Stories about TOPICS from February, 2024
Silenced voices: The X and VPN ban after Pakistan’s elections
During the political uncertainty following the elections, the voices of Pakistani citizens have been stifled through Twitter and VPN bans.
New domestic security law may affect regular news reporting, says Hong Kong press group
The Journalist Association recommended the authorities to narrow the definition of offences by proving the intention of the offenders to undermine national security and that their acts cause actual damages.
The role of youth in championing digital literacy education in Timor-Leste
"Digital rights education is essential in Timor-Leste to empower individuals to protect their privacy, promote freedom of expression, and foster digital inclusion."
Digital surveillance and the specter of AI in Mexico
As the first recorded government client and most prolific user of the Pegasus spyware, Mexico has accumulated over USD 80 million in the technology since 2011.
‘Dirty Vote’ documentary on alleged election fraud goes viral in Indonesia
The documentary suggested Indonesia's current president, Joko Widodo (nicknamed "Jokowi") used his position to support the candidacy of his defense minister, Prabowo Subianto, who has sparked countless human rights concerns.
#KeepItOn in times of war: Sudan’s communications shutdown must be reversed urgently
A statement urging an end to internet shutdowns in Sudan. These shutdowns violate international law, exacerbating humanitarian crises, hindering emergency assistance, and impeding communication with loved ones.
Yang Hengjun's death sentence jolts improving relations between Australia and China
"Something worth noting (and may not be readily apparent): Yang Hengjun is an Australian citizen. But to the Chinese government, he's Chinese."
Pakistan’s general elections: AI, internet shutdowns and disillusionment
On top of disruptions to the internet, Pakistani political parties have also been using emerging technologies, particularly generative AI and deep fake videos, to influence voter narratives and perceptions.
The Baku Connection: Journalists across the world unite to support Azerbaijan's Abzas Media
Some 40 journalists from 15 media outlets have joined the project since its launch as Abzas Media team who started the investigations, await trial in Baku.
The Suriname book prohibition in a global context of free expression
Suriname's book ban on corruption exposure is more than a local issue; it's a global wake-up call for the defence of free speech and press freedom against authoritarianism.
Hong Kong’s homegrown security law seeks to define ‘state secrets’ along China’s legislative line
The definition of state secrets covers secrets in major policy decisions, military, foreign affairs, economic and social development, technological and scientific development, national security operations, HK and China relation.
