Overview

• 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.