Global media watchdog names enemies of Internet

PARIS, France — Reporters Without Borders says the Arab Spring is changing the face of Internet freedom.

The media watchdog published its annual “Enemies of the Internet” report Monday, listing countries that curtail freedom of expression on and access to the Web.

The group has put Bahrain on its enemies list, citing a news blackout and harassment of bloggers in its attempts to quell a yearlong rebellion against the country’s monarchy.

Meanwhile, it has dropped Libya from its second-tier list of countries under surveillance after a revolt there that toppled Moammar Gadhafi.

The enemies list contains countries that are well known for blocking Internet content, like China, Myanmar and North Korea. But the list of those under surveillance contains some surprises like Australia and France.