Gathering and Movement Restrictions to Curb Omicron Variant

On January 10, 2022, the Cabinet Division of the government issued an 11-point directive that prohibit all social, political and religious public gatherings at open spaces "until further notice." To enforce the rules, the government has set up mobile courts across Dhaka.

Introduced 13 Jan 2022

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Nationwide Lockdown and Army Deployment

The government imposed a strict lockdown including stay at home orders for citizens and the closure of offices and public transportation. The Army was deployed to enforce compliance with the order.

Introduced 30 May 2021

Issue(s): Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Refugee Camp Lockdown Order

Local administration imposed a lockdown order in five Rohingya refugee camps in southeastern Bangladesh. Movement into or out of the camps was strictly controlled and residents were ordered to stay indoors.

Introduced 21 May 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Restrictions on Public Health Officials' Interactions with Media

The Directorate General of Nursing and Midwifery has ordered all of its officials and employees at government hospitals to not to hold public discussions, issue statements, or provide opinions to newspapers or other mass media without prior permission. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has also ordered all health directorate officials to refrain from speaking in public or to the media without prior permission.

Introduced 17 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information

Type: order

NGO Affairs Bureau Circular on Scope of NGO Activities

Introduced 11 Jul 2021

Issue(s): Association

Type: policy

Under the pretense of preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the city of Cox's Bazar, the government of Bangladesh has intercepted and detained boats carrying hundreds of Rohingya refugees fleeing an ethnically targeted military crackdown in Myanmar. The refugees have been relocated to an uninhabited island off of Bangladesh's southern coast.

Introduced 7 May 2020

Issue(s): Discrimination, Movement

Type: practice

Arrests for Criticizing Government Response to Pandemic

According to rights groups, in two weeks since mid-March, Bangladeshi authorities have arrested doctors, activists, and students for "spreading rumors" and "misinformation" on Facebook, after they published posts that were criticizal of the government’s response to COVID-19. Most of the arrests were based on the 2018 Digital Security Act. The Information Ministry announced that it had formed a unit under the Rapid Action Battalion, the country’s primary counterterrorism unit, to monitor social media and various television outlets for “rumors” about COVID-19 cases.  

Introduced 31 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Militarization

Type: practice

Law on Measures to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 and other Deadly Infectious Diseases

The law makes evading self-quarantine a crime punishable by 6 months to 3 years in prison with 2 to 10 million reals (~$490-$2460) fines. Other crimes include non-compliance with COVID-19 administrative measures (including testing protocols, gathering caps that are subject to change, and movement restrictions) and obstruction of COVID-19 measures. 

Introduced 11 Mar 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: law

Law on National Management in the State of Emergency

The law provides the government with broad new powers during a state of emergency. These include: banning meetings and gatherings; restricting people from leaving their homes; mobilizing military forces; surveilling telecommunications "by any means"; banning or restricting news media that may harm "national security" or create confusion about the state of emergency; and other measures that are "suitable and necessary" to respond to the emergency. "Obstructing" the state's response to the emergency, or noncompliance with the response in a way that creates "public chaos," is punishable by up to 5 years in jail and a fine of up to 5 million riels ($1,200). Organizations found culpable of these offenses may be fined up to 1 billion riels ($247,000).

Introduced 10 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Association, Assembly, Emergency, Surveillance, Press Freedom, Expression, Privacy, Access to Information, Movement, Militarization

Type: law

Commune Lockdown and Movement Restrictions

The Siem Reap Provincial Administration ordered four communes and three villages in Siem Reap city under lockdown for one week (Slakram, Svay Dangkum, Kokchak and Chhreav commune and Ta Vien in Sala Kamroeuk commune, and Prey Thom and Sra Nge in Sra Nge commune). Public activities have been suspended and residents are forbidden from leaving their homes. Gatherings of more than 15 people are prohibited unless otherwise permitted by the relevant authorities. Offenders will face legal action and have their vehicles impounded.

Introduced 13 Sep 2021 Extended to 1 Oct 2021, when it was lifted.

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Curfew and Restrictions on Public Gatherings

The Siem Reap Provincial Administration imposed a curfew from 10PM to 4AM and banned public gatherings.

Introduced 13 Jun 2021 Extended through 7 August 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Harsh Enforcement of COVID "Red Zones"

The authorities classified six communes and parts of four others in Phnom Penh as COVID-19 “red zones." Residents of these areas face restrictive lockdown measures, including a ban on leaving their homes except for specific medical reasons. Authorities have denied access to local and international groups looking to provide assistance to those unable to access food or other necessities due to the lockdown. Police have reportedly enforced the red zones using violence, including caning violators. The Ministry of Information issued a statement ordering journalists to halt reporting from "red zone" areas and the government threatened legal action against journalists for violating this order. The gathering cap was increased from 15 to 50 people through at least 28 October 2021.

Introduced 29 Apr 2021 Extended through at least 28 October 2021

Issue(s): Association, Assembly, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information, Movement

Type: order

Phnom Penh Lockdown Orders

The lockdown orders prohibits individuals from leaving their residence if not necessary, suspends operations of non-essential workplaces or businesses, and prohibits gatherings. Lockdown orders for Phnom Penh have been repeatedly extended. 

Introduced 18 Apr 2021 Extended through 7 October 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

"Stop COVID" QR Code System

The government implemented a QR code system to assist with COVID contact tracing that lacks data privacy protections. The QR code system provides the government with user location data and whether the user has violated lockdown orders. Human rights groups raised concerns about the government's failure to explain how data collected by the QR Code system would be stored and used. 

Introduced 6 Apr 2021

Issue(s): Privacy

Type: practice

Disclosure of Personal Information

The Ministry of Health disclosed the identity and personal information of individuals who tested positive for Covid-19 in the media and published lists of these individuals on its social media site. The published details include name, age, sex, work place, home address, and in several instances, photos. 

Introduced 4 Dec 2020

Issue(s): Privacy

Type: practice

Arrests and Criminal Penalties for "Fake News"

According to police spokespeople, more than 40 people have been arrested for spreading coronavirus-related "fake news." A number of those arrested are affiliated with the dissolved opposition party, the Cambodia National Rescue Party. On October 5, 2020, a journalist who reported on public comments on COVID-19 made by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen was sentenced to 18 months in prison for incitement. Another journalist has been sentenced for incitement for criticizing the government’s response to COVID-19 on social media. Kouv Piseth, an online news journalist in Battambang province, was arrested and charged with incitement to commit a felony after criticizing the government’s use of China’s Sinopharm and Sinovac vaccines on Facebook.

Introduced 16 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Expression

Type: practice

Lockdown in Nanjing

Authorities in Nanjing imposed a lockdown on account of COVID-19. Residents living in medium-risk areas are required to stay at home.

Introduced 21 Jul 2021 Expires 8/4/21

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Lockdown in Yunnan Province

Authorities imposed lockdowns in areas of the city of Ruilin and Longchuan County on account of COVID-19. 

