3 October 2023 01:16 am
The Asia Internet Coalition (AIC) has expressed its concerns about the Online Safety Bill, which was gazetted recently, calling it “draconian” and a blow to Sri Lankans’ “rights to expression”.
The AIC said it is concerned that the Sri Lanka government is moving the Online Safety Bill without undertaking any stakeholder consultation.
“The bill provides for a draconian system to stifle dissent and Sri Lankans’ rights to expression,” AIC Managing Director Jeff Paine said.
“While our member companies take seriously the online safety of those who use their services, legislation should not dampen innovation by restricting public debate and the exchange of ideas that can consequently impact the digital economy.
We strongly urge the government to work closely with industry stakeholders to develop regulations that are proportionate, reasonable, consistent with international best practices and most importantly, support the growth of Sri Lanka’s nascent digital economy,” Paine added.
The AIC is an industry association comprising leading internet and technology companies, including Meta, Amazon, Google and Apple.
The AIC seeks to promote the understanding and resolution of internet policy issues in the Asia Pacific region.
The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) also has expressed concern that the newly proposed Online Safety legislation, if adopted in its present form, would serve to crush free expression and further contract an already shrinking civic space in Sri Lanka.