Satellite Internet Companies Could Help Break Authoritarianism

Satellite Internet Companies Could Help Break Authoritarianism

Introduction

In 2022, the killing of 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian Mahsa Amini by Iran’s “morality police” sparked nationwide protests on police brutality and women’s rights. The Iranian government responded by shutting down mobile data communication and hampering the flow of information through social media channels. Internet access, especially through satellite providers, can play a crucial role in preserving autonomy and freedoms under authoritarian leadership.

The Role of Satellite Internet in Breaking Authoritarianism

Internet access is essential for preserving democratic ideals and basic human rights. Shutdowns of Internet access restrict freedom of thought, movement, and knowledge. Satellite Internet providers, such as Starlink, can offer a lifeline to people undergoing communication shutdowns. Western governments and non-governmental organizations should incentivize and insist that satellite providers establish simple Internet access for those affected by authoritarian regimes.

Protests and Requests for Help

During the protests following Mahsa Amini’s death, activists in Iran reached out to Internet providers like Starlink for assistance. However, negotiations between the Biden administration and Elon Musk, the owner of Starlink, have not yielded results. Urgent action is needed to provide Internet access in repressive countries like Iran.

Internet Shutdowns and Global Impact

Internet shutdowns are not limited to Iran. According to Access Now, there were 182 Internet shutdowns in 34 countries in 2021 alone. Freedom House’s report on Internet freedom reveals that only 17 out of 70 assessed countries are truly free in terms of access, censorship, and user rights. Shockingly, 44% of the global population lives in countries where authorities frequently shut down the Internet or mobile networks for political purposes.

Expanding Satellite Internet Coverage

Satellite Internet companies like Starlink and Amazon’s Project Kuiper are rapidly deploying satellite constellations to provide Internet coverage. While concerns about satellite debris and light pollution are valid, providing free basic Internet access to citizens in repressive countries can outweigh these problems. Governments in developed nations should incentivize companies to offer essential services worldwide, while still allowing them to provide faster, higher-quality Internet for paying customers.

Educating the Public and Mitigating Misinformation

As low-Earth orbit satellite Internet advances, providers need to educate the public about Internet access and combat misinformation. Guidelines and fact sheets can help mitigate the spread of misinformation and ensure the safe use of satellite Internet services. Governments should also prioritize negotiations with satellite Internet providers to prevent future crises and ensure access for all.

Conclusion

Internet access is a vital tool for preserving freedom and human rights under authoritarian regimes. Satellite Internet companies have the potential to break the cycle of repression by providing essential services to those affected by communication shutdowns. Governments and organizations must prioritize the establishment of simple Internet access through satellite providers to uphold democratic ideals and empower individuals worldwide.