In recent years, Myanmar’s digital landscape has become a battlefield where control over information wields immense power. Since the military coup in 2021, the ruling junta has intensified its efforts to stifle the nation’s digital oxygen, imposing internet blackouts and tightening the grip on communication channels. This isn’t a new phenomenon; historically, the country’s authorities have wielded internet restrictions during pivotal moments of dissent, like in 2007 and 2019.

These digital draconian measures are not merely administrative acts but are tools of oppression aimed at dismantling opposition and silencing the people’s voice. Under the guise of cybersecurity, legal constraints have been imposed, severely curtailing free access to information and hindering resistance movements across the most affected regions, such as Rakhine and Chin states. This raises the fundamental question of whether the junta is progressively losing control and resorts to these extremes as a desperate measure.

In this article, we delve into the layers of digital oppression that have emerged in Myanmar—from the historical context of internet blackouts to the latest cybersecurity laws throttling civilian freedoms. We also explore the international community’s response, the role of telecommunication monopolies, and the persistent efforts by civil society to fight back. Through examining these elements, we will understand how the digital domain remains a crucial frontier in the struggle for control and freedom in Myanmar.

Historical Context of Internet Blackouts

Internet blackouts in Myanmar have long been a tool wielded by the military junta to suppress dissent and control the flow of information among its citizens. These blackouts are a manifestation of the government’s apprehension toward public organization and freedom of expression, which digital communication inherently promotes. The tactic dates back to at least 2007, illustrating a history of state-imposed information restrictions to stifle democratic resistance and thwart the dissemination of opposition narratives. Following the military coup in 2021, such tactics were pivotally intensified, reflecting the regime’s growing anxiety about losing grasp over its repressive apparatus as citizens increasingly utilized internet access to mobilize against military rule. By cutting off internet services, particularly during peak times of protest organization, the military seeks to dismantle communication networks and inhibit the coordination of resistance, underscoring their desperation to maintain an iron grip on power amidst eroding legitimacy.

Early Instances of Control

The entwined history of Myanmar’s internet restrictions and military governance traces back to the 2007 Saffron Revolution, where the government executed one of its first significant internet shutdowns. This was a calculated move to muzzle dissent and control the narrative emanating from the protests. During this time, internet cafes served as primary hubs for the public to access online spheres, often using proxy servers to circumvent stringent government censorship. Even as technological accessibility attempted to burgeon post-2010, with democratization attempts and the relaxation of some controls, the military reserved its authority to enact blackouts to stifle dissent.

Established in 2013, Myanmar’s Telecommunications Law has empowered the state with the legal foundation to curtail online freedoms, perpetuating an environment where internet penetration is at odds with oppressive government oversight. Leading up to the severe internet restrictions in the wake of the 2021 coup, this legal framework enabled successive administrations to flip the digital switch as a mechanism of maintaining control and preventing any form of organized challenge against authority, highlighting an ongoing struggle between increased access and persistent censorship.

Blackouts in 2007 and 2019

Examining specific instances of internet blackouts, Myanmar’s 2007 tactical shutdown during the Saffron Revolution set a precedent for state control over digital channels amid uprisings. In 2007, widespread protests led by monks spurred the junta to limit internet connectivity sharply, aiming to stifle activists’ ability to broadcast the movement to both local and global audiences. This early case of digital disruption cast a long shadow over future instances of internet censorship.

Fast forward to 2019, the junta revisited similar strategies with internet blackouts targeting regions such as the Rakhine and Chin States, amid escalating conflict and ethnic violence. These blackouts not only impaired the daily lives and operations of millions but also obstructed the flow of real-time information regarding human rights abuses, distancing global witnesses from unfolding atrocities. This pattern of opportunistic and selective shutdowns underscores a legacy of control-driven governance that leverages technological incapacitation to mitigate perceived threats to military dominance.

