Stories from May, 2016
China’s Independent Journalists Face High Risks — And Are in High Demand
Outside the umbrella of the media institution, independent journalists face many risks, but their work is becoming increasingly influential in China's media ecology.
Ghanaian Minister Vows Not to Ban Whatsapp, Skype and Viber Calls
"Methinks the telcos need to smell the coffee because the traditional 'voice game' is over, and with it, the monopoly profits they used to make."
Venezuela: Research Confirms Censorship of News Platforms, Currency Websites
The study also confirmed that all local Internet service providers using DNS (domain name system) blocking, technique through which domain name servers respond incorrectly to requests for a particular domain.
The Iranian State Versus Kim Kardashian
The story is so absurd that it seems funny, at first glance. But the Iranian state's problems with Kim Kardashian are no laughing matter.
Netizen Report: Two of Egypt’s Leading Human Rights Defenders Face Legal Challenge
Social media is back on in Uganda, but off in Iraq; a new tool helps Russians make friends (and target victims); and @Verdade reveals that Mozambique is conducting mass surveillance.
Mexico Launches National Transparency Platform
Mexico has a new tool to combat the opacity of public servants and of those who govern. But its effectiveness in practice remains to be seen.
Ugandans Are Finally Back on Social Media After Days-Long Blackout
The Uganda Communications Commission ordered the sites blocked for "security reasons" ahead of President Yoweri Museveni's inauguration. Authorities also blocked access to social media during elections in February.
The Government of Mozambique is “Spying on its Citizens”, According to @Verdade
The order to intercept information was secured by military command between 2012-2014, and installed by the Chinese ZTE Corporation. Listening in on citizens is said to have begun in 2013.
Kenyan Blogger and Photographer Goes Missing
Before disappearing, he wrote on Facebook about how his arrest and 'terrorism suspect' label have destroyed his career and livelihood.
Chinese Censors Crack Down on ‘Illegal’ Live-Streaming, Including Erotic Banana Eating
As it is impossible to pre-screen live-streamed content, China's public security bureau has set up a police station at the office of major live-streaming platform to oversee what is broadcast.
