How to Assess and Respond to the Decline of Press Freedom and Free Expression in Palestine: A Step-by-Step Guide Based on EFF's UN Submission

Introduction

In October 2023, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967 launched a study focusing on the killings and attacks against Palestinian journalists and media workers, the destruction of media infrastructure in Gaza, and the spread of narratives that may enable, justify, or incite international crimes. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) submitted a detailed contribution to this consultation, highlighting a severe deterioration of press freedom and free expression in the region since that date. This how-to guide will help you understand the key issues outlined in the EFF's submission and take informed action to support Palestinian media rights. By following these steps, you will learn about the three main areas of concern—government takedown requests, disinformation and content moderation, and attacks on internet infrastructure—and how to engage with policymakers, amplify accurate information, and advocate for change.

What You Need

• Access to the full EFF submission (reading it beforehand is helpful)
• Basic knowledge of human rights and international law
• Internet connection to research and share information
• Contact details for your local representatives or international human rights organizations
• A social media account or blog to spread awareness
• Patience and willingness to learn

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Core Issues from the EFF Submission

Begin by reading the EFF's submission and understanding the three major concerns it raises. The submission identifies a significant increase in censorship and a wave of journalist killings since October 2023, building on an already pervasive censorship and surveillance regime for Palestinians. Specifically, the submission focuses on:

• Government takedown requests: Demands by authorities to remove online content critical of Israeli policies or reporting on Palestinian experiences.
• Disinformation and content moderation: The spread of false narratives and the way platforms moderate (or fail to moderate) content to silence Palestinian voices.
• Attacks on internet infrastructure: Physical and digital disruptions that cut off or degrade Palestinian access to the internet, isolating them from the global conversation.

Take notes on specific examples cited in the submission, such as the killing of journalists in Gaza and the destruction of media buildings.

Step 2: Contextualize the Deterioration of Press Freedom

Understand that the issues raised are not new but have escalated dramatically. Prior to October 2023, Palestinian journalists already faced censorship, surveillance, and legal harassment. The EFF submission details how the situation has worsened, with increased government takedown requests and infrastructure attacks. Research additional sources from organizations like Reporters Without Borders, the Committee to Protect Journalists, and local Palestinian media groups to build a comprehensive picture. Identify key dates and events that marked turning points, such as the October events that triggered the study.

Step 3: Analyze the Role of International Forums

The EFF submission is part of a broader effort in multiple international forums to address censorship in Palestine. These include the UN Human Rights Council, the International Criminal Court, and various special procedures. Read about how these bodies can exert pressure on Israel and other actors to protect press freedom. Understand that ending the deliberate digital isolation of Palestinians is critical to protecting fundamental human rights, as stated in the submission.

Step 4: Identify Actionable Responses

Now that you know the facts, think about what you can do. Possible actions include:

• Advocacy: Write to your government representatives urging them to condemn attacks on journalists and support UN investigations.
• Awareness: Share accurate information on social media, using the EFF submission as a reference. Avoid spreading unverified claims.
• Support: Donate to organizations that protect Palestinian journalists or provide legal aid.
• Amplification: Subscribe to and promote Palestinian media outlets that report despite risks.

Step 5: Engage with Content Moderation and Platform Accountability

The EFF submission highlights how content moderation on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube often disproportionately affects Palestinian voices. To address this, you can:

• Report biased moderation: If you see legitimate Palestinian content removed, file an appeal with the platform and document the case.
• Follow platform policies: Stay updated on changes to terms of service that may affect free expression.
• Support alternative platforms: Use or promote decentralized social networks that are less prone to censorship.

Step 6: Counter Disinformation with Verified Facts

Disinformation that justifies or incites violence against Palestinians is a key concern. To fight it, follow these sub-steps:

1. Verify claims: Use fact-checking websites like Snopes, Bellingcat, or local Palestinian fact-checkers.
2. Share original sources: Link directly to reports from human rights groups or UN documents.
3. Educate others: Write blog posts or create infographics explaining the propaganda tactics used.
4. Push back: Politely correct misinformation in your social circles, citing authoritative sources.

Step 7: Advocate for Protection of Internet Infrastructure

Attacks on internet infrastructure in Gaza and the West Bank are a form of collective punishment. To advocate for restoration:

• Contact telecommunications companies: Ask them to repair damaged networks and refuse to cooperate with blanket shutdowns.
• Pressure governments: Urge your government to include internet access as a human rights issue in diplomatic talks.
• Support mesh networks: Encourage the development of independent, decentralized internet alternatives.

Step 8: Monitor the UN Study and EFF's Follow-Up

The UN Special Rapporteur is expected to release a report based on the consultation. Stay tuned for updates and continue to track EFF's work on this issue. Subscribe to EFF's newsletter or follow their social media to receive alerts. When the report is published, share it and analyze how the recommendations align with your advocacy.

Step 9: Build a Network of Like-Minded Activists

Join forums, attend webinars, and collaborate with organizations that focus on press freedom in Palestine. Sharing resources and strategies multiplies your impact. Consider forming a local study group to discuss the EFF submission and plan collective actions.

Tips for Effective Action

• Stay factual: Always ground your advocacy in verified information from sources like the EFF submission and UN reports.
• Be persistent: Advocacy can take time. Don’t get discouraged by slow progress.
• Respect Palestinian voices: Listen to and center the perspectives of Palestinian journalists and activists rather than speaking over them.
• Use internal anchor links: When creating digital content, link back to this guide's sections to help readers navigate.
• Protect your digital security: Use encrypted communications and secure platforms when discussing sensitive topics.
• Document everything: Keep records of censorship incidents, takedown requests, and infrastructure attacks for future reference.
• Connect with legal aid: If you or someone you know faces retaliation, contact organizations like EFF’s legal team or the Palestine Legal group.