Iranians faced a severe digital blackout following nationwide protests, which serves as a warning about the potential for similar tactics in other countries, particularly in Europe.
In a recent opinion piece in Dagens Nyheter, Mani Mostofi and Fereidoon Bashar, leaders of two international organizations advocating for a free internet, highlight the dire implications of the Iranian regime's response to public protests. On January 8, 2026, when millions of Iranians took to the streets to voice their dissent, the Iranian government implemented a near-total internet shutdown. This blackout disrupted both international and national connectivity, cut off mobile networks, and crippled landline services, effectively isolating the populace from the outside world.
The authors argue that Iran's actions are not an isolated case but indicative of a growing trend where governments may resort to similar tactics during civil unrest. The implications extend beyond Iranian borders, posing a tangible threat to European nations and others facing dissent within their populations. The call to action is clear: these events should serve as a wake-up call for countries across the globe to safeguard their digital infrastructures and protect civil liberties.
Mostofi and Bashar urge an examination of the tools utilized by authoritarian regimes to suppress dissent, emphasizing the need for a concerted international effort to promote freedom of expression and maintain open internet access. Their message underscores the importance of solidarity in the face of such government actions, urging that the fight for a free internet is imperative not just for Iranians but for all who value democratic freedoms.
