The Human Cost of Internet Shutdowns

Over the last decade, the frequency, severity, and duration of government-imposed internet shutdowns has been fast accelerating. Used to quash dissent and stifle democratic participation, shutdowns are a blunt tool that strip individuals of their human rights, and cause untold damage to economies, education, and healthcare. Recorded at the 2021 Oslo Freedom Forum, this episode outlines the tactics authoritarian regimes have used to impose internet shutdowns, and explores the many consequences they hold. Guests include Scott Carpenter, Director of Policy and International Engagement at Jigsaw; Justin Henck, Product Manager at Jigsaw; Vinicius Fortuna, Software Engineer Lead at Jigsaw; Felicia Anthonio, Campaigner and #KeepItOn Lead at Access Now; Roya Ensafi, Assistant Professor in Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Michigan; and Marianne Díaz Hernández, Venezuelan activist and #KeepItOn Fellow.

Om Podcasten

“Dissidents and Dictators” is a podcast dedicated to bringing listeners stories and analysis from those on the frontlines of the fight for democracy. Hosted by Casey Michel and Elisha Maldonado, the podcast features democracy campaigners, investigative journalists, artists, musicians, scholars, and many more targeted by authoritarian regimes around the world. Guests share their personal histories and how they’ve dedicated themselves to standing up to dictatorship. Mixing news, commentary, and humor, the podcast provides impactful, unflinching conversations from those who’ve sacrificed everything to spread democracy — and who want to share their story with the rest of us.