Articles by Social Media Exchange (SMEX)
Critical archives at risk as digital security lapses hit civil society
Civil society organisations in North and East Syria grapple with limited resources and mounting technical hurdles, putting their essential data and documentation in jeopardy.
Internet and telecom disruptions continue in Syria
SMEX highlights ongoing internet and telecom disruptions, revealing critical cybersecurity gaps in CSOs and concerns over data privacy, misinformation, and restricted access to information.
Syria: Authorities threaten social media users and confiscate Starlink devices
Amid promises to improve internet access, Syrian authorities are tightening control – threatening social media users and cutting off thousands from satellite internet.
Iraq: Balgh platform marks two years as a tool of repression
Rights groups urge authorities to shut down the ‘indecent content’ reporting system, which has been weaponized to suppress free expression.
Displaced and disconnected: Internet shutdowns disrupt the lives of thousands
Israeli airstrikes have worsened network connectivity in South Lebanon, isolating residents from vital information.
Escalating crackdown on free speech in the Gulf
Gulf states silence critics with harsh prison sentences and deportations, using vague laws to crack down on online dissent.
Jordanian authorities crack down on online speech during the war on Gaza, illegally arrest detainees’ family members
Authorities have used the Cybercrime Law to suppress citizens’ freedom of expression, launching an arrest campaign targeting activists.
Iraq authorities threaten to ban TikTok
Freedom of expression fears grow with a proposal to ban the online platform, unveiling broader censorship concerns.