Pakistan’s internet and social media services have experienced significant slowdowns, which activists and business leaders attribute to government measures aimed at controlling dissent and increasing surveillance.
Internet Speed Reduction and WhatsApp Disruptions
Since July, internet speeds in Pakistan have decreased by as much as 40%. Users have reported disruptions in transmitting documents, images, and voice notes on WhatsApp, which is extensively used across the country.
Government’s National Firewall and Censorship
Experts suggest that the slowdown is linked to the installation of a national firewall and content filtering system by the government. This system is believed to be used for enhancing surveillance and suppressing political dissent, particularly criticism directed at the military’s involvement in politics.
Usama Khilji, a digital rights expert, stated, “The slowdown appears to be part of a broader strategy to increase government control over online spaces and censor political criticism.”
Economic and Business Implications
The Pakistan Software Houses Association estimates that the slowdown could potentially cost the IT sector up to $300 million. Shahzad Arshad, head of the Wireless & Internet Service Providers Association, warned that ongoing disruptions could lead to businesses relocating from Pakistan.
Despite these challenges, Punjab province has recently launched an advertising campaign in New York’s Times Square to position itself as an “IT city.”
Ehsan Malik, CEO of the Pakistan Business Council, criticized the government’s approach, saying, “Alternative solutions could have mitigated the negative impact on businesses and protected Pakistan’s reputation in the IT sector.”
Legal and Human Rights Issues
Journalist Hamid Mir has filed a legal challenge against the government’s installation of the firewall, which is set to be reviewed by Islamabad High Court.
The Pakistani government’s control over the internet and media has faced criticism from activists who argue that it stifles free speech. The social media platform X remains banned in Pakistan following allegations of election rigging involving the party of imprisoned opposition leader Imran Khan.
Shahzad Ahmad, head of the digital rights organization Bytes for All, warned that the firewall could erode trust among IT investors and infringe on citizens’ fundamental rights.