Introduced 7 Jul 2021 Expires 7/16/2021 (Ruilin) and 7/22/2021 (Longchuan County)

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Declaration of "Wartime Mode" and Lockdown

Authorities declared a "wartime" mode in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang. Authorities ordered lockdown measures, including banning all public gatherings, forbidding residents to leave their housing compounds, and requiring those who needed to leave the city to present a negative COVID-19 test.

Introduced 18 Jul 2020 Lifted on 9/1/20

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Declaration of a "Wartime Emergency Mode" in Beijing District

Beijing officials have placed 29 residential communities under a "wartime emergency mode" after a surge of positive cases in the district. Officials have ordered a lockdown of the district (all neighborhoods of the district will be closed immediately and all residents must stay home).

Introduced 13 Jun 2020 Lifted on 7/3/20

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Opinions on Strictly Punishing Violations and Crimes that Obstruct the Control of the Coronavirus Epidemic

The Supreme Peoples Court, the Supreme Peoples Procuratorate, the Ministry of Public Security, and the Ministry of Justice jointly issued COVID-19 judicial opinions to clarify standards in the application provisions of PRC's criminal law. According to the opinions, the commission of certain crimes during the period of epidemic prevention and control may be subject to heavier punishment. Notably, the opinions call to "strictly punish crimes of fabricating or spreading rumors in accordance with law," and criminalize a variety of types of dissemination of "false" information on information networks.

Introduced 10 Feb 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Expression

Type: order

Lockdowns in Hubei Province

On January 23, the central government imposed travel lockdowns on Wuhan and nearby cities in Hubei province, effectively confining an estimated 56 million people. Wuhan authorities also suspended all vehicle traffic, with limited exceptions, in the city center. Many residents in Wuhan expressed difficulties about access to medical care and other life necessities. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 23 Jan 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: policy

Harassment and Intimidation of Individuals

Chinese authorities have harassed and intimidated individuals who have sought accountability for the government’s pandemic response, including lack of access to medical care and sealing apartment doors to prevent people from leaving their homes. In Xinjiang, some residents were forced to take traditional Chinese medicine and were chained to buildings for purportedly violating stay-at-home orders. Those that sought redress for these abuses were harassed and intimidated with threats of detention, suspension of social media accounts, and locking individuals in their residences. Police warned human rights lawyers and activists not to comment on COVID-19 on the internet or to assist people seeking redress for COVID-19 related abuses.

Introduced 6 Jan 2021

Issue(s): Expression

Type: practice

Secret Detention of Opposition Figures under Pretext of Quarantine

According to rights activists, the Chinese government has detained opposition figures upon being released from prison, under the pretext of quarantining them. "Quarantines" in this context involve detention without families' knowledge, and deprivation of individuals' ability to communicate with the outside world while they are held in secret locations. On one occasion, a woman was held in "quarantine" in a windowless room for more than a month, even though she had been tested and quarantined before her release from prison. On another occasion, a human rights defender was detained in the midst of standard day-to-day activities, interrogated, and "quarantined" in a hotel 500 miles away. Local officials have suggested these types of detentions go even beyond emergency powers granted to the Chinese government under the national emergency law. 

Introduced 30 Jul 2020

Issue(s): Expression, Movement

Type: practice

Use of Surveillance Cameras to Enforce Quarantine

Local governments in China have been installing surveillance cameras outside the homes of persons under quarantine in several cities. Some people reported that cameras have even been placed inside their homes.

Introduced 28 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: practice

Mandatory Phone App Shares Data with Police

Citizens in hundreds of Chinese cities are required to install software on their smartphones that determines whether they should be quarantined or allowed into public places, based on their personal information and details of recent travel. The software tracks users' location and appears to shares data with the police. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 1 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy

Type: practice

Crackdown on Online Expression Related to COVID-19

The authorities arrested or detained numerous citizens for “spreading fake news,” “illegal information dissemination,” or “spreading rumors online” for sharing factual reports on public health concerns, including COVID-19. From January 1 to March 26, 2020, rights advocates documented 897 cases of Chinese internet users targeted by police for sharing information or online comments related to COVID-19. During the same period authorities charged 484 persons with criminal acts for making public comments about the COVID-19 crisis.

Introduced 1 Jan 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Expression

Type: practice

Hong Kong Chief Executive Invokes Emergency Regulations Ordinance to Postpone Elections

On July 31, 2020, the final nomination day for September 2020 legislative elections, Chief Executive Carrie Lam invoked the Emergency Regulations Ordinance. The Ordinance grants the Cheif Executive emergency powers, under which she announced that the legislative elections would be postponed by 1 year. In September 2021, Lam again postponed the elections to December 2021 citing COVID-19. During the delay, election reform bills were passed that reduced the number of democratically-elected legislative seats.

Introduced 3 Jul 2020 Delayed again in September 2021 to December 19, 2021

Issue(s): Elections

Type: order

Prevention and Control of Disease (Prohibition on Group Gathering) Regulation

The regulation prohibits gatherings of four or more people in order to combat the Covid-19 epidemic. The prohibition, which provides limited exemptions including for funerals and gatherings of government employees, is in place for 14 days. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 29 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: regulation

Government Access to COVID-19 Tracing App Data

The Hong Kong government now requires that some premises, including restaurants, movie theaters, gyms and other businesses, display a LeaveHomeSafe app QR code, making it mandatory for customers to scan the QR code or register their names, contact number and the date and time of the visit before being allowed to enter the premises. The government made LeaveHomeSafe mandatory for anyone entering government buildings, courtrooms, and public facilities such as pools and public libraries in November 2021. On November 1, 2021, five people were arrested for allegedly using a fake version of the app as they entered a government office. The app's personal information collection statement indicates that the app will share personal data related to confirmed COVID cases with the Health Department, where it could be retained for at least seven years, while other data could be shared or retained by other authorized departments and organizations "where necessary."

Introduced 1 Nov 2021

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: practice

Arbitrary Enforcement of the Restriction on Public Gatherings

Hong Kong police have aggressively enforced COVID-19-related restrictions on public gatherings against pro-democracy protesters. Activists and pro-democracy lawmakers allege that the police are selectively exercising their powers to suppress protests rather than to promote social distancing (other groups are largely allowed to gather with impunity). 

In 2021, Hong Kong’s annual June 4 Tiananmen vigil was banned on COVID-19 grounds for the second year. Hong Kong police arrested Chow Hang Tung, the organizer of the vigil.

Introduced 11 May 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Electronic Wristbands for Monitoring Quarantined Individuals

The government is using electronic wristbands to enforce quarantines. The wristbands are connected to a smartphone app and are used to ensure that individuals remain at home. Violations are subject to a $5,000 HKD fine ($644) and six months in prison. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy

Type: practice

Maharashtra Curfew Imposed Amid Omicron Variant Rise

The state government imposed a night curfew from 11 pm to 5 am and said no movement will be allowed within this period except for essential purposes. The government also barred the movement of people in groups of five or more.

