Accusations of complicity in crimes against humanity follow Telenor's data-sharing with Myanmar's regime.
Originally published on Global Voices
Telenor operated in Myanmar from 2014 to 2022. Photo by Bjoertvedt. Source: Wikipedia. CC BY-SA 4.0
This piece forms part of Global Voices’ October 2026 Spotlight series, “Big Tech and Authoritarianism.” We scrutinize the role of technology in enabling or resisting authoritarian regimes and the global implications.
Background on Telenor's Operations in Myanmar
Norwegian telecom giant Telenor is currently embroiled in legal troubles over its decision to share customer data with Myanmar's military government. Operating in the country from 2014 until 2022, Telenor built a subscriber base of approximately 18 million users.
Following the military coup in February 2021, Telenor encountered increasing pressure from the junta to adhere to its directives related to surveillance and censorship. Although the company ultimately chose to exit Myanmar, concerns intensified over the potential sale of its local assets to a military-affiliated entity.
Legal Proceedings Against Telenor
In December 2024, the activist organization Justice For Myanmar lodged a complaint against Telenor in Norway, citing violations of the Sanctions Act, although the initial claims were dismissed. A revised complaint was eventually submitted in October 2025, which included the severe allegation of aiding and abetting crimes against humanity.
The Norwegian government holds a 54% ownership stake in Telenor, prompting parliamentary investigations into the company’s actions in Myanmar. A parliamentary committee leader voiced concerns about how a state-owned entity could collaborate with a military regime that systematically represses the opposition.
Details of the Civil Class Action Lawsuit
A civil class action lawsuit was filed in April 2026 against Telenor by Myanmar citizens alleging the misuse of their personal data, with claims that sensitive information—including over 1,253 phone numbers—was handed over to the junta. Additional data disclosed included call records, location data, personal identities, and links to social media and banking information.
Among those filing suit is Tha Zin, the widow of Phyo Zeya Thaw, a lawmaker and rapper who faced execution after the regime accessed his account details. She expressed profound loss, highlighting the impact of her husband's death not only on their family but also on the pro-democracy movement in Myanmar.
"Losing him means a loss to the country—it's a tragedy that extends beyond personal grief," Tha Zin stated.
Investigations and Institutional Responses
The lawsuit has garnered attention from Norwegian authorities. In September 2026, Norway’s National Criminal Investigation Service executed a search of Telenor’s offices as part of the ongoing inquiry into the allegations of complicity in humanitarian crimes.
Activists welcome this investigative move as a vital step towards holding corporate entities accountable for their roles in undermining human rights. Justice for Myanmar’s spokesperson noted that Telenor's actions warrant scrutiny, especially those related to alleged data transfers to military-linked firms.
"This investigation could lead to real accountability for the harms caused to the people of Myanmar," the spokesperson remarked.
Telenor's Defense and Corporate Responsibility
Telenor has maintained compliance with regulatory inquiries, asserting its obligation to protect employees in Myanmar from potential reprisals by the military regime. Company representatives have argued that refusal to comply with junta demands could pose severe threats, including imprisonment of staff.
"The lives of our workers were at stake; we faced a grim reality with no viable alternatives," stated David Fidjeland, Telenor's media relations director.
Implications for the Tech Industry
This case underscores critical issues about corporate responsibilities in high-risk environments. Analysts assert that Telenor's situation is a pivotal reminder for companies that their obligations extend beyond their physical operations. As firms navigate the challenges posed by authoritarian regimes, they must be prepared for scrutiny regarding how they manage their users' data amid oppressive governance.
"We're at a crossroads where accountability must be prioritized. Companies would do well to anticipate the consequences of enabling state abuses," advised Faiz Naeem, policy analyst at Access Now.
The class-action lawsuit seeks damages estimated at EUR 9,000 (approximately USD 10,500) per affected customer, reinforcing calls for transparency and human rights protections.
