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 Day has decided to review 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, Sudan, and Iran, all carried out by governments, inter alia, to stifle conflict and internal monitor reporting or disrespect the communication of internet services, when instructed to do so.

The human rights abuses extend beyond the obvious denial of internet shutdowns to stymie enemy communications or civil dissent. They encompass the facilitation of electronic surveillance that falls 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 Communications Authority directed all internet service providers, including MTN, to block access to social media “for up to 60 days” with South Sudan. This was allegedly to block the spread of social media videos showing South Sudanese villages being killed and uprooted by the state army.

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