Introduced 20 Jan 2022

Issue(s): Movement

Type: law

Ban on Political Rallies During Elections Amid Rising Omicron Cases

The Election Commission imposed a ban on political rallies and roadshows ahead of elections in five states - imposed amid an Omicran variant spike. The ban has been extended past its original expiration date of January 15 to January 22, 2022. Indoor political meetings will now be allowed, but subject to a cap of 300 people, 50 per cent of the hall's capacity, or the limit set by the state's disaster management authority. Large upcoming elections for five assemblies in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Goa and Manipur will be held in seven phases from February 10 and results will be declared on March 10.

Introduced 8 Jan 2022

Issue(s): Assembly, Elections

Type: order

Restrictions on Public Gatherings Ahead of Religious Festivals

The Uttar Pradesh government issued strict guidelines prohibiting gatherings of more than 100 people in advance of major religious festivals. 

Introduced 24 Sep 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Stringent Restrictions on Movement in Kerala

The government of Kerala issued an order imposing "special intensified stringent lockdown restrictions" in wards with a weekly infection population ratio above 10. The government of Kerala defined such restrictions in an earlier order from 28 August 2021 as being a restriction on movement from 10 pm - 6 am. There is a limited list of exceptions without obtaining permission from nearest police center. Such restrictions are imposed by individual state authorities, not the central government. 

Introduced 18 Sep 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Local Administrations Impose Lockdown Measures in Response to COVID-19 Variants

During a wave of COVID-19 in May 2021, different states in India began imposing lockdowns and restrictions. Local authorities have powers under The Disaster Management Act of 2005 and the Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897, which were invoked during the pandemic. Unlike the April 2020 lockdown imposed by the Central Government, local administrations have imposed these new restrictions in response to emerging COVID-19 variants. Measures include curfews and restrictions on gatherings. A total lockdown was imposed in May 2021 by state authorites when cases increased for a period of seven to fourteen days and was extended through June. The restrictions continued in districts where the COVID-19 positivity rate was high. While most states announced complete lockdowns, some states like Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand and Gujarat opted for partial lockdown restrictions. The Punjab state government imposed a 10 pm - 5 am curfew and shut down all schools from 4 - 15 January 2022 in response to rising Omicron variant cases. The government of Karnataka extended their ban on all protests and rallies through January 2022.

Introduced 15 Apr 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Order No. 40-3/2020-DM-I(A)

Order No. 40-3/2020-DM-I(A) empowers states and union territories to impose local restrictions, such as night curfews, without prior consultation with the Central Government. The order also mandates state and union territory governments to conduct "intensive house-to-house surveillance by surveillance teams formed for the purpose" within COVID-19 containment zones.

Introduced 25 Nov 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: order

Curfew & Restrictions on Movement and Public Gatherings

The Kashmir administration imposed a nighttime curfew and restrictions on movement and public gatherings (not more than 3 persons) in Districts of Kashmir Valley, citing COVID-19. The restrictions are in place for two days, ahead of the first anniversary of the revocation of the region's special status.

Introduced 3 Aug 2020 In effect through 8/5/20

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Lockdown Measures

The Kashmir administration imposed a complete lockdown in nine districts of the region, except for Bandipora district. Only agriculture, horticulture, construction activities are permitted. The movement of goods carriers, LPG and oil tankers is also permitted. 

Introduced 22 Jul 2020 Until 7/27/20

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Restriction on the Dissemination of Information Online (CP/XI (6)/144/(Prohibitory Order)/2020)

The Mumbai Commissioner of Police issued an order prohibiting the "dissemination of information through various messaging and social media platforms which is found to be incorrect, derogatory and discriminatory towards a particular community, distortion of facts, causing panic and confusion among the general public, inciting mistrust towards government functionaries and their actions taken in order to prevent spread of the COVID-19 virus and thereby causing danger to human health or safety or a disturbance of the public tranquility." Additionally, any person designated as an "admin" of a platform is personally responsible for whatever information is disseminated. 

Introduced 10 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Expression

Type: order

Prior Approval Required for Publishing Information about Coronavirus

The Maharashtra government prohibits organizations or individuals from publicizing information about the coronavirus without ascertaining prior clearance from relevant government health authorities, in order to avoid spread of misinformation.

Introduced 24 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information

Type: order

Order No. 40-3/2020-D on Measures to be Taken by States and Union Territories to Contain Covid-19

The order among other things provides for a 21-day ban on all social, political, sports, entertainment, academic, cultural, and religious gatherings. Violations of these and other provisions in the order are subject to penalty under Section 51-60 of the Disaster Management Act, and Section 188 of the Penal Code. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 24 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Maharashtra Public Trust (Amendment) Ordinance

The government of Maharashtra state amends the Maharashtra Public Trust Act 1950 with Section 57A, establishing a separate “Epidemic Disease Relief Fund & Disaster Relief Fund,” on account of the coronavirus. The amendments require all public trusts to contribute a percentage of their gross annual income to the fund.

See primary source or citation here

Introduced 10 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Association

Type: regulation

Mobile Phone Tracking and Mandatory Selfies to Confirm Home Quarantine

The Karnataka state government directs all persons in quarantine to send a "selfie" of themselves every hour from their home, failing which they may be housed in government-created mass quarantine centers. The directive mentions that the selfie image shall include location coordinates to inform the government of the sender's location, and that every selfie sent by a home-quarantined person will be verified by the government. The state government has also released a mobile application which reveals the addresses of COVID-19 patients. The mobile app for tracking of quarantined patients has also been adopted by the Delhi, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra governments.

Introduced 31 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy

Type: regulation

The Assam COVID-19 Containment Regulations, 2020

This set of regulations include "geographic quarantine, social distancing measures, enhanced active surveillance, testing all suspected cases, isolation of cases, home quarantine of contacts, [and] social mobilization to follow preventive public health measures." The regulations indicate that house to house surveys are to be used for surveillance purposes. Those surveys involved daily house visits by supervisory officers. Individuals believed to be infected were required to isolate at home until examination by a Rapid Response Team. Surveillance teams reported their activities daily to a central authority. All non-essential services were shut down. Containment zones were established and restrictions were imposed on movement into and out of containment zones. The regulations also indicated that "rumors and myths are to be strictly controlled by the administration." 

Introduced 31 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Surveillance, Press Freedom, Expression, Privacy, Access to Information, Movement

Type: regulation

Ministry of Home Affairs COVID-19 Guidelines

The Ministry of Home Affairs issued Guidelines for States and United Territories on COVID-19 containment measures. The Guidelines prohibit mass gatherings in areas designated as "containment zones" or in districts reporting more than five percent COVID-19 postivity rates.

Introduced 28 Sep 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: policy

Crackdown on Protesters Critical of Vaccine Export Policy

Police in Delhi arrested 25 people for putting up posters critical of the government's alleged policy of exporting more vaccines than it makes available to Indian citizens. Opposition politicians and rights groups expressed concerns about the crackdown's negative impact on criticism of government policies. 

