The Global Network Initiative (GNI) expresses deep concern about the network disruption in Uganda that coincided with the country’s general elections in January 2026, and calls on the Government of Uganda to restore and maintain full connectivity.
GNI and its members have long highlighted that network shutdowns carry severe human rights, safety, and economic consequences. As we set out in our Network Disruptions one-pager and other relevant resources, including reports focused on Africa, and as others have also explained in various statements, reports, and UN resolutions, network disruptions can have deep and disproportionate impacts on a variety of human rights and their consequences are often more acute in conflict scenarios.
In light of these developments in Uganda, GNI calls on the Government of Uganda to restore full internet connectivity, including access to social media platforms and communication services, and ensure that any future restrictions on internet connectivity fully comply with international human rights standards, are subject to independent oversight, and are necessary, proportionate, and time-bound.
About GNI
As a multistakeholder organization comprising many of the world’s leading tech companies, academics, civil society organizations, and investors, GNI works to protect and advance freedom of expression and privacy rights in the technology ecosystem. Based on the diverse experiences and expertise of our membership, our approach generates collaboration towards a more rights-respecting legal environment for technology users around the world.