GNI Concerned About Internet Slowdowns After Ankara Tragedy
Internet slowdowns have been reported in Turkey following previous terrorist attacks, including in February 2016 and October 2015. Interfering with Internet services chills free expression, separates people from family members, and restricts access to vital information.
“While Internet service in Turkey appears to have been returned to normal, governments should refrain from compromising – even temporarily – the basic right of people to express themselves and access information online,” said GNI Board Chair Mark Stephens, CBE. “Cutting citizens off from communication and information in times of crisis undermines human rights and is counterproductive to both personal and economic security.”
The GNI urges the Turkish government to adhere to its international human rights commitments and to ensure that any restrictions on freedom of expression meet the thresholds of legality, necessity, and proportionality set out in Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
The GNI has previously expressed concern about what appears to be a trend of government interference with Internet and communications platforms during times of crisis or political dissent, including in Egypt, Uganda, Tajikistan, Iraq, and Syria.
ABOUT THE GLOBAL NETWORK INITIATIVE
The Global Network Initiative (GNI) was launched in 2008. Our mission is to protect and advance freedom of expression and privacy rights in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector by setting a global standard for responsible decision making and serving as a multistakeholder voice in the face of government restrictions and demands. GNI members include ICT companies, civil society organizations (including human rights and press freedom groups), academics and academic institutions, and investors from around the world. See the full list of GNI members and observers.
