SECTOR 1

1.9 The state does not seek to block or filter internet
content unless in accordance with laws that provide
for restrictions that serve a legitimate interest and are
necessary in a democratic society, and which are applied by independent courts.
Even though the authorities lack the technological know-how to filter and control
web content, the sector is believed to be under perpetual surveillance, which
often results in crackdown. The jailing of an outspoken blogger and journalist
Arlsen Severin was linked to his online writings. Many also believed the suspicious
death of the Franco-Congolese blogger Bruno Ossébi – with most members of his
family6 in a fire at his Brazzaville home – was related to his disclosures of alleged
high level corruption in the country.
Many Congolese believe security operatives are tapping into their phone and
e-mail exchanges with the help of coerced service providers. In March-April 2013,
police arrested two teachers suspected to have sent text messages (SMS) to their
colleagues to organise a public manifestation that began on 25 February 2012.
Some fear that the government could have employed special agents just to
monitor and intercept electronic communication.
But due to the weak security of electronic communication in the country in
general, criminals who have nothing to do with the state, may also be hacking
into systems and hijacking email accounts. It is common for people to realise
that they no longer have access to their e-mail boxes, while someone is actually
sending e-mails from them.

Scores:
Individual scores:
1

Country does not meet indicator

2

Country meets only a few aspects of indicator

3

Country meets some aspects of indicator

4

Country meets most aspects of indicator

5

Country meets all aspects of the indicator

Average score:

6

82

2.2

Décret n° 2003-327 du 19 Décembre 2003 portant code de conduite des agents publics

AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO 2013

Select target paragraph3