What emerges from these historical snapshots is a narrative consistently defined by authority prioritizing control over connection, revealing a reactive stance by Myanmar’s junta. By switching off the populace’s tools for organization, these actions suggest a regime acutely conscious of its weakening control, resorting to blackout tactics in the face of ever-evolving challenges to its authority. Through internet restrictions, the military implicitly acknowledges both the organizational power of digital connectivity and its own vulnerability should that power be fully unleashed by a populace striving for democratic freedom.

Internet Blackouts Post-2021 Coup

Following the military coup on February 1, 2021, Myanmar’s junta has consistently employed internet shutdowns as a formidable weapon against civil resistance. These shutdowns are not arbitrary; they function strategically to curtail freedom of expression and restrict community safety, aiming to dismantle the very fabric of organized dissent. The total local shutdown of internet services on March 15, 2021, heralded a dark era for connectivity across the country. This decisive move echoed longstanding oppressive measures previously utilized against conflict zones, such as Rakhine and Chin States. By implementing a series of actions ranging from complete blackouts, speed restrictions, and even increases in internet taxes, the junta seemingly aims to progressively erode the spirit of defiance within the populace. One may argue that these draconian tactics indicate a government striving to retain control — tightening its grasp as resistance grows ever more organized and vocal.

Areas Most Affected: Rakhine and Chin States

Rakhine and Chin States have endured some of the most significant impacts from the junta’s internet shutdowns, affecting nearly one million residents. This deprivation of connectivity comes amid rampant conflict and military operations throughout these regions. The internet blackouts have occurred across nine townships within these states, amid a backdrop of escalating violence and a surge in the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Within these areas, the military’s strategic use of internet blockages acts as both a tool of warfare and a mechanism of control, suppressing civilian populations and halting the flow of information. Isolating these communities from global communication networks not only obstructs access to vital information but also shields ongoing human rights abuses from international scrutiny. In essence, the internet shutdowns are a deliberate attempt to confine these regions, amplifying their vulnerability as they grapple with the dual threats of military action and disconnect from the world at large.

Impact on Information Flow and Resistance Efforts

The severe internet blackouts in Myanmar post-coup have had profound implications on the flow of information and the momentum of resistance efforts. These blackouts, implemented no fewer than 85 times over the past year, represent a strategic move by the military junta to stifle the transmission of information and isolate areas under resistance control from both national and international oversight.

One of the core impacts is the significant disruption to civil resistance efforts and protests. The blackout prevents these groups from organizing effectively, diminishing their communication capabilities and impact. Moreover, in regions under the control of anti-junta factions, the shutdowns have obstructed the dissemination of crucial updates on military activities, leaving communities susceptible to sudden military offensives and airstrikes.

Yet, the resistance is not without resilience. Some groups, notably media organizations, have turned to expensive yet vital alternatives such as satellite internet services like Starlink. These measures, although resource-intensive, enable persistent communication amidst blackout conditions. This adaptation underscores a broader trend of digital repression by authoritarian regimes worldwide, spotlighting the lengths to which oppressive governments will go to control narratives and suppress dissent within conflict zones.

Cybersecurity Laws and Their Implications

Myanmar’s enactment and proposal of stringent cybersecurity laws represent a significant escalation in their control over digital spaces. These laws, designed ostensibly to protect national security, serve more to cement the military junta’s grip on power by suppressing dissent and controlling the flow of information. The legislation allows the regime to ban VPNs, penalize the access of unauthorized sites, and enforce retention of user data within Myanmar. Critics argue that these moves betray an intent to surveil and stifle the freedoms of expression fundamental to digital democracy, aligning with the junta’s broader efforts to maintain their precarious hold on power. The implications of these laws extend well beyond mere legalities, reaching into the core of human rights debates concerning privacy and the rights of individuals to freely express themselves in the digital age.

