Internet blackout in Equatorial Guinea and social media bans in Venezuela

Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast

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Internet blackout in Equatorial Guinea and social media bans in Venezuela

Internet access has been cut off in Equatorial Guinea, specifically in the Annobón province. Residents have been protesting against the government's environmental and human rights violations on the island. Digital rights advocates are urging the government to restore internet services. Our editor Ania Lichtarowicz, has the details.

Meanwhile, connectivity issues are also affecting Venezuela. NetBlocks reports that X (formerly known as Twitter) is facing restrictions as the disputed President Maduro has ordered a ten-day ban on the platform, alleging it incites civil unrest. Additionally, the messaging app Signal seems to be partially restricted. Drones patrolling citizens’ activities have been reported alongside other digital methods of limiting information access. Sixty-two media outlets have also been blocked. Marianne Díaz Hernández, a #WhyID Campaigner at Access Now is on the show.

The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ghislaine Boddington.

More on this week's stories:

Authorities in Equatorial Guinea must end internet shutdown and other human rights abuses

Open letter on technology-enabled political violence in Venezuela

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Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz

Production Manager: Liz Tuohy

Recording and audio editing : Lansons | Team Farner

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