The National Communications Authority of South Sudan ordered a ban on TikTok and Facebook to prevent the spread of graphic content. The Internet Society South Sudan Chapter quickly mobilized to lift the ban, emphasizing potential negative impacts on communications and the economy. The ban was lifted within six days due to their advocacy, demonstrating the importance of digital freedoms.
On January 22, 2025, the National Communications Authority of the Republic of South Sudan mandated that Internet Service Providers (ISPs) block TikTok and Facebook for a minimum of 30 days due to concerns over the distribution of graphic content linked to violence in Sudan. This order raised significant concerns about the implications for communication and freedom of expression in South Sudan.
Recognizing the severe repercussions of this directive, the Internet Society South Sudan Chapter quickly responded. In a matter of hours, they issued a public statement urging the government to rescind the ban. They highlighted the detrimental effects this could have on communications, human rights, and the overall free flow of information.
To further amplify their concerns, the chapter appeared on a prominent breakfast show, ensuring widespread awareness of the issue. They delivered a copy of their statement to relevant governmental offices, including the Director General of the National Communication Authority and the Ministry of Information, Technology, Communication, and Postal Service.
By January 27, the efforts of the Internet Society South Sudan Chapter bore fruit. The National Communications Authority lifted the ban, largely incorporating the chapter’s objections within their announcement, marking a significant victory for advocacy.
During the six days the ban was enforced, many businesses in South Sudan suffered operational disruptions. Swangin Scopas from Zain, a leading mobile service provider, emphasized the importance of social media for real-time customer support and engagement, stating, “The shutdown cut off one of our key communication channels, which led to delayed responses and reduced interaction with our customers.”
The reliance on social media for promotional activities and customer engagement is prevalent among businesses in South Sudan. The mandatory blocking impeded their ability to market services effectively, diminishing sales and customer loyalty across various sectors. Scopas elaborated on the impact: “The block on social media prevented our teams from tracking what was being said about us online, and we were unable to respond to issues promptly.”
The South Sudan Chapter’s proactive stance was pivotal in minimizing the duration of the government-mandated social media ban. Internet disruptions, regardless of duration, pose threats to economic productivity by disrupting e-commerce and delaying financial transactions, ultimately leading to job losses.
Every disruption to Internet access carries significant ramifications for society and the economy. Even temporary social media restrictions can adversely affect small enterprises and large corporations alike. Gama noted, “Cutting access can be detrimental to an entire population’s health and well-being,” stressing the critical nature of social media in maintaining connections and access to information during crises.
In summary, the Internet Society South Sudan Chapter effectively mobilized to respond to the government’s order to block social media platforms. Their swift advocacy efforts resulted in the lifting of the ban within a week, mitigating negative ramifications for businesses dependent on digital communication. This episode highlights the essential role of civil advocacy in preserving digital freedoms and the economic significance of uninterrupted Internet access for society.
Original Source: www.internetsociety.org
