[Chapter-delegates] Internet Shutdown in Gaza

[Zaher Qassrawi]

Internet Shutdown in Gaza

 

Internet Society – PalestineChapter would like to draw your attention to the ongoing internet shutdown inGaza, regularly imposed by the Israeli government, and the profound effects itis having on the lives of the people in the region. It is time to highlightwhat the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, stated in March2023: that it is essential to reinforce universal access to the internet as ahuman right, and not just a privilege.

This internet shutdown has seriousimplications for basic human rights, safety, and the livelihoods of theresidents of Gaza. The decision to shut down the internet in Gaza has created asignificant disruption in the daily lives of the people living there. Theinternet is an essential tool for communication, especially in thesechallenging times, and for accessing vital information. With its suddenabsence, many aspects of daily life have been severely impacted during times ofconflict:

 

 1. Healthcare: In times of crisis, being online is ofparamount importance as it serves as a lifeline connecting individuals toessential services like healthcare and emergency response teams. Access to theinternet enables people to quickly reach out to medical professionals for vitalhealth advice, especially when seconds can make a difference in emergencies.Additionally, being online allows individuals to report their location,enabling ambulances and first responders to reach them swiftly, potentiallysaving lives. In situations where every moment counts, the internet serves as acrucial tool to bridge the gap between those in distress and the assistancethey urgently require. The internet shutdown has hindered access to medicaladvice and healthcare information, potentially putting lives at risk. Dr. DuaaAbu Shakra was a real-life example of such a need when she sent a message fromthe ruins of her destroyed house for help. This message allowed firstresponders to reach her and save her life along with her family.

 

 2. Communication: The ability to communicate with loved ones,access critical information, and maintain contact with the outside world is nowseverely limited. Families are struggling to connect with each other, and manyare left in the dark about the safety and well-being of their relatives inother parts of the world.

 

3. Information Flow: Access toaccurate and timely information is crucial, particularly in times of crisis.The internet shutdown limits the ability of the people in Gaza to stay informedabout the evolving situation, which can have serious implications for theirsafety and well-being. This raises concerns about the Israeli government'swillingness to conceal what happened in Gaza without any witnesses.

 

We call upon the internationalcommunity to urge the Israeli government to reconsider the internet shutdown inGaza and to find alternative means to address their concerns while ensuringthat the basic human rights and needs of the people in the region are met. Itis essential to remember that a thriving and connected community is more likelyto contribute to peace and stability in the region.

We urge the internationalcommunity to closely monitor the situation and work towards a resolution thatrespects the rights and well-being of all individuals affected by this internetshutdown.

 

Internet Society

Palestine Chapter
https://isoc.ps/?p=582


 
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