Millions of Pakistanis have been facing constant issues with slow internet access in the last few months. The authorities tried to defend this situation by mentioning technical matters and the use of VPNs. However, a lot of studies and surveys claimed that the reason behind this slow internet issue was the implementation of a firewall in Pakistan.
This firewall issue is not just a threat to the IT industry and economy of Pakistan but can also lead to limitations on freedom of speech in the country. Keep reading to find out how this new technology can snatch our freedom of speech.
What is a firewall?
Now that we are discussing this issue in such great detail, it is also important to better understand what a firewall is. A firewall is a network security system that filters and controls the internet traffic. It acts as a barrier between internal and external networks (e.g., the Internet). A firewall gives the government access to monitor and restrict access to certain websites.
In Pakistan, there are rumors about a national firewall, which, as compared to traditional firewalls, is more extensive and affects large-scale internet infrastructure. The national firewall implemented in Pakistan will give the government access to track and control internet usage more strictly and also target major social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube.
As reported, the authorities will be screening all the ‘unsolicited posts.’ Till now, no information about the cost and operational specifics of the firewall has been disclosed. However, there are rumors that Pakistan might have purchased a firewall from China, where a firewall has existed since 2000.
What are the reasons behind the implementation of a firewall in Pakistan?
The authorities have yet not confirmed a firewall implementation and the reasons behind this move. The cryptic statements released only claimed that they are trying to work on the improvement of cybersecurity in the country. Also, some claimed that they have no involvement in the issue of slow internet and that it has been happening because of the usage of VPNs in the country. However, according to several reports, the firewall is being implemented, and it will use deep packet inspection (DPI) and block IP to monitor content through online data packers and also track the sender’s IP address.
This technology has been used in other countries for security purposes to prevent serious crimes. Here also it is being claimed that this technology is necessary in Pakistan to help suppress “anti-state sentiments.”
How is a firewall a serious threat to freedom of speech in Pakistan?
The problem is that Pakistan is already known as a country with limited freedom of speech. People talking too much about politics or other serious issues sometimes endanger their lives and careers. This year, so far in Pakistan, eight journalists have been killed for their active involvement in controversial state matters. Therefore, the implementation of firewalls in Pakistan has made everyone concerned about their web security.
Will authorities always have access to our content? Or our web activities? Are we no longer allowed to post our opinions online because the opposition will be able to hunt us down? These are some of the questions on the minds of Pakistani citizens right now. They are worried that their already limited freedom of speech might become more restricted and they will lose their right to share their opinions.
Recently, in Pakistan, one of the biggest digital platforms, X, got banned, which was a hub for political discussions and the latest updates on societal and daily issues. Therefore, people are now more concerned about their freedom of speech. While the government believes that access to major social media platforms and monitoring of online activities will tighten the government’s control over digital spaces, the public believes it will only limit their freedom of speech.
What is the situation of Internet censorship in Pakistan?
Source: Photo News Pakistan
Internet censorship is not a new concept in Pakistan. The country has a long history of limiting internet access, for instance, by blocking certain websites or social media platforms like X, formerly known as Twitter. Another common trend that has been observed in Pakistan is the temporary ban of some social media platforms. Whenever there is some political controversy or crisis in the country, the authorities shut down social media platforms and sometimes the internet, making it difficult for the public to connect digitally.
However, nothing was as permanent and comprehensive as a national firewall. This step has not only been met with criticism from Pakistanis but also from other countries. International observers have expressed concerns about the freedom of speech for the citizens of Pakistan. Some have even drawn comparisons to the countries with firewalls, such as China, Turkey, Russia, and Iran, stating that Pakistan might also be joining these nations in implementing strict censorship practices.
Activists in Pakistan have also criticized firewalls, claiming they are an attempt to control online content, which can negatively affect freedom of expression and privacy.
Summing It Up!
The introduction of a firewall in Pakistan in the name of improving the security in the country is expected to jeopardize the freedom of speech in the country. There will be constant concerns about being targeted while expressing opinions about current matters and political issues. The authorities are also expected to have access to data of major companies, which can be a threat to the commercial sector too. So far, nothing has been confirmed, but if a firewall enters Pakistan, it will meet with strict criticism from the public, only for the public not to be able to criticize openly.