Internet Shutdowns Activism Fellowship
Charlie Martial NGOUNOU
Internet Shutdowns Activism Fellowship
Every year, millions of people worldwide suffer the consequences of internet shutdowns, severely impacting their ability to exercise fundamental rights and participate actively in societies, economies, and democracies. These shutdowns often occur without warning, forcing us to quickly react during moments of crisis or political uncertainty when communications are curtailed. In order to build advocacy capacity to prepare for and respond to internet shutdowns before they occur, Advocacy Assembly presents the Shutdowns Activism Fellowship. This six-week online initiative aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to prepare better and build an internet shutdown advocacy campaign. In order to take part in the Shutdowns Activism Fellowship, you need to complete an application. Please note the following:
- Applications deadline is July 15, 2023, but applications will be accepted on a rolling basis so we encourage application submissions before this deadline.
- The program runs from August - October 2023.
- Participants will then have four months, from October 2023 to February 2024, to implement funded activities.
Unlocking the Potential of Advocacy
The Shutdowns Activism Fellowship is designed as an opportunity for
individuals in at-risk countries who aspire to become champions in the
fight against internet shutdowns. Through engaging with international
experts, fellows will gain valuable insights into developing
multi-stakeholder coalitions and executing responsive campaigns. The
program adopts a flexible, online learning format, allowing participants
to access course materials at their convenience. Moreover, one-on-one
conversations will enable fellows to receive personalized guidance as
they build comprehensive action plans tailored to their communities'
needs.
Empowering through Knowledge
During the fellowship program, participants will delve into a range of
critical topics. From documenting human rights violations during
shutdowns to utilizing tools like OONI and IODA to measure the impact of
shutdowns, fellows will acquire invaluable skills. They will also learn
to develop risk assessments and action plans, engage with the private
sector, understand strategic litigation against shutdowns, explore
circumvention methods for censorship, and build effective advocacy
campaigns. This knowledge will empower fellows to respond strategically
and proactively to internet shutdowns.
Transforming Ideas into Action
Upon completion of the program, fellows will have the opportunity to
access funds to implement activities outlined in their action plans.
This financial support could enable them to organize trainings for their
communities, design awareness campaigns, develop legal strategies,
localize circumvention tool resources, or collaborate with journalists
to report on internet shutdowns. By empowering fellows to translate
knowledge into tangible actions, the program aims to foster real change
and resilience in the face of internet shutdowns.
Join the Movement
Don't miss your chance to be part of the Shutdowns Activism Fellowship. The application process is simple—just fill out the form. The deadline for applications is July 15, 2023,
and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The program
itself will run from August to October 2023, followed by four months for
fellows to implement funded activities. The Advocacy Assembly's
Shutdowns Activism Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to combat
internet shutdowns head-on. By equipping individuals with the necessary
tools, knowledge, and financial support, this program enables
participants to become change-makers in their communities. Join the
fight against internet shutdowns and be a catalyst for positive change.
Apply today and make a difference! For any further inquiries, please contact Laura Schwartz-Henderson at curiouss...@gmail.com.