Jordan blocks Discord as gen z protests spread

Jordan has abruptly blocked Discord, cutting off thousands of young users who relied on the platform to organise protests and exchange ideas, The New Arab reported in collaboration with Egab on October 16th.

The move follows similar measures across the region, as governments from Russia to Turkey and potentially Egypt crack down on youth-led movements that use digital platforms to coordinate actions beyond state oversight.

Discord had become a central hub for political discussion and activism, particularly for Gen Z groups that had learned from Morocco’s recent protests to turn online mobilisation into physical demonstrations.

In Jordan, authorities justified the Discord suspension as a child-protection measure, citing concerns about minors interacting with strangers online. Yet youth activists see it as part of a broader pattern of silencing dissent rather than addressing underlying economic and social grievances. “The real question isn’t about platform safety. It’s about why young Jordanians feel compelled to seek alternative spaces for expression,” said Mohammad Al-Absi of the Taharrak campaign.

Meanwhile, across the region in Morocco, Gen Z 212-led protests continued to demand better healthcare and education, with demonstrators criticising the government for prioritising World Cup infrastructure over public services. Initial demonstrations remained peaceful, but frustration over ignored demands and perceived inequalities quickly escalated tensions.

Violence erupted in several cities, including Inezgane-Aït Melloul, where police opened fire on protesters attempting to approach local authorities, leaving multiple casualties. Lootings, fires, and clashes were reported, highlighting the growing volatility of movements that begin online but manifest on the streets.

Observers suggest that the escalation reflects deeper social and political issues rather than simple unrest. Psychosociologist Mohcine Benzakour likened the phenomenon to crowd dynamics in stadiums, where heightened emotions can rapidly turn into conflict if authorities fail to communicate or negotiate with demonstrators. Such patterns show that youth mobilisation, whether in Jordan or Morocco, is fuelled by structural neglect, unemployment, and frustration with elites.

Analysts warn that technological bans and surveillance measures alone will not address the root causes of these protests. In both Jordan and Morocco, young people are seeking meaningful participation, economic opportunity, and social justice. Without substantive reforms, governments risk pushing their populations towards increasingly radical alternatives, perpetuating cycles of unrest across the Arab world.