MTN’s ethical dilemma: human rights violations amid internet shutdowns

MTN IS more widely known for the communication, education, and financial benefits its mobile and internet services bring to 19 African markets, but allegations of human rights violations due to internet shutdowns ordered by governments in conflict continue to surface, raising an ethical dilemma for the group.

- EDWARD WEST

Business Report was shocked to view an investigation by Opensecrets.org.za into these alleged human rights abuses by MTN in countries such as Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Iran, and Sudan, all carried out by government decree. Typically, the cellphone and internet operator in a country is bound by its contract with the government or its communications regulator to suspend the provision of internet services, when instructed to do so.

The human rights abuses extend beyond the obvious use of an internet shutdown to stymie enemy communications or civil dissent. They encompass the fact that electronic communications now fall into the realm of basic human rights, including freedom of speech and access to information.

Restricting access to critical digital platforms in times of crisis stifles not only free expression but also access to healthcare and life-saving information.

Internet platforms are not solely for social communications; they are lifelines in times of crisis, allowing the rapid dissemination of alerts about safety, shelter, and emergency services.

Some examples gleaned from Sudan are helpful at this stage. On January 22, 2025, Sudan's National Communication Authority directed all internet service providers, including MTN, to block access to social media for up to 90 days in South Sudan. This was allegedly to block the spread of social media videos showing South Sudanese villagers being killed, reportedly by the Sudan army.

In 2019, a long internet shutdown in Sudan was lifted when a Sudanese lawyer lodged a lawsuit, and the court ordered his internet service provider, Zain, to restore his service.