Introduced 12 May 2021

Issue(s): Expression

Type: practice

Use of National Security Act to Threaten or Arrest Government Critics

The government charged a journalist with sedition under the National Security Act (NSA Act) for social media posts expressing criticism of the government's COVID-19 response. Additionally, Uttar Pradesh's chief minister threatened to use the NSA Act to seize the property of anyone, including health workers, who complained about a shortage of oxygen or other medical supplies for COVID-19 patients.

Introduced 25 Apr 2021

Issue(s): Expression

Type: practice

Surveillance and Arrests to Compel Mask Compliance

Himachal Pradesh Director General of Police issued an order authorizing district police officers to arrest without warrant anyone not wearing a mask in public places. The penalties are up to eight days in jail and fines of up to Rs 5,000. The Director General of Police also said that violations of mask and social distancing directives were being monitored by drones and CCTV cameras.

Introduced 27 Nov 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance

Type: practice

Denials of Protest and Demonstration Permits

Indian authorities have denied permits for protests or demonstrations due to COVID-19. For example, Delhi Police denied permission for a rally at the Jantar Mantar protest site in November 2020, citing COVID-19 and other restrictions. In December 2020, citing COVID-19 protocols, Uttar Pradesh authorities denied permission for a demonstration by the Samajwadi Party and detained various party leaders. Authorities also barricaded the road, which is just 200 metres away from the home of the party's president and close to the party's main office.

Introduced 11 Nov 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Arrest of Protesters and Activists

Over a matter of weeks, nearly a dozen prominent activists and potentially dozens of other demonstrators were detained while coronavirus restrictions blocked prisoners' ability to file bail applications and to meet with attorneys. Although the arrests mirrored practices that preceded the virus, the fact that the arrests were conducted during lockdown meant that activists were unable to quickly file responses to charges that human rights groups assert were brought on limited evidence. The arrests have had the effect of controlling dissenters' ability to protest social and political issues.

Introduced 19 Jul 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Expression

Type: practice

COVID-19 Crackdown on Journalists

Since the outbreak of the pandemic, state and national governmental actors in India have cracked down on journalists' coverage of the pandemic, and have employed lockdown measures in a way that adversely impacts journalists' ability to cover the pandemic. When writing critical coverage of governmental responses to the pandemic, journalists have been refused curfew passes, arrested under charges of spreading false information when covering governmental responses to pandemic, charged with acting negligently to spread infectious disease, heavily interrogated or physically assaulted by police, and charged with disobedience under the Epidemic Diseases Act. In at least one instance, a journalist was held incommunicado for 72 hours before finally being taken before a judge and charged. In July 2021, two newspapers were raided by tax authorities in a move widely believed to be retailiation for coverage critical of the pandemic response.

At a state level, the Manipur government used sedition laws against critics of its handling of the COVID-19 crisis. Notable journalists and activists were detained under India's National Security Act in Manipur for social media posts about COVID-19 alleged to endanger "public order." 

Introduced 27 May 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information

Type: practice

Mobile Phone Tracking App

The government has made it mandatory for all central government officials to use the government-built Aarogya Setu app on their mobile phones. The app alerts users if a person in their vicinity has tested positive for Covid-19. The government has also made the app mandatory in virus "containment zones" throughout the country. The app lacks privacy protections, with the use of both Bluetooth and GPS, and with little transparency about how the data will be handled.

Introduced 1 May 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy

Type: practice

Assam Anti-Disinformation Campaign

The Government of Assam filed charges against a Bengali daily published from Silchar, for carrying a false news report about the state’s first COVID-19 patient. The case was brought against the reporter who filed the story and the publisher of the newspaper under Section 188 of IPC and provisions of Assam COVID-19 Regulation, 2020. Additionally, Assam DIPR has formed a five-member committee for monitoring and checking fake news in all forms of media. The committee includes officials from the information, health, police and disaster management departments. The committee surveilled social media accounts and created WhatsApp numbers for the purpose of tracking information circulating on Whatsapp. As of April 8, 52 cases had been registered for spreading rumours/uploading objectionable comments on social media and a total of 25 people had been arrested, while eight were detained and then released.

Introduced 8 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Surveillance, Press Freedom, Expression, Privacy, Access to Information

Type: practice

Dispersal of Sit-in and Destruction of Protest Site

Citing a ban on public gatherings because of the Covid-19 pandemic, police in Delhi broke up a months-long sit-in protest against India's controversial new citizenship law. Police bulldozers destroyed tents and billboards at the protest site. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 24 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Hand Stamps to Enforce Quarantines

The government of Maharashtra state announces a policy to stamp the hands of individuals required to self-quarantine. The stamps indicate that the stamped person must stay at home for two weeks, and indicate the dates of the person's required isolation. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 17 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy

Type: practice

Ban on Eid Day Tradition of Mudik, Circular Number 13 of 2021

The COVID-19 National Task Force issued Circular Number 13 of 2021, banning the Eid Day Tradition of Mudik (exodus). From May 6 - 17, 2021 travel is restricted. Violations against this circular will be subject to fines, social sanctions, confinement and/or criminal charges in accordance with the law.

Introduced 6 May 2021 Expires 17 May 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Presidential Decree No. 11 of 2020 Declaring a Public Health Emergency

The decree declares the COVID-19 pandemic to be a "public health emergency," in accordance with the provisions of the law and regulations of Indonesia. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 31 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency

Type: order

Regulation of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, Number 9 of 2020

This order empowers sub-national leaders of regions impacted by COVID-19 to impose mandatory school and work vacations, restrictions on religious activities, restrictions on activities in public places or facilities, restrictions on social and cultural activities, and restrictions on public transportation. This order also activates the military for combatting COVID-19 domestically.

Introduced 3 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement, Militarization

Type: regulation

Government Regulation of the Republic of Indonesia, Number 21 of 2020

Under certain circumstances, local authorities are empowered to impose "large scale social restrictions," which entail forced academic and work holidays, restrictions on religious activities, and "general" restrictions on other "activities".

Introduced 31 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: regulation

Police Guidelines on Cybercrimes Related to Covid-19

The Police Chief issued an internal memo that provides guidelines for the Police on how to handle cybercrimes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Police asserted that (i) anyone insulting the President and other top officials in relation to Covid-19 policies will be charged under Article 207 of the Criminal Code (one and a half year imprisonment) and (ii) anyone spreading false information related to government policies in handling Covid-19 will be subject to Articles 14 & 15 of the Criminal Code (maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment). The police have arrested numerous persons on these charges.

Introduced 4 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Expression

Type: policy

Criminal Investigation of Street Artists for Criticism of COVID-19 Response

Law enforcement officials investigated street artists for painting murals critical of the government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Officials threatened to charge the artists with criminal defamation of the President and other criminal laws. Rights groups are concerned that this practice is aimed at chilling legitimate artistic expression related to the pandemic.

