Censorship and Internet Shutdowns During the January 2026 Protests
The Role of the Internet in Modern Civil Movements
The internet has become a vital tool for social and political activism worldwide. In Iran, activists and citizens rely heavily on social media platforms like Telegram, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to organize protests, share information, and document abuses.
During the 2026 protests, digital networks enabled rapid mobilization, allowing protesters to coordinate actions despite state repression. Videos and images circulated globally, garnering international attention and putting pressure on Iranian authorities.
However, this reliance on digital communication also made the regime vulnerable to control measures aimed at cutting off these channels, thereby curbing protest momentum and international awareness.
January 24, 2026 | 6:50 pm
