Global Internet Disruptions Reached a Peak in 2024, Affecting Countries Worldwide

In the year 2024, the global landscape was marked by a significant number of internet shutdowns, with a total cost estimated at US$7.69 billion, according to digital privacy firm Top10VPN. This alarming trend affected individual safety, access to essential services, and economic activity, as well as deterring investment, affecting telecom revenues, and harming tourism.

The countries with the most internet shutdowns were Pakistan, Iraq, Senegal, Guinea-Conakry, and Gabon. Pakistan experienced significant outages, including a large network outage in August 2025, while Iraq and other African nations also faced restrictions on major social media and messaging platforms.

Russia, with its 13 shutdowns, saw an increase from the previous year, joining Myanmar, India, and Pakistan, which accounted for almost 70% of all recorded shutdowns. Protests against undemocratic policies, economic hardships, and corruption led to 74 shutdowns in 24 countries.

Notably, authorities in Mozambique shut down the internet following post-election anti-government protests, while in Kenya, access to Telegram was blocked for three weeks during national secondary school exams. Azerbaijan imposed a shutdown during its February 2024 elections, targeting areas where polling stations were located.

Conflict was the main reason for 103 shutdowns in 11 countries, with Ukraine having 7 shutdowns linked to the ongoing conflict with Russia. The Facebook block in Uganda, implemented during elections in 2021, remained in place throughout 2024.

The consequences of these shutdowns were far-reaching. They hindered remote work, education, and innovation, causing financial losses and long-term economic damage. Businesses, e-commerce, and financial services were disrupted, leading to sales losses and reduced productivity.

Digital rights groups expect more internet shutdowns in 2025, underscoring the urgent need for governments to respect internet freedom and protect the digital rights of their citizens. As we move forward, it is crucial to remember that the internet is not just a tool for communication, but a vital lifeline for millions around the world.

Global Internet Disruptions Reached a Peak in 2024, Affecting Countries Worldwide