Introduced 20 Aug 2021

Issue(s): Expression

Type: practice

Use of Pandemic Restrictions to Disperse Protests

Police used pandemic  on gatherings and demonstrations to disperse a wide range of protests, including demonstrations regarding Papua's Special Autonomy, Omnibus Law, and workers' rights.

Introduced 31 Dec 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Pedulilindungi Contact-Tracing Application

The PeduliLindingi application traces users' movement in real time using Bluetooth technology. Civil society organizations have expressed concern about the government's failure to make the source code for the app available and about other ways in which the government's use of the app has fallen short of providing sufficient protection for data privacy.  It is unclear whether the data are stored on a central server, and it is unclear to what extent consent is needed for data to be shared.

Introduced 30 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy

Type: practice

Arrests for Spreading Coronavirus-Related Rumors

Several individuals have been arrested in Indonesia under allegations of spreading rumors and fake news related to the coronavirus pandemic.

Introduced 10 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Expression

Type: practice

Arrests for Spreading Coronavirus-Related Rumors

A spokesman for the armed forces stated on April 28 that 3,600 people in Iran have been arrested for spreading rumors regarding the coronavirus pandemic. Civil society groups and government agencies outside Iran, including the U.S. State Department, have criticized Tehran for persecuting journalists who reported on the epidemic without obtaining prior approval from the government, or who attempted to report on the real extent of the outbreak in Iran by contacting foreign officials for information. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 29 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information

Type: practice

Government App Tracks Location and Movement

The government released a mobile app, A19, that claims to be able to detect whether or not the user is infected with COVID-19. The app collects personal details including the user's name, address, and date of birth, and uses software similar to that used by fitness apps to precisely track and share the user's location and movements. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 3 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy

Type: practice

Restricting Internet Access

For 24 hours after announcing that a top adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader had died as a result of the coronavirus, the government blocked access in Iran to the Farsi version of Wikipedia. A digital rights advocacy group has also reported widespread internet disruptions at night in certain parts of the country, including Qom, where the outbreak is believed to have originated. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 2 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information

Type: practice

State of Emergency

The Prime Minister declares a "state of emergency" in Tokyo and six other major metropolitan areas, under Article 32 of the Act on Special Measures. The declaration does not impose restrictions on movement, but allows governors to request that individuals remain home and recommend to organizers that they cancel events. Violators are not subject to penalty unless they fail to comply with orders related to storing and shipping medical supplies.

In August 2021 the Prime Minister extended "state of emergency" in Tokyo and added seven other ares: Ibaraki, Tochigi, Gunma, Shizuoka, Kyoto, Hyogo and Fukuoka.

Introduced 7 Apr 2020 Lifted on 3/21/21 ; reinstated on 4/25/21 until 5/11/21 ; reextended until 5/31/21 ; reextended on 5/28/21 until 6/20/21 ; reextended on 7/12/21 until 8/22/21; reextended on 08/17/2021 until 09/12/2021

Issue(s): Emergency

Type: order

Restrictions on Access to Press Conferences

Although the state of emergency was lifted on the 25th of May 2020, the Japanese government maintained restrictions for journalists attending press conferences. The number of reporters authorized to attend the briefings has been limited to 29 (normally up to 100 are permitted). The government has also mandated an approximate limit of three questions per press club member and two per non-member, denied follow-up questions, and further requested that club members’ questions be submitted in advance.

Introduced 29 May 2020

Issue(s): Press Freedom, Access to Information

Type: policy

Ban on Mass Holiday Gatherings

Malaysia announced new COVID-19 restrictions in response to the Omicron variant. The government banned mass gatherings, covering the Christmas and New Years' holidays. Those attending private New Year and Christmas celebrations must undergo COVID-19 self-tests. 

Introduced 16 Dec 2021 Expires 31 December 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Enhanced Movement Control Order

The national government imposed an Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCOs) on areas with high COVID-19 rates in Sabah, Pahang, and Kelantan. These orders include strict stay at home decrees and restrictions on travel into or out of the affected area. Similar EMCOs have been issued throughout the pandemic in other areas of Malaysia.

Introduced 26 Jul 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Full Closure Order

The Prime Minister ordered a two-week nationwide "Total Lockdown" which closed all non-essential businesses and required people to stay within 10 kilometers of their homes.

Introduced 28 May 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

State of Emergency

Malaysia's king declared a state of emergency through August 1, 2021, to limit the spread of COVID-19. Among other things, the declaration suspends parliament, allows the government to enact laws without parliamentary approval, and postpones national elections. Parliament reopened 7/26/2021, after a 7 month suspension.

Introduced 12 Jan 2021 Expired 1 August 2021

Issue(s): Emergency, Elections

Type: order

Restriction of Movement Order

The order mandates a "complete restriction" of movement and assembly nationwide. The order closes all houses of worship, non-essential businesses, and all government and private premises, except for those providing essential services. The order also bars Malaysians from travelling overseas, and prevents visitors from entering the country.

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Repression of Peaceful Assemblies

The authorities have used pandemic regulations such as the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act (National Recovery Plan) Regulations 2021 to investigate and prosecute individuals for exercising the right to peaceful assembly. In June 2021, officals investiagted participants in "Black Flag" protests of the government's handling of the pandemic. In July 2021, law enforcement officials arrested 31 attendees of a COVID-19 memorial rally for alleged violations of COVID-19 rules, as well as Section 9(5) of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 for gathering without notice. The police also investigated and reportedly harassed doctors protesting unfair working conditions for allegedly violating COVID restrictions on gatherings. In 2020, Malaysian police arrested and charged members of the National Union of Workers in Hospital Support and Allied Services for carrying out a peaceful protest against low wages and working conditions. Police said they took action under Regulation 7 (1) of the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Regulations 2020. 

Introduced 19 Aug 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Arrest of Migrants for Violating COVID-19 Movement Control Order

Immigration authorites arrested hundreds of migrants for allegedly violating a COVID- movement control order and restrictions on public gatherings. The Home Minister said that the arrests would "protect Malaysians" and "help" migrants get vaccinated. The arrestees included refugees from Myanmar and other countries.

Introduced 21 Jun 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Discrimination, Movement

Type: practice

Repression of Criticism of the Government's Pandemic Response

The police charged artist Fahmi Reza under the Sedition Act for creating a Spotify playlist satirizing a controversial tweet by Malaysia's queen related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Fahmi and another artist are also facing criminal defamation investigations for cartoons critical of the official pandemic response. The day after Fahmi's arrest, the authorities arrested activist Mukmin Nantang and six others under the Peaceful Assembly Act for protesting the 14-day extension of strict movement control orders. 

Introduced 23 Apr 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Expression

Type: practice

Delayed Voter Registration and Arrests at Protests in Response

Citing COVID-19, the government delayed voter registration reforms that would affect more than 1.2 million young voters. Civil society groups filed a lawsuit challenging the delay and staged a large-scale demonstration. 11 individuals linked to organizing the were called for questioning under the Peaceful Assembly Act (PAA) for gathering without notification, and the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases (Measures Within Infected Local Areas) (Conditional MCO) (No. 4).

