LGBTQ+ people in Middle East and North Africa subject to intense digital oppression, research finds

Research led by Article 19 and partners, based on over 5,200 participants across eight MENA countries, documents widespread police abuse of LGBTQ+ people facilitated through digital platforms, including entrapment via messaging and social apps, coerced biometric phone unlocking, device searches, and physical violence; it highlights heightened targeting of sex workers, trans people, and queer refugees and urges technology companies to strengthen privacy and safety features to reduce harm.