http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/8498034.stmLibya must stop blocking access to opposition websites and internet pages such as YouTube, US-based Human Rights Watch has warned.
The activists say Tripoli began a crackdown on 24 January, blocking several foreign-based sites reporting on Libya, and the entire YouTube site.
"The government is returning to the dark days of total media control," the group said in a statement. In December, the group praised Libya for allowing reporters to work there. But they said the latest move was a "disturbing step away from press freedom".
"These websites were the one recent sign of tangible progress in freedom of expression in Libya," said the group's Sarah Leah Whitson.
"Libya can stick its head in the sand and try to block the free flow of electronic information to its citizens, but the good news is we all know they'll fail."
"Whether in China or Saudi Arabia or Libya, citizens will always find ways to exchange knowledge and information, with or without their government's consent." The group said blocking websites was contrary to international agreements Libya had signed up to.
It seems many governments are very keen to put restrictions on internet use, although most have signed up to freedom of information. Typical political double talk. They say one thing and do another. Who can trust a politician?
