Stories about Middle East & North Africa from March, 2014
“Click Rights” Campaign for Digital Rights in Middle East and North Africa
The IGMENA campaign “Click Rights” aims to bring more awareness of digital rights to citizens, so they in turn can pressure governments and the private sector to uphold them.
Netizen Report: Egyptian Activists To Be Tried Under Anti-Protest Law
This week, we look at Gambia's 48-hour Internet blackout, the ongoing assault on Twitter in Turkey, and the approval of landmark Internet legislation in brazil.
Egyptian Blogger Alaa Abd El Fattah Released on Bail
Celebrations continue as prominent Egyptian blogger Alaa Abdel Fattah is released from jail. In his first tweet after his release, the activist vows to "continue" the struggle.
Erdogan Vows to ‘Wipe Out’ Twitter in Turkey
Turkey blocked Twitter last week – along with Google's public DNS service, used to circumvent the block. Nevertheless, Tweets out of Turkey appear to be on the rise.
As Elections Approach, Denial Runs Deep for Erdogan
Turkey's Prime Minister is calling for democratic elections in a democratic state. Meanwhile, media outlets are under attack, Twitter is blocked, and protester oppression is at an all-time high.
Algerian Opposition TV Network Shut Down Ahead of Presidential Elections
Amidst escalating protests, independent television network Al-Atlas TV was shut down by Algerian authorities, who raided the network's offices and seized computers and recording equipment.
The Iran Expert May Not Exist, But the Persian Blogosphere Does
Understanding the Internet in Iran isn’t easy. A new study illuminates trends in the Persian blogosphere since 2008, providing a helpful tool in understanding broader social shifts both on and offline.
#FreeBassel: Behind the Screens of the Syrian Resistance
March 15 marks the second anniversary of the imprisonment of Syrian web developer and activist Bassel Khartabil. Monique Doppert reflects on her friendship with Bassel and forthcoming book on his story.
Netizen Report: Leaders at Odds Over Social Media in Turkey
This week, we look at allegations of public funding for Italian surveillance tech company Hacking Team, network interference in the Ukraine, and Facebook's likely new toy (drones!)
100 Days in Prison Without Trial: The Story of Alaa Abd El Fattah
Prominent Egyptian blogger Alaa Abd El Fattah completed his 100th day in prison without trial yesterday. Watch this video to learn about his case.
