Pakistan experienced the highest financial losses globally from internet and social media shutdowns in 2024. The country lost $1.62 billion, surpassing nations like Sudan and Myanmar that are facing civil wars.
Pakistan Tops Internet Shutdown Costs
A report by Top10VPN.com revealed that Pakistan ranked first in internet disruption-related losses. The financial impact exceeded countries struggling with internal conflicts, such as Myanmar and Sudan.
Globally, internet shutdowns caused $7.69 billion in losses. Pakistan’s share of this figure highlighted the significant economic harm caused by government-imposed outages.
Shutdowns in Pakistan Lasted Over 9,000 Hours
Pakistan witnessed 18 internet shutdowns in 2024. These disruptions lasted a total of 9,735 hours and affected 82.9 million users. The shutdowns were triggered by elections, protests, and government information control measures.
The most costly disruption occurred when social media platform X (formerly Twitter) faced a shutdown starting on February 18. This single incident cost the country $1.34 billion.
Another significant disruption happened in Balochistan during protests by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee. The shutdown, which lasted from July 16 to August 21, led to an additional $11.8 million in economic losses.
Global Trends in Internet Disruptions
Worldwide, intentional internet disruptions lasted for 88,788 hours in 2024, affecting 28 countries in 167 incidents. Despite the overall financial cost dropping by 15.8% compared to 2023, the duration of shutdowns increased by 12%.
In 2023, internet blackouts lasted 79,238 hours, leading to $9.01 billion in losses globally.
Asia emerged as the most affected region. Pakistan, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and India were among the top six countries impacted.
Myanmar and Sudan Also Face Heavy Losses
Myanmar ranked second with a loss of $1.58 billion due to shutdowns lasting 20,376 hours. Sudan followed closely with 12,707 hours of disruption, resulting in $1.12 billion in financial damage.
Other heavily impacted nations included Venezuela, which lost $1.12 billion, and Bangladesh, with losses of $796.6 million.
Economic Impact and Methodology
The report used the Cost of Shutdown Tool (COST) developed by NetBlocks. This tool estimates economic damage based on a country’s GDP, the duration of the shutdown, and the affected population percentage.
The methodology aligns with research from the Brookings Institution and CIPESA. Specific apps’ contributions to GDP are also factored into the calculation.
Censorship and Economic Damage
Simon Migliano, Head of Research at Top10VPN.com, called internet shutdowns “extreme censorship”. He stated that these actions infringe on digital rights and harm national economies.
Migliano emphasized that deliberate internet outages represent “self-destructive policies”. They not only suppress free speech but also severely limit economic growth.
Pakistan’s Digital Future at Risk
Internet disruptions in Pakistan continue to face legal challenges. The **Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA)** has faced criticism over the lack of transparency in implementing shutdowns.
The increasing trend of internet blackouts raises concerns about Pakistan’s digital economy and investment climate. Observers warn that continued shutdowns may drive away tech companies and investors.
Pakistan’s record-breaking losses from internet shutdowns in 2024 reflect deeper governance issues. As the global economy becomes more interconnected, limiting internet access could worsen economic challenges for the country.
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