Reports

This report examines the growing use of digital repression as a tool for controlling civic space across the Middle East and Africa. Civic space allows individuals, journalists, human rights defenders, civil society organisations, and communities to express opinions, access information, organise peacefully, and participate in public life. However, governments across the region are increasingly using digital technologies to restrict these freedoms.

The report analyses how surveillance, spyware, biometric systems, restrictive cybercrime laws, internet shutdowns, platform blocking, disinformation campaigns, and online harassment are being used to silence dissent and control public narratives. It highlights country-specific examples from Rwanda, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Jordan, Uganda, Nigeria, Iran, Iraq, Ethiopia, Senegal, Sudan, and others.

The report further explores the human rights impact of digital repression, including violations of freedom of expression, privacy, association, peaceful assembly, access to information, and the protection of human rights defenders. It concludes by identifying gaps in international legal frameworks and recommends stronger accountability mechanisms, transparent digital governance, and coordinated action by states, international organisations, civil society, and technology companies.