Monday, May 25, 2009

Iran blocks Facebook

Iran has recently blocked access to Facebook.
I wonder why that would be. There has been no official reason given, but clearly this is to stop candidates using Facebook in the upcoming election. Or more precisely, one particular candidate has been using it effectively, and Ahmadinejad isn't. So he's banned it. "I'm not going to lower myself to using this effective Western technology, so nobody can."
That's not dictatorial is it.
I can see how Facebook would be a really effective front in an election campaign, especially in places where most media is controlled. Specialised apps, and even just groups can cut a blaze through relevant Facebook communities.
Have a look at the recent growth stats of Facebook here. (when the site returns)

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