Freedom of Expression During Myanmar’s Revolution: The Gap Between Legal Provisions and Practice
does it provide clear definitions of how freedom of expression is to be protected.
While such generic statements may convey a positive political image, they present a
legal weakness that allows authorities to interpret the way they prefer. Therefore,
international standards are mentioned only for inclusion.
5.2.2 Restriction of Freedom of Expression Based on Security Justifications
Since 2023, the Karenni State has shifted from the interim government toward
serving more practical administrative duties. When the administrative and security
pressures intensified, measures such as restricting access to information and
prohibiting journalists from gathering news began to emerge. These controls have
been particularly happened after the military regime committed an airstrike and
intensified military activities. During such times, people’s rights to access information
and freedom of expression have been controlled. One example is the prohibition on
using Starlink internet services.
A Karenni-based journalist interviewed by Athan shared his experience: “There are
limits on when and how long Starlink can be used. Certain restrictions are imposed
mainly for security reasons. For example, on the ground, we have directives telling
shops not to operate and people not to use the internet after 10 p.m. In some areas
that have experienced frequent airstrikes, there have also been cases where internet
access was cut off.”
A Karenni-based journalist interviewed by Athan shared his experience: “There are
limits on when and how long Starlink can be used. Certain restrictions are imposed
mainly for security reasons. For example, on the ground, we have directives telling
shops not to operate and people not to use the internet after 10 p.m. In some areas
that have experienced frequent airstrikes, there have also been cases where internet
access was cut off.”14 Based on this account, such restrictions amount to limiting the
public’s right of access to information on the basis of security justifications.
14
A journalist from Karenni State
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