MTN Group has climbed to second place in the 2026 Ranking digital Rights Index (RDR), becoming the first emerging-market telecoms operator to enter the global top three.
The South African-headquartered operator said the achievement marks a significant milestone in its efforts to strengthen transparency, governance and the protection of digital rights across its markets.
The RDR Index is a global benchmark for corporate accountability in the technology and telecommunications sectors, assessing how companies uphold fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression and privacy, through their policies, governance frameworks and public disclosures.
MTN scored 42 out of 100 in the latest assessment, climbing from sixth place in the previous ranking to second globally.
The company said the result reflects continued progress in improving transparency and accountability.
According to MTN, the achievement was driven by higher scores across all three RDR categories, supported by stronger governance disclosures, the introduction of a comprehensive advertising content policy and enhanced measures to protect user data.
Commenting on the group's performance, Nompilo Morafo, MTN Group chief sustainability and corporate affairs officer, said: "Our progress in the Ranking Digital Rights Index reflects the deliberate steps we have taken to strengthen governance, enhance transparency and embed respect for digital human rights across our operations.
"Our journey on digital rights has been one of continuous evolution. As the landscape changes, we are deliberately adapting our approach, drawing on lessons from our experiences across markets and strengthening how we translate commitments into practical action."
MTN Group serves more than 312 million subscribers across 19 markets in Africa and the Middle East, where it operates in diverse and often complex regulatory environments.
The company said balancing digital inclusion with human rights considerations is becoming increasingly important across these markets.
MTN said it remains committed to improving transparency and disclosure practices, embedding digital human rights across its operations, strengthening governance and accountability mechanisms, and aligning with evolving global standards and stakeholder expectations.
Morafo added: "While we are encouraged by this progress, protecting digital rights is an ongoing responsibility. We will continue refining our approach to address emerging risks and ensure our customers remain at the centre of how we operate."
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