Amnesty International urges govt to restore X

Amnesty International has urged the Pakistani government for the immediate reinstatement of the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), which has been inaccessible for 29 days following government restrictions.

In a statement posted on X, the human rights organization announced its collaboration with 28 civil society groups in urging Pakistani authorities to honor the rights to freedom of expression and access to information as mandated by the country's international human rights obligations, as reported by Dawn.com.

The joint statement, endorsed by Amnesty International and civil society organizations, emphasizes the urgent need for the platform's restoration. It voices deep concern over the escalating trend of internet shutdowns and social media platform bans, particularly surrounding the recent general elections in Pakistan.

These measures not only violate fundamental rights to freedom of expression and information but also set a troubling precedent by stifling genuine political dialogue and suppressing diverse voices within the nation.

The indiscriminate blocking of platforms, including the prolonged and unannounced suspension of "X" (formerly Twitter) since February 17, serves as a stark reminder of the escalating digital censorship in Pakistan, the statement highlights.

Such actions not only silence a variety of political perspectives but also foster an environment conducive to the dissemination of misinformation, the statement said. 

🇵🇰 PAKISTAN: It has been 29 days since the Government of Pakistan has blocked access to “X”, formerly known as Twitter, in the country.

Amnesty International is one of 28 civil society organizations that have signed a joint statement calling for immediate restoration of the…

— Amnesty International South Asia, Regional Office (@amnestysasia) March 16, 2024