IGF 2025 Lightning Talk #11 Unplugged Progress: Internet Shutdowns and the African Youth

4. Quality Education
8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
9. Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
16. Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions


Targets: 1. Target 4.3 (Quality Education – Ensure equal access to affordable and quality education, including technical and vocational training) - Internet shutdowns disrupt access to online learning platforms, virtual classrooms, and educational resources. Many young people in Africa rely on digital tools for vocational training, university education, and skills development. Shutdowns create learning gaps, particularly for students in remote areas who depend on online education. 2. Target 8.2 (Economic Growth – Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading, and innovation) - Youth entrepreneurs, digital businesses, and freelancers rely on the internet for financial transactions, e-commerce, marketing, and business operations. Shutdowns interrupt these activities, leading to revenue losses, unemployment, and decreased investor confidence in Africa’s digital economy. This stifles innovation and slows economic diversification. 3. Target 9.1 (Infrastructure – Develop sustainable and resilient infrastructure to support economic development and human well-being) - The internet is a critical part of modern infrastructure, supporting industries like fintech, logistics, healthcare, and smart cities. Frequent shutdowns weaken digital infrastructure, making it unreliable for businesses and public services. They also discourage investment in Africa’s ICT sector, limiting opportunities for technological advancement. 4. Target 16.10 (Access to Information & Fundamental Freedoms – Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms) - Internet shutdowns violate the right to access information, suppress freedom of expression, and limit civic participation. Activists, journalists, and young leaders use digital platforms to advocate for social justice and democratic reforms. Shutdowns are often used to silence dissent, disrupt protests, and control narratives, undermining democratic institutions and human rights.