In recent years, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, connecting people across the globe and facilitating the exchange of information and ideas. However, as the popularity of social media has grown, so too have concerns about the potential negative effects it can have on society. In Sri Lanka, the government has implemented a number of laws and regulations to address these concerns and regulate the use of social media.
The primary piece of legislation governing social media in Sri Lanka is the Computer Crimes Act No. 24 of 2007. This act criminalizes various online activities, including the unauthorized access or interference with computer systems, the distribution of malware or viruses, and the dissemination of false information. It also contains provisions related to cyberbullying and online harassment.
Another important regulation related to social media in Sri Lanka is the Code of Ethics for Social Media, which was introduced by the Sri Lanka Press Council in 2018. The code outlines a set of guidelines for journalists and other media professionals using social media, emphasizing the importance of accuracy, fairness, and impartiality.
In addition to these regulations, the Sri Lankan government has also implemented measures to combat the spread of misinformation and hate speech on social media. In 2019, the government introduced a set of guidelines for social media use, which require social media platforms to remove content that is deemed to be offensive or harmful within 24 hours of it being reported.
Despite these efforts to regulate social media, there have been concerns about the potential for government overreach and violations of free speech. In 2018, Sri Lanka temporarily blocked access to several social media platforms, including Facebook and WhatsApp, following a wave of violent incidents fueled by misinformation and hate speech on these platforms.
In conclusion, social media regulations in Sri Lanka are designed to address concerns about the negative effects of social media while protecting free speech and the flow of information. While there have been concerns about government overreach, these regulations are an important step towards creating a safer and more responsible online environment in Sri Lanka. As social media continues to evolve, it is likely that these regulations will be subject to ongoing review and revision in order to keep pace with changing technology and social trends.
