Access Now

Arzu Geybulla didn't just study repression — she lived it. Grew up under it. Is targeted by it. And has spent more than a decade in exile because of it.

In our latest blog, our new Co-Executive Director reflects on her path leading her to Access Now.

Read about Arzu’s journey: https://www.accessnow.org/fighting-for-fragile-freedoms-online-and-off/

5 years after the coup, Myanmar's junta continues to systematically oppress its people — mass arrests, killings, internet shutdowns, and crushed civic space online and offline.

Now they want legitimacy through military-controlled elections.

Access Now's Wai Phyo Mint & Darika Bamrungchok write for Tech Policy Press.
https://www.techpolicy.press/five-years-after-coup-myanmars-digital-authoritarianism-enters-new-phase/

Iran's near-total internet shutdown has been ongoing since February 28.

Connectivity dropped 98%+ after U.S. and Israeli military strikes on Iran, triggering further escalation across the region. The reported death toll has surpassed 1,000 people, while millions remain cut off from the internet, for the second time this year, at a moment when access to communications and reliable information is most critical.

Access Now is heading to #SXSW2026! 🎉

We're proud to be featured in three sessions, bringing our work on digital rights and cybersecurity to one of the world's premier stages for technology and culture.

Here's where to find us 🔽 🧵

NEW | Hundreds of companies are pitching shady surveillance tech to EU migration agencies through industry events that evade lobbying transparency rules.

See the 450+ companies involved ⬇️
https://www.accessnow.org/companies-powering-eu-war-on-migrants/

Digital attacks on civil society are growing more sophisticated — and we need to face them together.

Tomorrow, March 10 at 9 AM ET / 2 PM CET, join us for the launch of "Safe and Strong", a new webinar series on digital resilience.

Our first session tackles spear phishing — highly targeted attacks that can fool even experienced professionals, putting journalists, activists, and civil society organizations at risk.

Register: accessnow.org/digital-security-webinars

How can you detect spear-phishing attacks before it’s too late?

Join the first webinar of our new series, “Safe and Strong,” on March 10, which will cover new trends and share practical tips for civil society to raise its defenses.

Register here:
accessnow.org/digital-security-webinars

Iran has been cut off from the internet as people take to the streets.

At least 34 protesters have been killed and 2,200 arrested. Internet shutdowns violate rights, hide abuses + silence dissent

Authorities must reconnect Iran’s people NOW. #KeepItOn

https://www.bbc.com/news/live/clyzjn0w9l2t

Across conflict zones, internet shutdowns are used as a tactic of war.

Based on testimonies from Gaza and Sudan, our new report shows how shutdowns inflict psychological, economic, political, and societal damage.

Read the report: https://www.accessnow.org/internet-shutdowns-typology-of-harms/

Today on Human Rights Day, we’re reminded that the struggle for human rights now extends into the digital world.

Protecting digital rights is part of protecting each other — and building a future where everyone can live, speak, and participate with freedom and dignity!