Legal Measures to Suppress Internet Freedom

In the wake of the military coup on February 1, 2021, Myanmar’s junta rapidly moved to assert control over the internet, a critical tool for public mobilization and communication. Through legal measures, they orchestrated internet shutdowns and instituted a cybersecurity law that directly bans the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and mandates incarceration and fines for unauthorized online behaviors. This draconian regulation aligns with the military’s agenda to restrict civilian access to unfiltered information and safeguard their own narratives. A report by Freedom on the Net scored Myanmar a dismal 17 out of 100 for internet freedom, reflecting accelerated regression over recent years due to these heavy-handed laws. Furthermore, by compelling telecom companies to enforce these internet restrictions, the junta not only cripples the rights of people to freely communicate but also insulates themselves from critique and organized opposition, arguably illustrating their fear of losing control over the populace.

Effects on Civilian Access to Information

The military coup d’état in 2021 marked the beginning of persistent internet shutdowns in Myanmar. These blackouts, often occurring at night, have severely disrupted civilian life by hindering communication and access to information. For displaced communities, in particular, the loss of online connectivity isolates them further, depriving them of updates regarding military actions and vital security alerts. The ban on VPNs adds another layer of restriction by limiting access to social media, financial services, and international news fronts, effectively rendering civilians more vulnerable to misinformation and cybercrime as they struggle for connectivity. Resistance forces have, however, attempted to circumvent these restrictions using Starlink, a satellite-based internet service. Yet, accessing Starlink within Myanmar remains fraught with challenges, both logistical and financial. Furthermore, these shutdowns have hampered the operations of media outlets, notably affecting the flow of information in regions like Rakhine State, leaving civilians without reliable news services. As the junta continues to employ these tactics, it raises the question of whether such stringent measures are the desperation of a regime losing its grip on an increasingly emboldened populace.

International Community’s Response

Since the military coup in Myanmar, the international community has been vocal in its criticism of the junta’s oppressive actions, particularly the systematic internet shutdowns. Organizations like Access Now have highlighted the detrimental effects these shutdowns have on society, stressing that they destabilize already fragile contexts and undermine digital progress. Additionally, civil society groups have called for a global arms embargo, urging the United Nations Security Council to prevent the junta from accessing equipment that could amplify their repressive strategies. Some UN member states, led by France, Greece, and Lithuania, have condemned these shutdowns, reiterating the critical importance of information access. Such international pressure underscores the collective recognition that depriving citizens of digital communication avenues is not just a regional but a global issue impacting fundamental human rights.

Reaction to the Coup’s Internet Restrictions

The February 2021 coup saw Myanmar’s military junta unleash a series of strategic internet shutdowns designed to suppress resistance and silence dissent. The military government resorted to these drastic measures, including a nationwide blackout on the very day of the coup, to curb the organizing capacity of peaceful protesters and the general populace. These actions have persisted with targeted blackouts in regions known for resistance, such as Sagaing and Chin, crippling primary communication channels for opposition groups. The lack of connectivity not only stifles freedom of expression but also magnifies the broader trend of digital authoritarianism observed in Myanmar and globally. The UN reported internet shutdowns across 31 townships since August 2021, evidencing the junta’s desperate attempts to cling to power through oppressive means.

The Role of Global Organizations and Governments

Global organizations and various governments have been called upon to take collaborative actions against Myanmar’s military junta. The focus remains on tackling the intertwined issues of political instability and human rights violations witnessed within the country. Access Now has been at the forefront, highlighting concerns about international telecommunications companies like Telenor, emphasizing the human rights implications of their operations in Myanmar. Several civil society organizations have also targeted these global entities, filing a complaint with the OECD’s Norwegian National Contact Point, urging adherence to international sanctions. These steps are critical as Myanmar’s rampant internet shutdowns not only embolden human rights abuses but also signal a proliferation of digital authoritarianism throughout Asia. In the Asia-Pacific region, Myanmar has recorded one of the highest numbers of internet shutdowns, thereby illustrating the urgency for international intervention to restore connectivity and uphold basic human rights.

