Connectivity in Crisis: What the Recent Events in Balochistan, Pakistan Reveal About Digital Rights and Internet Governance

When Silence Speaks Louder Than Words In the early hours of 29–30 January 2026, as violence spread across Balochistan, another crisis unfolded alongside it: a near-total communication blackout. With internet and mobile services suspended, residents in cities such as Quetta, Mastung, Nushki, Pasni, Turbat, Panjgur, and Gwadar were left without access to timely information. People […]

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NetMission Academy 2026 Session 7 Summary

How does the Domain Name System shape our everyday Internet experience?  Session 7 explored the technical foundations of the Domain Name System (DNS), ICANN’s governance role, and the growing policy challenges around DNS abuse. The session connected core infrastructure concepts with real-world governance debates, highlighting how decisions around generic top-level domains (gTLDs) and abuse mitigation […]

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NetMission Academy 2026 Session 6 Summary

How do we build digital spaces where everyone can participate safely and equitably? Session 6 of the NetMission Academy journey, themed “Diversity and Inclusivity in the Digital Age,” examined digital inclusion and technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) across the Asia-Pacific region. The session featured panel insights from Ms. Ihita Gangavarapu, Coordinator of the India Youth Internet […]

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Digital Rights and the Struggle for Civic Space in Pakistan

In many parts of the world, a single social media post can now trigger arrest, investigation, and public vilification. In Pakistan, the distance between a tweet and a courtroom has grown alarmingly short, reflecting a broader regional shift in how states perceive and police digital expression. Across the Asia-Pacific, governments increasingly frame online restrictions as […]

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NetMission Academy 2026 Session 5 Summary

Who holds power in the digital era? Session 5, titled “Digital Economy and Emerging Technologies,” commenced on February 5, 2026. The session examined how artificial intelligence and core Internet infrastructure are reshaping economic power, governance, and influence across the Asia-Pacific region and the Global South. Moderated by Rani Retmono and Khushbakht, the discussion brought together […]

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