Asian Angle: The Risk of Digital Repression in Nepal and Thailand

Nepal recently experienced the consequences of digital repression, echoing what Thailand had previously learned about the risks involved. These tactics, ranging from internet blackouts to subtle control measures in Indonesia, ultimately result in fostering resentment and resistance among the population. Instead of simple censorship or content moderation, these actions are part of a broader strategy of digital repression deployed by states. This strategy includes surveillance, disinformation campaigns, targeted arrests, and disruptions to connectivity to shape public information and discourse. The success of these measures relies heavily on the state’s ability to accurately calibrate its actions, particularly in terms of timing, scope, and the specific communities affected.