As more and more countries have seen the internet being used to organize for political change, however, internet blackouts have become increasingly common , a go-to tool for controlling unrest and stifling criticism of the government. Despite arguably kicking off the trend of internet shutdowns, Beijing is not a frequent offender in this regard. In 2018, there were 196 internet shutdowns globally -- mainly in Asia, Africa and the Middle East -- according to Access Now . In many instances, especially blanket shutdowns, internet blackouts may breach rights guaranteed by the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international treaties. The year 2019 was when internet shutdowns became a mainstream problem -- and the case against them, both economic and political, is undeniable.

Source: CNN December 22, 2019 00:45 UTC