This chapter presents the interplay between freedom of expression, social movements, and the Internet. It engages in theoretical and conceptual discussions, exploring how the Internet serves as a safe platform for social activism to understand how power contestation for media representation led social movements in the global south to adapt to the digital era. It then provides a brief overview of the legal frameworks governing freedom of expression online. Drawing on the empirical literature, the chapter examines the contributions of the developmental state political ideology in introducing and controlling the Internet. Prior movements, such as the 1970s students’ revolution and the post-2005 election protests, are discussed to examine the evolving role of the media in organizing and leading movements in dictatorial regimes. This chapter concludes with a brief note about the 2015 Oromo protest, emphasizing the role of the Internet in mobilizing dissent against oppressive governments.