Introduced 29 Mar 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Elections

Type: practice

Contact Tracing App Surveillance

Police used data from the contact tracing app MySejahtera to monitor residents in districts under an enhanced movement control order. A civil society leader was arrested for social media posts criticizing the use of personal data by the police to infringe privacy.

Introduced 12 Nov 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Expression, Privacy

Type: practice

Restriction of Access to Information

The government limited access to information about the COVID-19 pandemic and government responses. Access to daily COVID-19 press briefings by the Defence Minister were limited to the state media outlets BERNAMA and Radio TV Malaysia (RTM). Similarly, in May 2020 only government-owned media were granted access to parliamentary proceedings, though this list was subsequently broadened.

Introduced 9 May 2020

Issue(s): Access to Information

Type: practice

Arrests and Criminal Penalties for "Fake News"

Malaysian authorities are arresting individuals for spreading "fake news" related to COVID-19. Individuals are charged with provisions of the Penal Code and the Communications and Multimedia Act that carry penalties of up to one year in prison and 50,000 Malaysian Ringgit ($11,400). (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 29 Jan 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Expression

Type: practice

Nationwide Lockdown Order

The military junta imposed a nationwide lockdown order prohibiting travel except for official duties or emergency situations. Local authorities in areas with high COVID-19 rates were authorized to impose stricter measures, including requiring people to request official permission to leave their homes.

Introduced 16 Jul 2021 Extended through 30 September 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Stay-at-Home and Curfew order

Authorities issued new public health orders extending a nightly curefew and travel restrictions, including a suspension on international passenger flights. Officials in areas with higher COVID-19 rates may implement stricter measures, such as more stringent curfew hours and requiring people to obtain permission from the local administration before leaving the area.

Introduced 16 Jul 2021 Extended through 30 September 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Stay-at-home order in Yangon region (Order 107/2020)

The Ministry of Health and Sports issued a stay-at-home order (Order 107/2020) in Yangon region. The stay-at-home order bars residents from travelling between townships. Members of several professions may seek an exemption to the travel restrictions (including doctors, emergency workers, and police officers). However, journalists are not exempted and the restriction stops the work of drivers of newspaper delivery trucks. Rights groups said the restriction would make it more difficult for news organizations to cover Myanmar’s national election, which is scheduled for Nov. 8.

Introduced 21 Sep 2020

Issue(s): Press Freedom, Expression, Movement

Type: order

Health Ministry Order on Movement

The Health Ministry ordered restrictions on the movement of residents in seven Yangon townships (Bahan, Insein, Hlaing Tharyar, Mayangone, Pabedan, Shwe Pyi Thar and South Okkalapa). Failure to comply could lead to up to 6 months in jail. Residents may only travel to and from work and must wear face masks at all times when outside. Only one member from each household is allowed to leave their home to buy groceries; two can travel together only for medical emergencies. Anyone needing to travel in larger groups must get permission from ward administrators. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 18 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Ministry of Health and Sports Order No. 37/2020

The order, issued under Article 21(b) of the Prevention and Control of Communicable Diseases Law, bans groups of 5 or more people from assembling, including for religious gatherings. The order provides limited exceptions for individuals gathering to carry out essential functions, such as government and factory workers.

Introduced 16 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: regulation

Media Blocked from Reporting on Vaccine Rollout in Rohingya IDP Camps

The police have reportedly prevented journalists from covering COVID-19 vaccination efforts in camps for internally displaced Rohingya.

Introduced 10 Sep 2021

Issue(s): Discrimination, Press Freedom, Expression

Type: practice

Arrests and Criminal Penalties for Exercising the Right to Freedom of Expression

Myanmar authorities have prosecuted several individuals, including human rights defenders and journalists, who have criticized the government response to Covid-19 or shared information on Covid-19. They were  held on numerous charges (spreading misinformation, defamation, sedition, "causing fear or alarm to the public") based on different provisions of the Myanmar's Penal Code, the Telecommunications Act, or the Natural Disaster Management Law.  

Introduced 21 May 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression

Type: practice

Widespread Arrests for Curfew Violations

At least 500 people were sentenced to between one month and one year in prison for curfew and quarantine violations from late March to late May. 

Introduced 20 May 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: practice

Labor Activists Imprisoned for Breaking COVID-19 Orders

Six labor rights activists, including two union leaders, were sentenced to three months imprisonment for leading strikes which violated COVID-19 orders. They were sentenced, inter alia, for “wilful failure to comply” with government directives for “natural disaster management” under section 30a of the Natural Disaster Management Law; for defying the governemnt ban on gatherings of five people or more; and for violating a night-time curfew under section 188 of the Penal Code.

Introduced 5 May 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Jail sentences for violating COVID-19 movement restrictions

Myanmar authorities have sentenced at least 500 people to between one month and one year in prison for violating curfews, quarantines, or other movement control orders.

Introduced 30 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: practice

Mass Censorship

Between March 19 and 31, 2020, the Ministry of Transport and Communications issued directives to major telecommunications companies in Myanmar under Section 77 of the Telecommunications Law, which allows the Ministry to take restrictive actions during "emergencies". The directives ordered telecommunications companies to block access to nearly 70 websites based on claims they spread "fake news" surrounding the pandemic. The blockages have received significant criticism from both domestic and international civil society organizations. 

Introduced 31 Mar 2020 In early September, three websites were reopened.

Issue(s): Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information

Type: practice

Ban on Public Gatherings

The Nepali government banned assemblies of more than 25 people for cultural, social and religious activities at party palaces, temples, monasteries, mosques, churches, and other religious and public spaces.

Introduced 18 Mar 2020 Temporarily renewed in Kathmandu on 8/19/2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Decision by the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration Regarding Implementation of the COVID-19 Action Plan

Nepal has not invoked a state of emergency but has regulated the COVID-19 situation pursuant to its Infectious Disease Act, 1964, amended in 2020. A nation-wide lockdown, issued as per Section 2, Infectious Disease Act, 1964, has restricted movement and banned gatherings of 25 or more. Movie theaters, cultural centers, theaters, playgrounds, gyms, health clubs, museums, and swimming pools were closed. Vehicle capacity for public transportation was limited.

Introduced 22 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: regulation

NGO Budgeting Guidelines on COVID-19 Support

The government issued a request to domestic and international NGOs to divert between 5-20 percent of their annual budgets to COVID-19 relief and preparedness. 

Introduced 2 May 2021

Issue(s): Association

Type: policy

Police Brutality in COVID-19 Lockdown Enforcement

Police enforcement of lockdowns led to 187 cases of human rights violations, including 30 incidents involving excessive use of force by police against citizens.

