Censorship and Internet Shutdowns During the January 2026 Protests

Impact on Citizens and Journalists

Citizens

The censorship and shutdowns created a chilling effect, deterring many from participating in protests due to fear of arrest or violence. Those who attempted to communicate faced risks of surveillance, hacking, and detention.

Journalists and Media

State-controlled outlets promoted narratives favoring government actions, while independent journalists and international media faced restrictions and threats. Many journalists faced harassment, detention, or exile, restricting independent reporting.

Personal Stories

Numerous accounts emerged of activists using VPNs, proxy servers, and satellite internet to bypass censorship, risking their safety to report on the protests and document human rights abuses.