Global Internet Shutdowns Reached Record High in 2024, Driven by Conflicts

A report by Access Now documents 296 shutdowns across 54 countries, with Myanmar leading as the worst offender for the first time since 2018.

The number of internet shutdowns globally increased from 283 in 2023 to 296 in 2024, spanning 54 countries, according to Access Now's report.
Myanmar imposed the highest number of shutdowns in 2024 with 85 incidents, surpassing India, which recorded 84 shutdowns after leading the list since 2018.
Conflicts, including wars in Gaza, Ukraine, and Myanmar, were the primary cause of internet shutdowns, accounting for 103 disruptions in 11 countries.
Cross-border shutdowns rose significantly, with actions by Russia in Ukraine, Israel in Gaza, and Thailand and China in Myanmar affecting connectivity beyond national borders.
Protests, elections, and measures to prevent exam cheating were also major drivers of shutdowns, with India seeing 41 disruptions tied to protests and communal violence.