Resilience Technologies, a digital security organisation dedicated to developing and providing sturdy, innovative digital security solutions and services to civil society and at-risk communities in Africa, strongly condemns the recent internet shutdown imposed by authorities in Senegal.
As we celebrate Global Safer Internet Day, we stand in solidarity with the people of Senegal who cannot access the internet and we affirm our commitment to defending the front lines defenders of Africa’s fight for civil liberties and the realisation of a free society.
We join voices with Civil Society Organisations across the world who have tirelessly insisted that internet shutdowns are a gross violation of fundamental rights such as the freedom of expression and access to information. However, in addition to these, internet shutdowns present even more far-reaching implications for the online safety of citizens as they pose significant digital security risks to citizens, CSOs, and at-risk communities.
Without access to secure communication channels and reliable information sources, citizens and civil society organisations are left vulnerable to exploitation by malicious actors. Especially in light of the impending elections, the repercussions of internet shutdowns are particularly concerning as individuals and organisations are forced to resort to alternative and often insecure means of communication, such as unencrypted messaging apps or face-to-face meetings, which can be intercepted or surveilled by state or non-state actors. This vulnerability not only compromises the privacy and security of sensitive information but also undermines the integrity of the electoral process by impeding the free flow of information and hindering transparency
We, therefore, call upon the government of Senegal to immediately restore full access to the Internet and to uphold their obligations to protect the people of Senegal.
Resilience Technologies remains steadfast in our mission to enhance and foster the creation of a safer digital space for African civil society organisations and institutions to thrive in their work.