According to a recent report by the U.S.-based non-profit organization Freedom House, China ranks as the worst country for internet freedom. The organization’s 2024 Freedom on the Net (FOTN) report was released on Wednesday and evaluates internet freedom globally based on how easily people can access the internet, limitations on content, and violations of users’ rights.
With a score of just 9 out of a possible 100, China ties with Myanmar for the lowest ranking and the worst internet freedom environment in the world.
The report says China has continued trying to completely cut its domestic internet off from the rest of the global network. The Chinese government continues to block access to certain government websites from users outside the country. While meting out heavy fines to people who use virtual private networks, or VPNs. This has been ramped up over the last year. For example, it said that the Chinese government continues to crack down on online discussions and dissent. An example is the case of the death of activist and journalist Sun Lin, who died in police custody in November 2023 from the beatings he had received. Sun Lin reportedly had been punished for his online posts critical of the CCP and its leader Xi Jinping.
Meanwhile, Myanmar-embroiled in political turmoil since the 2021 military coup-also featured steep declines in internet freedom. The junta government has cracked down hard on online dissent. Sending thousands of people behind bars for speaking out against the regime. What’s more, the report notes that Myanmar has also introduced new technology to block VPNs. Cutting off a tool with which many circumvented censorship and surveillance.
Iceland ranked as the country with the best internet freedom. Zambia made the most significant improvement, while the FOTN report featured Chile and the Netherlands for the first time. Both countries showcased excellent protections for online human rights.
The Freedom House report also cited a disturbing global trend. For the 14th consecutive year, internet freedom declined in 27 of 72 studied countries. The decline indeed shows the growing concern over the restriction on the Internet, and censorship. And suppression of online freedoms has become a global menace.
In conclusion, this report emphasizes how the Internet. Once a hotbed of unparalleled opportunities for free expression, is now rapidly turning into a conduit to assist governments in controlling, and monitoring. And shutting those mouths that dare express dissent.
ANI
