Mali is the latest African country to impose a social media blackout
Internet users in Bamako, Mali reported not being able to use Facebook and Twitter after protests against the detention of a popular radio host on Wednesday turned violent. Mali follows similar restrictions in Gambia and Zambia. QUARTZ

PEN International joint recipient of Turkish Press Freedom Prize
The Turkish Journalists Association announced last week they were awarding a coalition of international press freedom organizations for their work “against the assaults on press freedom” and for “instilling in their Turkish colleagues the feeling that they are not alone.” 
PEN INTERNATIONAL

NJ Gov. Chris Christie signs law punishing boycotts of Israel
Legal groups say New Jersey’s new anti-BDS legislation might be unconstitutional and threatens the First Amendment. The ACLU warned that the law sets “a dangerous precedent for New Jerseyans’ free speech.” SALON

Bulk data collection vital to prevent terrorism in UK, report finds
An independent review of draft terrorism laws found that gathering large volumes of information from members of the public had a “clear operational purpose.” The findings were welcomed by the prime minister, Theresa May, but will be criticized by human rights and privacy campaigners. THE GUARDIAN

Man faces jail term in Dubai for Facebook link to charity
An Australian-UK citizen was locked up in a Dubai police cell after he posted a link on his Facebook page to an online campaign raising money for refugee children in Afghanistan, breaking a new law that bans “fundraising without permission.” THE TELEGRAPH

#SudanUnderSanctions: young people describe life on the blacklist
Twitter users share experiences of living in a country crippled by 19 years under America’s anti-terrorism embargo. They report blocked websites and services, difficulty traveling, limited scholarships and job opportunities, and a ongoing sense of isolation from the rest of the world. THE GUARDIAN

PEN’s Free Expression Digest brings you a daily curated round-up of the most important free expression-related stories from around the web. Please send your feedback and suggestions to [email protected]