Iran's internet blackout may become permanent, with access for elites only (restofworld.org)

Article summary

Iran's government is testing a two-tier internet system, where access to the global web is granted only to security-vetted elites, while the general population is restricted to a national intranet. The system, known as Barracks Internet, is being implemented amid a near-total communications blackout that has lasted for over two weeks. The economic costs of the blackout are estimated to be significant, with daily losses ranging from $4.3 million to $37 million. The move is seen as an attempt to suppress dissent and maintain control over the population.

Main themes

• Internet censorship
• Free speech
• Authoritarianism
• Iranian politics
• EU policies
• Global internet governance
• Civil liberties

What commenters say

• Some commenters argue that the EU's internet censorship and restrictions on free speech are comparable to Iran's actions, albeit on a smaller scale.
• Others disagree, stating that the differences in scale and intent between the EU and Iran are significant and should not be equated.
• There is concern that the normalization of internet censorship and restrictions on free speech in democratic countries could pave the way for more extreme measures.
• The idea that foreign governments and companies are working to undermine the Iranian regime is seen as a factor in the country's situation, but the extent of this influence is disputed.
• Some argue that the focus on Iran's actions distracts from similar issues in other countries, including the UK, where there are concerns about suppression of free speech and protest.
• Others counter that the severity of Iran's actions, including the killing of protesters, cannot be compared to the situation in other countries.
• The role of litigation and the legal system in addressing issues of free speech and internet censorship is seen as problematic, with some arguing that it can be used to suppress dissent.
• There is a sense that the erosion of civil liberties and the normalization of authoritarian measures are ongoing concerns that require constant vigilance and pushback.