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Managing

Managing shutdowns

Connectivity is an essential tool for the exercise of freedom of expression and access to information. Government mandated disruptions of electronic communications known as ‘network shutdowns’ limit these fundamental rights.Our policies ensure that we only adhere to shutdown demands where – and to the extent – that they are legally required. We advocate for governments to reduce their use of shutdowns so that everyone can fully benefit from connectivity.
Network shutdowns can be geographically targeted and therefore affect specific communities or be implemented nationally and apply to all communications and/or specific services (for example, data but not voice). When we talk about network shutdowns, we also include government mandated simultaneous blocking of mass communications platforms. Under its operating licenses, Vodafone must comply with shutdown orders when compelled to do so in accordance with local law. Globally, some governments also retain capability to block or restrict internet access without the involvement of the internet services provider. We have identified network shutdowns as one of our salient human rights issues.
Our approach

Our approach

Vodafone's approach to network shutdowns is governed by our Law Enforcement Assistance Standard (our 'LEA Standard'), under the Global Corporate Security and Resilience Policy, and our Human Rights (including Child Rights) Policy (our 'Human Rights Policy'). Our Human Rights Policy is informed by international instruments and guidance including the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the United Nations Global Compact Principles, the Global Network Initiative Principles and the UNICEF Children's Rights and Business Principles. Our Human Rights Policy requires that we seek ways to respect human rights, even when faced with conflicting requirements, and that we give special consideration to the rights of vulnerable groups. Our LEA Policy requires that when we assist law enforcement authorities, we do so only under certain carefully prescribed circumstances.

All shutdown demands must be evaluated by an appropriately qualified and senior solicitor of the operating company, to determine whether the demand has been issued in accordance with local law and whether the operating company has a legal obligation to comply. Our operating companies interpret applicable law and government demands as narrowly as lawfully possible to mitigate the impact on rightsholders. If a demand appears overly broad or unlawful, clarification or modification is sought from authorised officials.

Vodafone advocates for governments to end the indiscriminate use of shutdowns.

You can read more about our approach to shutdowns in our annual Transparency Report.

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Law

Law enforcement assistance

Law enforcement agencies frequently seek access to data to progress their investigations. We disclose all our work with agencies in our Transparency Report.

Human

Human Rights

We set high standards for upholding human rights among our workers, customers and the communities we serve. We align with UN principles and ensure our governance mitigates risks.