Stories about Advocacy from July, 2019
What do Zimbabwe’s internet disruptions say about the state of digital rights in the country?
Government officials have repeatedly described access to social media as a potential threat, hinting that more disruptions would not be ruled out in the future.
How Nigeria uses the law to repress free speech: The case of journalist Jones Abiri
Draconian legislation often used to arbitrarily detain journalists and dissenting voices exemplifies the precarious state of press freedom and free speech in Nigeria.
Kremlin’s new law against ‘online disrespect’ proves hard to implement
The law allows courts to fine or jail people found guilty of making “insulting statements” towards the authorities online.
Chinese-Australian writer Yang Hengjun still detained by Beijing after six months
"Lawyers for Australian writer #YangHengjun, who has been detained in #China since January, are urging #Canberra to intervene."
Nigerian students face cybercrime charges for criticising their university online
A former staff member described Madonna University as a ''death trap''.
“A dangerous trend”: Pakistani journalists critical of the government and military targeted in Twitter campaign
As if threats from the authorities against press freedom in Pakistan were not enough, online nationalist vigilantes are also on the pry against journalists.
Post-election crackdown in Mauritania: Internet shutdown lifted, journalist remains in detention
Despite ending a 10-day internet shutdown, the government continues to restrict press freedom and freedom of expression as part of its post-election crackdown.
China’s censored histories: The struggle to carry memories of the Tiananmen Massacre into the future
Chinese internet users circumvent censorship on 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre with artworks, music and memes.
Iran’s Draft Data Protection Act: Too little but not too late
While lawmakers wait to ratify the Draft Act, they must pay heed to international digital rights standards in the new Draft Law for the Personal Data Protection and Safeguarding
Interview with former Pakistani president taken off air, journalists and activists decry censorship
A recorded interview of former president Asif Ali Zardari was taken off air shortly after its broadcast began on Geo News television in another incident of censorship in the country.