Tools for Circumventing Restrictions

In Myanmar, the junta’s attempts to stifle dissent by shutting off the internet have been met with remarkable resilience among the population. Despite severe digital repression, citizens have creatively circumvented government-imposed restrictions and shutdowns, maintaining connectivity through alternative means. Among these methods, the use of satellite internet has emerged as a powerful tool, allowing for crucial communication channels to remain open. Communities have also utilized Wi-Fi hotspots and radio signals to ensure information continues to flow, particularly in areas controlled by resistance groups. Additionally, internet cafés, some even cleverly hidden in bomb shelters, provide sporadic connections, serving as lifelines amidst attempts at enforced digital isolation. These acts of defiance not only highlight the determination of the Burmese people but also underscore the vital role of internet and communication tools in their ongoing struggle against the junta’s oppression.

Usage of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become indispensable in Myanmar, providing a gateway to unrestricted online content. Despite the military junta’s ban on VPNs as part of its cybersecurity law, civilians and anti-regime groups continue to rely on these tools to bypass government censorship. The ban aims to suppress digital resistance, extending even to Myanmar nationals abroad. However, the clandestine usage of VPNs enables access to blocked social media platforms and informative websites, which the junta prefers to keep out of public reach.

The consequences for unauthorized VPN usage are severe, with individuals facing up to six months of imprisonment and fines. Despite these harsh penalties, the resolve of the Burmese people to maintain access to information has not wavered. VPNs help circumvent the regime’s oppressive measures, allowing citizens to connect with the broader world, share their experiences, and garner international support.

However, while VPNs are crucial, they introduce notable latency to internet connections. This delay further complicates communication, exacerbating the challenges faced by the population. Yet, as long as the junta continues its attempts to crush the spirit of the people through censorship, VPNs will remain an essential part of Myanmar’s digital resistance toolkit.

Limitations: Slow Speeds and Blockades

Myanmar’s internet landscape has been severely affected by the junta’s systematic shutdowns and imposed speed reductions, hindering online activities such as video posting and streaming. Following these shutdowns, the country experiences significant throttling of mobile data, leaving users struggling with slow speeds. Internet connectivity metrics, such as average ping response times, consistently reflect poor performance, signaling the junta’s intent to suppress digital communication and dissent.

Despite the extension of these internet shutdowns, the restoration of normal service seems unlikely in the near future. The resulting sharp declines in internet traffic further highlight the impact of the government’s actions. Although fiber optic and fixed cable internet connections remain largely unaffected during shutdowns, their accessibility is limited to a minority. For the majority of Myanmar’s population relying on mobile internet access, the slow speeds and blockades represent another oppressive tool wielded by the junta to maintain control. The relentless fight for unrestricted access continues, emphasizing the resilience and determination of the Burmese people against these oppressive measures.

Role of Telecommunications Monopolies

The influence of telecommunications monopolies in Myanmar has come under intense scrutiny, particularly in the wake of the military coup in 2021. A central player, Mytel, connected to Myanmar’s military since its establishment in 2017, exemplifies the deep intertwining of business and military interests. Though initially successful, the public quickly turned against Mytel following the coup, boycotting military-owned entities, resulting in significant financial blows and a reduction in its customer base. The company’s ties to the military bred distrust among citizens, overshadowing its offerings like low-cost SIM cards and access to banned sites. This dynamic illustrates how essential telecommunications players have become not just corporate entities but pivotal actors in a nation’s political and human rights landscape.

Influence on Connectivity and Access

Since the military coup in 2021, internet access in Myanmar has become a strategic tool for the junta to enforce control. Systematic shutdowns, such as the complete blackout from March 15 to March 18, 2021, reveal the junta’s desperation to quell dissent and prevent organized resistance. Laws and regulations, such as the 2013 Telecommunications Law, have been exploited to disrupt digital communication’s free flow, significantly affecting essential sectors like politics and healthcare. Despite these constraints, internet penetration has grown, further challenging the military’s efforts to maintain a tight grip. International organizations, including Access Now, have persistently called on the military to restore full internet access, but the treatment of internet connectivity as a weapon underscores the junta’s fear of losing control over a mobilized and informed populace.

