From Human Rights Watch:

The Myanmar government should immediately lift internet restrictions imposed on nine townships in Rakhine and Chin States, Human Rights Watch said today. The disruption to internet services since June 21, 2019 has exacerbated an information blackout and increased difficulties for humanitarian agencies and human rights groups to assist vulnerable populations in the face of increased fighting in the area.

Telecommunication providers said Myanmar’s Ministry of Transport and Telecommunications ordered them to shut down internet services in Ponnangyun, Kyauktaw, Maungdaw, Buthidaung, Rathedaung, Maruk-U, Minbya, and Myebon townships in Rakhine State, and Paletwa township in neighboring Chin State, where fighting between Arakan Army forces and the Myanmar military is taking place.

Myanmar authorities have imposed an internet blackout in Rakhine and Chin States that is depriving aid workers and rights monitors vital communications in a time of crisis,” said Brad Adams, Asia director. “Governments and the United Nations should be pressing Myanmar to immediately restore full internet access crucial for the population’s safety.”

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