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.
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