Freedom House called on governments to protect satellite internet during shutdowns in a policy brief released on November 12, 2026. It focuses on Iran and talks on global radio rules due in 2027.
The group wants an exception to protect people cut off during war and other crises. It also seeks funds to lower the cost of gear. And it wants firms to resist state demands to end service. These are requests, not rules that states have agreed to.
Satellite internet still needs a working link
Freedom House says satellite internet can bypass the local networks that Iran controls. But a dish alone does not ensure access. The link still needs power, a clear view of the sky and service from the provider.
Starlink’s setup guide shows a dish linked to a router and power supply. The firm says trees, roofs or other things that block the sky can cause breaks in service. That can be a problem even when a state’s land-based networks are online.
Access can also be patchy during a shutdown. On January 12, 2026, three people in Iran told Reuters they could still use Starlink despite a wider blackout. NetBlocks founder Alp Toker said access seemed reduced. Reuters said the cause was unclear. Experts said signal jamming could be to blame.
Existing rules and a proposed exception
The debate goes beyond how the links work. A briefing for the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) sets out the rules. Private stations that send radio signals already need a license. It also cites rules for global satellite systems that provide public personal communications through portable terminals. States licensing these systems must ensure they operate only in territories that allow the service and stations.
The briefing sets out work for the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference, under agenda item 1.5. The talks cover ways to curb use of satellite terminals without state approval. They also address how to keep a country out of a system’s service area. The briefing lists options still under study. It is not a final ruling by the conference.
Freedom House sees Article 40 of the ITU Constitution as a base for stronger safeguards to help people in crises. It requires international telecommunication services to give absolute priority to messages concerning safety of life. It also covers World Health Organization messages about disease outbreaks and spread that are exceptionally urgent. But it does not itself grant broad rights to use satellite internet without a license during shutdowns.
The ITU says the conference will take place in Shanghai, China, from October 18 to November 12, 2027.
Sources: Freedom House, ITU agenda briefing, ITU Constitution, ITU conference schedule, Starlink setup guide, Reuters via Al-Monitor
