The #KeepItOn coalition urges South Sudan to end social media shutdowns enacted to control protests, arguing these restrictions violate human rights and hinder access to essential information. The telecom companies must resist unjust governmental directives and reaffirm their commitment to human rights standards.
The KeepItOn coalition, comprising over 334 human rights organizations worldwide, has urgently appealed to the South Sudanese government to lift the ongoing social media shutdowns that are fundamentally infringing on human rights. This measure, initiated by the National Communication Authority on January 22, 2025, blocks social media for a maximum of 90 days, purportedly to prevent the sharing of graphic violence during protests against the Sudanese Armed Forces in neighboring Sudan.
The social media blackout comes amid escalating violence and protests in South Sudan, with officials imposing restrictions to manage public disorder. However, such sweeping actions not only violate free expression principles but also hinder critical access to healthcare and vital life-saving information. Historically, the South Sudanese government has restricted digital communications in similar crises, raising alarms over its impact on human rights accountability.
The coalition calls for the immediate restoration of social media access in South Sudan, emphasizing that such communication channels are essential for public safety and rights protection. The telecom companies operating within the region must also act against illegal government directives, highlighting their responsibility to ensure human rights compliance. Ongoing monitoring and cooperation with civil societies are critical to prevent misinformation and oppressive practices.
Original Source: www.accessnow.org