Introduced 21 Jul 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: practice

Intimidation and Harassment of Journalists Reporting on COVID-19

There have been ongoing threats and attacks against journalists by government actors in Nepal for their reporting on the COVID-19 pandemic.  Police have detained reporters for the act of reporting during lockdown on multiple occasions. In at least some cases, the relevant reporters were covering the impact of the pandemic on Nepali society and the government’s handling thereof.  Public health workers have threatened a journalist for reporting on the smuggling of medical supplies. One reporter was beaten by soldiers for photographing a lockdown checkpoint.  A parliamentarian threatened a bureau chief for reporting that the parliamentarian’s wife had violated lockdown restrictions. Additionally, a leader of an opposition party was at one point phoned and threatened by a politician after reporting that the politician had not cooperated in quarantining someone suspected of carrying the virus. 

Introduced 3 Jul 2020

Issue(s): Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information, Militarization

Type: practice

Arrest of Peaceful Protesters and Use of Excessive Force

At least ten peaceful protesters demanding better testing and quarantine facilities for returning migrant workers were arrested for violation of lockdown orders. Police have responded to protests with force, using water cannons, batons and tear gas to disperse protesters. 

Introduced 13 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Expression, Movement, Militarization

Type: practice

Prison Sentences Imposed for Violation of Lockdown Order

On June 11, 2020, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced that the Council of Ministers had acted upon its authority under the Infectious Diseases Act of 2020 in order to institute penalties of imprisonment or fines for anyone who disobeyed lockdown regulations. 

Introduced 11 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: practice

Closure of Online News Portals

The Press Council, an independent statutory authority, shut down 17 online news portals for allegedly publishing disinformation related to Covid-19. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 16 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression

Type: practice

Lockdown of Punjab

The Punjab government ordered a complete lockdown to restrict movement during the pandemic. Military personnel were deployed at the entry and exit points to major cities. The lockdown was eased but remained in place in at least 35 districts as of October 2021.

Introduced 8 May 2021 Extended in at least 35 districts through October 2021

Issue(s): Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Ministry Order Deploying Military Forces

The Ministry of Interior order authorizes the deployment of Pakistan Army troops "in connection with the prevailing situation related to the spread of COVID-19 and matters ancillary thereto."

Introduced 23 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Militarization

Type: order

Lockdown of Sindh Province

The government of Sindh province issues a complete ban on movement and gatherings of any kind for any purpose at any place, with limited exceptions for gatherings of essential workers.

Introduced 22 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Localized Movement Restrictions

The municipal authorities in Islamabad introduced localized movement controls in response to surging COVID-19 rates. Particular streets have been cordoned off by the capital police to control entry/exit. 

Introduced 11 Sep 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: regulation

Arrests of Student Protestors

Students across Pakistan have been protesting against mandatory online classes because they lack reliable internet service and/or cannot afford devices for online learning. Arrests of protesters took place in Balochistan and students were charged with organising a rally during a lockdown. 

Introduced 25 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Use of Counter-terrorist Tactics to Track COVID-19

The Pakistani government has involved the Inter-Services Intelligence agency in tracking the spread of the coronavirus. Geo-fencing and phone-monitoring systems normally used to track militant non-state actors have been employed to monitor neighborhoods on lockdown and to listen in on conversations COVID-19 patients have with their contacts to assess whether contacts have shown symptoms. In June 2020, two Pakistani reporters were tortured by the Anti-Terrorism Force for covering a protest at a quarantine centre on the Afghan border. 

Introduced 28 May 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Press Freedom, Privacy

Type: practice

Act No. 11469 for the Nation to Heal As One

The law grants the president numerous broad and exceptional powers to deal with the pandemic. The law also provides in Section 6(6) that "spreading false information regarding the COVID-19 crisis on social media and other platforms" is punishable by up to two months in jail and fines of up to one million pesos ($19,500).

Introduced 24 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Expression

Type: law

Granular Lockdown System

The Philippine government piloted a new framework which establishes a “granular lockdown” (smaller, more localized quarantines) and alert level system. The new framework placed the National Capital Region (NCR) under Alert Level 4 beginning September 16. As of September 27, at least 294 areas in the National Capital Region were under granular lockdown, including individual houses, streets, and buildings.

Introduced 16 Sep 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Proclamation No. 929 Declaring a State of Calamity

The executive proclamation declares a nationwide "state of calamity" under Section 15(2) of the Constiution, due to the coronavirus, for six months unless lifted or extended as the circumstances may warrant." The proclamation imposes an enhanced community quarantine throughout the island of Luzon, which includes the capital Manila, from March 17 to April 13. It also directs all law enforcement agencies, "with support from the Armed Forces," to take "all necessary measures" to ensure order in affected areas.

Introduced 16 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Resolution No. 11

The order imposes a variety of community quarantine measures on the Metro Manila area. The order calls upon the Armed Forces of the Philippines to ensure the effective and orderly implementation of the lockdown measures. 

Introduced 12 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Proclamation No. 922 Declaring a State of Public Health Emergency

The proclamation declares a "state of public health emergency" under section 15(2) of the Constitution, and authorizes deployment of the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies to provide assistance in addressing Covid-19. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 8 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency

Type: order

Police Ordered to Arrest Mask Violators

In a pre-recorded public address, President Duterte told police to arrest and detain Filipinos who are improperly using face mask in a bid to “protect the public” against COVID-19.

Introduced 6 May 2021

Issue(s): Militarization

Type: practice

StaySafe Contact Tracing App

The government has required the use of the StaySafe contact tracing app. Rights groups criticized the app for insufficient privacy safeguards and the government's failure to provide information on whether the app will be used for non-pandemic surveillance.

Introduced 4 Dec 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy

Type: practice

Police deployed to find COVID cases

The government has authorized the police to accompany health workers in visits to peoples' homes, searching for individuals with COVID-19. Under the policing plan, called operation Oplan Kalinga ("Care Strategy"), police may take any COVID-19 positive individuals to private quarantine facilities if they are unable to satisfy the requirements of home quarantine (such as having their own bathroom, and not residing with elderly or pregnant people). The door-to-door visits by police echo the government's tactics in their "war on drugs," in which police have killed thousands of people, including hundreds during the pandemic.

Introduced 15 Jul 2020

Issue(s): Privacy

Type: practice

Arrests for Spreading "Fake" News about COVID-19

As of April 6, at least 32 people have been arrested in the Philippines for spreading "fake" news about the coronavirus. The government of the Philippines has also established a website, which indicates that spreading false information "that may affect overall unified response to the COVID-19 pandemic" is a criminal act, and sharing a tipline and a Facebook page where community members can report "fake news and other cybercrimes."

Introduced 9 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information

Type: practice

The COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Act 2020

Among other things, the law allows the Health Minister to enact "Control Orders" for the purpose of preventing or controlling COVID-19 transmission, including orders to restrict the movement of or contact between people; limiting access to certain places; and prohibiting or restricting participation in any event or gathering in any premises. Failure to comply with the orders may be punished with a fine of up to $10,000, and jail for up to six months. Multiple violations of the rules will result in a doubled penalty. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 7 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: law

Preliminary Campaigning Guidelines for General Election Under COVID-19

Singapore's Elections Department released guidelines that ban large public gatherings during the campaign period, citing the COVID-19 pandemic. Such gatherings include rallies and pre-result election meetings. 

