Since the start of the conflict in the Tigray region in November 2020, internet and telecommunication shutdowns, and website blockings have occurred. As at August 2021, broadband and mobile internet remains off.

Human Rights Watch observes that under international human rights law, governments must ensure internet-based restrictions are provided by law and are a necessary and proportionate response to a security concern. General shutdowns violate multiple rights, such as freedom of expression.

On 29 July 2021, the #KeepItOn coalition called on all parties in the conflict to cease any attempts to censor the population and conceal war crimes.