Digital barriers to electoral information The digital space is essential for the electorate to access diverse, independent information, enabling informed participation in elections. However, since the 2021 coup, the military has imposed severe barriers to the free flow of information online, underscoring the lack of credibility in the elections planned for 2025. A key barrier is the military’s extensive use of internet shutdowns, which prevent public access to independent information and communication. Particularly in conflict-affected areas, internet access has been either temporarily or permanently cut. These shutdowns isolate communities, obstruct communication, and prevent the dissemination of political information, including updates on the planned elections. Such actions directly violate the right to freedom of expression and information. Additionally, the military has blocked access to social media platforms and independent media websites. Platforms such as Facebook—a primary information source for many in Myanmar— have been restricted, along with independent news outlets providing critical coverage of political developments. Individuals using virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass these restrictions face significant risks, including arrest, harassment, and severe penalties. These measures aim to control public discourse and suppress dissenting voices, violating principles of media freedom and transparency. As the 2025 election approaches, the military will likely escalate barriers to independent information, aiming to suppress criticism of electoral credibility. For instance, the new Cyber Security Law, adopted in January 2025, further criminalises normal and legitimate online activities. The public will increasingly be forced to rely on military-controlled sources, particularly offline, such as state-operated broadcasters. Attacks on reliable information To make informed decisions about whether to vote and, if so, when to cast their ballots, the electorate must access reliable, balanced, and timely information. Independent sources, including journalists, civil society actors, and human rights defenders, are vital for this purpose. However, the military has targeted such voices, curtailing press freedom and cracking down on civil society. Journalists in Myanmar face arbitrary arrest, harassment, and violence. As of this submission, at least 56 journalists remain in military prisons, with over 200 detained since the coup. Many face charges under broad, vaguely defined laws, often linked to terrorism, with sentences ranging from 15 to 25 years for practising journalism. Civil society organisations, traditionally crucial in promoting voter education and public mobilisation during elections, have also been targeted. Numerous groups have been blocked online, de-registered, or subjected to severe restrictions on their activities. Members engaging in election-related work risk arrest and detention, stifling civic engagement. In 2024, the military ordered all civil society organisations to keep over half their assets in State banks, and only use remaining cash flow for activities, significantly undermining their operations. These