Iran will expand its monitored national internet

Significance

Under development for over a decade, the NIN had its first major trial when Tehran imposed an internet blackout in response to mass protests last November, with mixed success.

Impacts

• Tehran could increase efforts to enforce bans on foreign social media applications.
• If dissent were to rise in Iran, citizens would likely become more suspicious of the NIN.
• Security services may become more overtly involved in internet access management.
• If Joe Biden wins in US November presidential elections, there is a high chance sanctions affecting internet access will be eased.