On September 18, 2024, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, alongside Senator James Lankford (R-OK), introduced the Iran Internet Freedom Act. This legislation marks the second anniversary of the “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests, which erupted following the tragic death of Jina Mahsa Amini at the hands of Iran’s morality police.
Background: The “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests
The “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement began in September 2022 after Jina Mahsa Amini, a young Kurdish-Iranian woman, was arrested and beaten to death for allegedly wearing her hijab improperly. Her death sparked widespread protests across Iran, with demonstrators demanding justice and an end to the regime’s oppressive policies. The Iranian government’s response was brutal, involving mass arrests, intimidation, and even executions.
The Iran internet Freedom Act
The Iran Internet Freedom Act aims to support the Iranian people’s right to free expression and access to information, which the regime has systematically tried to suppress. The bill authorizes $30 million over two years for grants through the Open Technology Fund. These grants will support open, reliable, and secure internet services, particularly for human rights defenders, independent journalists, civil society, and marginalized groups within Iran.
Key provisions of the act
Funding and Support: The Act allocates $30 million to the Open Technology Fund to enhance internet freedom in Iran.
VPN Access: It seeks to expand access to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to help Iranians bypass government-imposed internet restrictions.
Circumventing Blackouts: The legislation includes measures to circumvent internet blackouts, ensuring that Iranians can stay connected even during government-imposed shutdowns.
Sanctions Compliance: It ensures that U.S. sanctions do not prevent companies from providing the necessary tools for internet access in Iran.
The Importance of internet freedom
Internet freedom is crucial for the Iranian people, especially in their fight against the regime’s repressive tactics. The internet serves as a vital tool for organizing protests, sharing information, and connecting with the outside world. By blocking internet access, the Iranian government aims to stifle dissent and silence activists.
A tribute to Mahsa Amini and the Iranian people
The introduction of the Iran Internet Freedom Act is not only a legislative response to the regime’s digital authoritarianism but also a tribute to Mahsa Amini and the countless Iranians who continue to demand justice. As Iran remains one of the lowest-ranked countries for internet freedom, safeguarding digital access is essential for the ongoing struggle for human rights.
The Iran Internet Freedom Act represents a significant step in supporting the Iranian people’s fight for freedom and justice. By promoting internet access and countering the regime’s efforts to silence dissent, this legislation honors the memory of Mahsa Amini and the brave individuals who continue to stand up against oppression.
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