Business Interests versus Human Rights

In Myanmar, the intersection of business interests and human rights has become increasingly contentious, particularly within the telecommunications sector. Telenor, a Norwegian telecommunications giant, faced significant moral dilemmas and international scrutiny over its operations in the country. Pressured to install interception equipment for military authorities, Telenor’s activities clashed with Norwegian and EU sanctions, creating a challenging ethical landscape. To honor the principles of the OECD Guidelines and the UN’s Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, Telenor contemplated exiting the market, a move that sparked further controversy due to its potential sale to M1 Group, a buyer with a questionable human rights record.

Human rights organizations urged Telenor to conduct thorough due diligence on the implications of its business decisions. The fear that such transactions could further erode the rights of Myanmar’s citizens was palpable. A complaint filed by 474 Myanmar-based civil society organizations against Telenor underscored this point, highlighting the broader ramifications of intertwining military objectives with business operations. The situation in Myanmar brings to light the ethical responsibilities corporations face when operating in politically volatile regions and the importance of prioritizing human rights over profit.

Civil Society and Advocacy for Change

Myanmar’s political landscape drastically shifted following the February 2021 military coup, with internet shutdowns becoming a notorious tool used by the junta to control and oppress. In the chaotic aftermath, civil society organizations across the globe have stepped into the fray. A significant alliance of 168 organizations, including Access Now, has focused its efforts on the Norwegian government, particularly its role in overseeing Telenor Myanmar’s compliance with human rights standards. These groups have also garnered support from various UN member nations, denouncing the internet shutdowns and spotlighting the exacerbated threats to journalists, media workers, and human rights defenders. Their unified stance aims to hold stakeholders accountable, emphasizing Norway’s pivotal role due to its majority share in Telenor Group, and urging the Norwegian state to adopt responsible business practices that bolster human rights.

Efforts by Local and International NGOs

Local and international NGOs have remained at the forefront of advocating against the Myanmar military’s oppressive actions. Organizations like Access Now have forged robust partnerships with both local communities and international actors to vigilantly monitor and confirm ongoing internet disruptions in Myanmar. Declaring the junta as egregious violators of internet freedom, these groups seek to expose the regime’s repressive tactics. Access Now highlights how digital connectivity serves as a critical lifeline for the citizens of Myanmar, framing it as an essential tool in their collective struggle against authoritarianism. They emphasize that facilitating open lines of digital communication can significantly empower local communities to organize and resist the regime’s tyranny.

The international response, fueled by the advocacy of organizations such as Access Now, advocates for targeted sanctions against the Myanmar military to impede its oppressive digital measures. They propose capacity-building initiatives that equip local actors to defend digital freedoms effectively. In light of increasing restrictions, Access Now has urged telecom and ICT firms to commit to transparency about government directives regarding censorship and shutdowns. This push for accountability from corporate entities reflects a broader strategy of undermining the junta’s stranglehold on information flow.

Calls for Action and Policy Recommendations

In the face of Myanmar’s escalating censorship activities, a clarion call for swift international action has sounded across global platforms. Organizations like Access Now and an array of civil society groups compel the global community to denounce the Myanmar military’s exploitative use of internet shutdowns. Such tactics serve as instruments of oppression and control, especially significant after the destabilizing military coup of 2021. Integral to these calls is an urgent appeal for an immediate and coordinated arms embargo, aiming to restrict the military’s access to resources that could heighten civilian oppression.

Policy recommendations from these advocates underscore the necessity of addressing the dire humanitarian impacts wrought by internet and communication blackouts. They also stress the profound importance of proactive global engagement to counteract Myanmar’s stifling censorship. The junta’s continuous actions, including disrupting internet services and proliferating harmful content on social media, demand rigorous global policy interventions aimed at protecting the basic freedoms of Myanmar’s people. A cornerstone of these recommendations is the safeguarding of digital rights and ensuring that access to unbiased, non-discriminatory information remains unimpeded amidst the junta’s oppressive measures. The world’s response to these human rights abuses will be crucial in shaping Myanmar’s path toward freedom and democracy.