Introduced 18 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Elections

Type: order

Order to Block Websites of Political Critics

The government of Singapore ordered Facebook to disable Singapore users’ access to the pages of the Singapore States Times (a news site that shifted its activity to Facebook) and political dissident Alex Tan. The government issued the order under Section 34 of the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (POFMA) over information published on various issues, including Covid-19. The government also requested to disable Singapore-based users’ access to the National Times Singapore page, also administered by Alex Tan.

Introduced 17 Feb 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Expression, Access to Information

Type: order

Amendment to the Employment of Foreign Manpower (Work Passes) Regulations 2012

The amended regulations impose a new requirement on most migrant workers living in Singapore, such that they must obtain permission from their employer before they may leave their living facilities. The amended regulations refer to Singapore's COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations of 2020, but they are not pegged to those regulations or otherwise time-limited. As of late June, an estimated 94% of COVID-19 cases in Singapore were migrant workers living in crowded dormitories.

Introduced 2 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Discrimination, Movement

Type: regulation

The COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulation 2020

The regulations ban gatherings among any individuals who do not live together. Gatherings in public spaces are also prohibited. The regulations further limit the reasons for which people are allowed to leave their homes. Failure to comply with these rules may be punished with a fine of up to $10,000, and jail for up to six months. Multiple violations of the rules will result in a doubled penalty. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 7 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: regulation

Foreign Workers Required to Use Tracing App

The Minister of Health has ordered that all migrant workers living in dormitories must download the national contact tracing app, TraceTogether, by June 19. The app, which is not mandatory for other residents, requires that users register with their foreign identification number or passport number. A separate app, the SGWorkPass, indicates which migrant workers are allowed to leave their dormitories and resume work. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 16 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Discrimination, Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: policy

SafeEntry Tracing App

Businesses and certain other venues are required to use the SafeEntry system, which allows visitors to check into and out of their premises by scanning their smartphones or identification card. The system is linked directly to the Minister of Health. The website for the system indicates that "data collected by SafeEntry is only used by authorised personnel, and stringent measures are in place to safeguard the data in accordance with the Government’s data security standards." (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 9 May 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy

Type: practice

Amendments to Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act No. 14286

Allows the government to criminally prosecute suspected patients who refuse to get tested for the virus with a fine of up to 3,000,000 KRW (~$3,000). The amendment also significantly increases the potential penalty for breaking quarantine to up to one year of imprisonment or a fine of 10,000,000 KRW (~$10,000) for the offense. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 4 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: law

Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act No. 14286

The Act, amended following the MERS epidemic in 2016 and again in 2020, gives the minister of health extensive legal authority to collect private data, without a warrant, from individuals already confirmed or suspected of having an infectious disease. The Act allows authorities to send the whereabouts of certain patients to all smartphones in the patients' vicinity via an emergency text. The Act also allows authorities to restrict or prohibit performances, assemblies, religious ceremonies, or any other large gathering of people.

Introduced 2 Dec 2016

Issue(s): Assembly, Surveillance, Privacy

Type: law

Restrictions on Gatherings and Nightlife

A nationwide ban on gatherings involving more than four unvaccinated people was reinstituted in summer and again in late fall of 2021 due to rising cases. It was amended on Oct. 18, 2021 to allow private gatherings of up to ten people in locations other than Greater Seoul, if six of the participants are fully vaccinated. New social distancing rules put in place in mid-December through early 2022 ban gatherings of five or more people and require eateries and night-time entertainment businesses to close by 9pm.

Introduced 22 Aug 2021

Issue(s): Association, Assembly

Type: order

Use of COVID-19 Laws to Restrict Labor Protests

The Seoul city government filed a police complaint against dozens of youth Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) protesters for staging "illegal" protests violating the infectious disease prevention law (only one-person protests are allowed in the capital and surrounding areas under current social distancing rules). The protesters from South Korea's main labor group were dressed as characters from "Squid Game" and were demanding more jobs and better work conditions.

Introduced 21 Jan 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Restrictions on Public Gatherings

Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) raised its epidemic warning to Level 3 nationwide, limiting gatherings to five people indoors and ten people outdoors.

Introduced 19 May 2021 Extended through 14 June 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Electronic Security Monitoring System

The monitoring system tracks individuals using the GPS on their mobile devices. The system sends warning text messages to quarantined individuals who attempt to leave their homes, as well as to local government officials and the Central Epidemic Command Center. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy

Type: practice

Hanoi Lockdown Order

The government imposed a 15-day lockdown in the capital Hanoi and banned gatherings of more than two people in public. 

Introduced 24 Jul 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Ho Chi Minh City Lockdown Order

Lockdown decree prohibts gatherings of more than two people and imposes a stay at home order. 

Introduced 9 Jul 2021 Extended through 1 October 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Directive 16/TT-TTg on Implementation of Urgent Measures for Prevention and Control of COVID-19

The directive requires people to self-isolate at home. Exceptions include buying food or medicine, working at factories or production facilities trading in essential services and goods, and other emergency cases. The directive also requires that people maintain an interpersonal distance of at least two meters, and not gather in groups of more than two people outside of the workplace, schools, hospitals, and businesses that are allowed to remain open. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 1 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Ban on Gatherings

The Prime Minister ordered local authorities to ban public gatherings of more than 10 people. The order is effective from the 28 March 2020, with no specified end date.

Introduced 26 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Drone Surveillance of Quarantine Zones

Authorities in Da Nang implemented a trial drone surveillance initiative to monitor local residents' compliance with stay at home orders, especially in quarantine zones and in urban areas.

Introduced 29 Aug 2021

Issue(s): Surveillance

Type: practice

Covid-19 Contact Tracing App Raises Privacy Concerns

Bluezone is a contact-tracing app developed by leading Vietnamese internet security company Bkav and the Ministry of Information and Communications to detect Covid-19 exposure. According to state media, the app has been downloaded more than 20 million times and used to trace 1,400 people suspected of infection. Using GPS or Bluetooth technology, these apps can access users’ personal information as well as the locations and the people they have been in contact with. The MIT Technology Review’s Covid Tracing Tracker has scored Bluezone two stars,  flagging the app for not limiting the use of data it collects and for not indicating whether the data would be destroyed later on.

Introduced 20 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy

Type: practice

Fines Issued Under Decree 15/2020/ND-CP regarding Law on Cyber Security

The Government's Department of Information and Communications has fined hundreds of individuals for posting incorrect information about the coronavirus outbreak. The fines are based on the Law on Cyber Security, which prohibits the spread of "fake news," broadly defined to include not only incorrect or misrepresented information, but also slander, insulting a person's "honor and dignity," and "causing confusion." Decree 15/2020/ND-CP, which came into effect on April 15, imposes fines of VND10m to VND20m ($425-$850) for posting or sharing fake news online.

Introduced 15 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Expression

Type: practice