Did you know Pakistan's New Social Media Law Grants Government Extensive Control, Raises Human Rights Concerns

 

The lower house parliament in Pakistan just rolled out a new and controversial bill that gives the government full control over social meda. This can go as far as to imprison anyone for spreading false information online.

The bill swiftly came into play after lawmakers from the opposition chose to walk out as a way of showing their disapproval of the move. Critics strongly feel that the decision is impeding citizens’ rights to freedom of speech. Meanwhile, another top human rights activist shed light on how these new changes were designed to create more unrest in the country.

Pakistan has already been facing a lot of issues with the internet including blackouts and reduced speed. Citizens were seen shifting many offshore companies to different global destinations while the youth pleaded with the government to intervene as so many people’s futures were at stake.

Desperate calls for help on social media were made to Elon Musk to have his Starlink satellite services in action, to which he replied the company awaited government approval. One leading human rights activist shared more about how several authorities were set up under executive control to impede freedom of expression rights.

The law also provides sweeping powers to executives for the contents of a message even the messengers which means social media apps.

Dubbed the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, the government would design an agency holding power to order swift blocking of unlawful material that comes under offensive from different apps. Common examples include berating judges, the army, and any provincial assembly.

Any person or company that publishes the material could be barred from apps through this law. Similarly, all social media platforms working in the country need to register through the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority. Anyone failing to comply might face a ban, either temporary or permanent. This law categorizes all disinformation as a major criminal offense.

Punishments are harsh and could include three years of jail time with a fine of 2 million rupees or $7,150. As can be expected, the country’s union for media including journalists and editors blatantly rejected this bill on Thursday. On the other hand, the country’s information minister defended the law, claiming it was designed for the nation’s best interest. He also shared with the press how it was a positive step to curb disinformation and hate speech.