Mimeta Memos covered 44 cases of artistic censorship across 27 countries and territories, with 13 cases occurring specifically in January 2026. The month is defined by lethal escalation in Iran (at least 21 artists killed), structural platform censorship in the United States (TikTok ownership transfer), and a complex regional pattern centered in the Middle East (43% of cases) with significant pressure on artists in Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq.
Join the Civsy Monitoring Network
Document and analyze violations of artistic and civic rights with Civsy. Share verified reports, access real data, and promote global transparency and freedom.
I work carefully and imperceptibly below the surface when it comes to freedom of artistic expression. Deep down I stand by those who want to break it but remind them of realities above the surface. At the same time, the water becomes shallower. This is my duty as a producer.
(Faisal Kiwewa, Bayimba, Uganda.)
