The UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in the Palestinian territories recently launched a study into the killing of journalists, destruction of media infrastructure, and narratives that may enable international crimes. In response, the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) submitted a detailed report highlighting a dramatic decline in press freedom since October 2023, with increased censorship, targeted killings, and a pre-existing surveillance regime. This Q&A explores key findings from EFF's submission.
What prompted the UN Special Rapporteur's study on journalists in Palestine?
The study was announced to address the alarming number of killings and attacks against Palestinian journalists and media workers, particularly in Gaza. It also examines the destruction of media infrastructure, including broadcast facilities and internet networks, and the production of narratives that may justify or incite international crimes. The UN aims to document these violations and recommend measures to protect press freedom and accountability for perpetrators.
What did EFF's submission reveal about press freedom since October 2023?
EFF's submission to the UN identified a significant deterioration of press freedom and free expression after October 2023. This includes a wave of journalist killings, increased government censorship, and intensified surveillance of Palestinians. The report emphasizes that these actions add to an already pervasive regime of control, with digital platforms being used to suppress dissent. Key concerns include government takedown requests, disinformation policies, and attacks on internet infrastructure.
How have government takedown requests affected Palestinian media?
EFF's report highlights a surge in requests from authorities to remove critical content online, targeting Palestinian journalists and activists. These takedown orders often cite security concerns but are used to silence legitimate reporting on human rights abuses. Platforms like social media companies frequently comply, creating a chilling effect on free expression. Such practices violate international standards and isolate Palestinian voices from the global discourse.
What role does disinformation and content moderation play in this context?
Disinformation campaigns and biased content moderation have further restricted Palestinian media. EFF notes that platforms often remove or demonetize content about Palestinian experiences, labeling it as hate speech or misinformation. This asymmetrical enforcement silences advocates while allowing narratives that dehumanize Palestinians to persist. The weaponization of moderation policies undermines the right to information and distorts public understanding of the conflict.
How have attacks on internet infrastructure impacted Palestinians?
Since October 2023, deliberate strikes on telecommunications infrastructure have caused widespread connectivity blackouts in Gaza. EFF describes these as digital sieges that cut Palestinians off from the world, hindering emergency services, news reporting, and humanitarian aid. The destruction of internet networks—including fiber lines and mobile towers—violates the right to access information and exacerbates the humanitarian crisis.
Why is ending the digital isolation of Palestinians critical for human rights?
EFF argues that the deliberate digital isolation of Palestinians is a fundamental human rights concern. Without reliable internet, journalists cannot document violations, activists cannot organize, and civilians cannot access vital services. Ending this isolation is essential for protecting free expression, ensuring accountability, and enabling the Palestinian people to participate in global conversations. International pressure must push for restoration of connectivity and an end to censorship.