"GNI statement on network disruptions in the pandemic context," 3 May 2020

To lessen the negative impacts of the pandemic, ensure the public’s access to information, and facilitate the development and application of new, constructive, and inclusive solutions in fields such as healthcare, education, and participatory governance, it is important to understand how government-mandated network disruptions and intentional degradation of access can undermine these goals... As we have pointed out, among other consequences, government-mandated network disruptions can negatively impact human rights, conflict with the Sustainable Development Goals, cause economic harm, and increase insecurity. They can also make it more difficult for journalists to access government information and conduct independent reporting... these concerns have only become more acute in the context of the ongoing pandemic. Lack of access to stable channels of communication disrupts and delays critical emergency services and threatens people’s ability to receive the treatment they need, especially in vulnerable communities. It also prevents access to vital and accurate information about the pandemic.

... GNI calls on governments to meet international standards for human rights when weighing any decision that could result in the disruption or degradation of networks or network services, or illegal discrimination in their delivery. Where network disruptions are in place, governments should move expeditiously to rescind them... Governments should also work collaboratively with network providers and other stakeholders to increase the availability and accessibility of high-speed information and communication networks.