Unveiling the Dark Web of Connectivity: Submarine Cables and the Tragedy of Myanmar’s Rohingya Crisis
In the intricate web of global connectivity, the internet serves as both a bridge and a battleground. The Rohingya crisis in Myanmar stands as a chilling testament to the dark underbelly of this digital age. As we dissect the narrative, it becomes evident that the story extends beyond the digital realm, encompassing the physical infrastructure that silently facilitates our online experiences — submarine cables.
Myanmar, a nation shrouded in decades of military dictatorship, underwent a transformative period marked by political reform and internet adoption. Amidst the promising prospects of connectivity, the uncontrolled influence of social media, particularly Facebook, became a breeding ground for hatred and misinformation. Yet, beneath the surface, submarine cables quietly played a role in shaping the tragedy.
Myanmar’s political landscape shifted in 2010, opening doors to the world after years of isolation. The influx of cell phones and the rapid spread of the internet presented an opportunity for global tech giants, notably Facebook, to enter an untapped market. The stage was set for an internet revolution that would change the dynamics of Myanmar’s societal fabric.
Facebook, with its strategic partnerships and free access initiatives, quickly became the dominant source of information for a nation just stepping into the digital age. Little did the world anticipate the repercussions of this seemingly benign entry into the online world.
As Myanmar embraced the internet, Facebook’s algorithmic dynamics amplified divisive content. Extremist figures like Ashin Wirathu exploited the platform to spread anti-Rohingya propaganda, contributing to escalating tensions. Warnings from journalists and researchers fell on deaf ears as Facebook continued its growth-focused strategy, inadvertently becoming a catalyst for the impending tragedy.
While the focus often centers on the role of social media platforms, the physical infrastructure of submarine cables remains a silent enabler. These cables, responsible for global internet connectivity, played a pivotal role in Myanmar’s online revolution. As conduits of information, they inadvertently became carriers of hatred and misinformation, underscoring the interconnected nature of the digital and physical worlds.
Despite Facebook’s post-crisis claims of reform, investigations in 2022 revealed continued lapses in filtering hateful content. The Rohingya crisis, with its devastating consequences, remains unresolved, leaving a million displaced individuals in the Kutupalong refugee camp.
As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, this tragic tale prompts introspection on the responsibilities that accompany the creation and maintenance of our interconnected world. Submarine cables, often overlooked in discussions about online experiences, emerge as crucial components requiring scrutiny and regulation.
The Rohingya crisis in Myanmar unveils a harrowing chapter in the intersection of technology, connectivity, and societal consequences. Beyond the digital realm, submarine cables silently underpin the global network that binds us all. The tragedy prompts us to reflect on the ethical dimensions of our technological advancements, urging a careful balance between progress and responsibility.
As we move forward, it is imperative to recognize the potential dangers lurking beneath the surface of our interconnected world. The story of Myanmar serves as a somber reminder that, in our pursuit of connectivity, we must tread cautiously, ensuring that the web we weave does not inadvertently contribute to the unraveling of societies. Only through a holistic understanding of the digital and physical infrastructures can we hope to mitigate the risks and build a more responsible and connected future.
Written By:
Krrish Chhabra
