Cathryn Grothe

Cathryn is a Research Analyst covering the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) for Freedom in the World, Freedom on the Net, and Election Watch for the Digital Age. Her research focuses on technology, democracy, and human rights in the MENA region. Grothe's writing has been published in various regional and international outlets.

Prior to joining Freedom House, Grothe worked at Women Deliver on issues related to humanitarian advocacy, gender-based violence, and refugee rights. She has extensive experience working with civil society organizations in Lebanon on gender equality programming.

Grothe holds a M.A. in international relations from the University of Chicago and a B.A. in political science and public health from New York University.

Selected Publications

In Lebanon, Elections Bring Cautious Hope - and an Uphill Battle for Reforms | Just Security - May 12, 2022

No More Voting in the Dark: The Need to Illuminate Iraq's Internet During Elections | Raseef22 - October 6, 2021

Amid COVID-19 Pandemic, Internet Freedom is Under Attack in the Middle East and North Africa | Freedom House Blog - January 19, 2021

Refugees and Asylum Seekers Need Coronavirus Protections, Not Restrictions | Freedom House Blog - April 27, 2020

Countering Iran's Brand of Digital Authoritarianism | Just Security - October 21, 2022

Talking Turkey: Ankara Punishes Online Dissent | CEPA - November 8, 2022

The Long Shadow of Qatar's Human Rights Abuses | Democracy Paradox - December 1, 2022