Internet Blackouts Are Becoming More Common Around The World

A report by Access Now highlights nearly 200 Internet shutdowns in 2018, mainly in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. These shutdowns, often in response to anti-government protests, hinder organization and protest efforts. In Kashmir, India imposed a prolonged Internet blackout following the revocation of the region's autonomy, marking the longest such blackout in a democracy. UN rapporteur David Kaye criticized these actions as collective punishment. Recently, India also cut Internet services in response to protests against a new citizenship law, with no clear timeline for restoration.

Which regions experienced the majority of Internet shutdowns in 2018 according to the report?

• Europe and North America

• Central America and the Caribbean

• Asia, Africa, and the Middle East

• South America and Australia

What is one of the main challenges caused by Internet blackouts as mentioned by David Kaye?

• Increased government surveillance

• Difficulty in organizing and protesting

• Higher Internet costs

• Improved government communication

How long did the Internet blackout in Kashmir last, making it the longest in a democracy?

• Over 100 days

• Over 200 days

• Over 140 days

• Over 180 days

What term did David Kaye use to describe the communication restrictions in Kashmir?

• A collective punishment

• A necessary security measure

• A justified action

• A temporary inconvenience

What was the reason for Internet services being cut off in other parts of India recently?

• International sanctions

• Natural disasters

• Protests against a new citizenship law

• Technical failures