Pakistan all set to unveil new body to ‘regulate’ social media

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is all set to unveil a new authority to regulate social media, a move many believe could limit the freedom of expression on social networking websites.

The Hum Investigation Team has learnt that the government will establish the “Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA) to regulate social media platforms.

Sources said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the final draft of the legislation for the establishment of the new authority to regulate social media by allowing amendments to the PECA Act 2016.

“Ministry of IT &Telecommunication has deliberated upon the establishment of Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA) under PECA, 2016 to address the dynamic digital vulnerabilities, experienced by individuals, business fora and by National Security Apparatus,” read a document approved by the cabinet law reforms committee.

“The DRPA will be a significant step towards safeguarding and protecting digital rights and it could play a crucial role in ensuring that citizens’ rights are protected in the digital realm,” read the documents.  “The proposed DRPA is to be established with its main office in Islamabad and will be tasked with safeguarding digital rights and ensuring online safety,” it added.

“DRPA will advise the government on digital rights-related matters, promote education about online safety, and responsible internet use, facilitate collaboration with social media platforms to ensure compliance with regulations and promote a positive digital echo system. Other functions of DRPA include regulating online content, investigating violations, and prosecuting offenders.

DRPA may summon individuals for testimony, issue directives, enter into contracts and make rules to enforce digital rights laws,” read the document. Through these actions, DRPA will create a secure and trustworthy digital environment while promoting user safety and protecting fundamental rights in the online sphere, officials said.

The draft PECA (Amendment) Bill, 2024 was sent to the Ministry of Law & Justice from a legal perspective and the Ministry of Finance for recording views on financial implications. The draft Bill duly vetted by the Ministry of Law &Justice to amend the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 (XL of 2016) and to be tabled before the Parliament soon.

The authority will facilitate cooperation with social media platforms to ensure compliance with regulations and promote a positive digital ecosystem. The authority would regulate online content, investigate violations of the law on social media, take legal action against offenders in light of the new PECA law, and summon any citizen for an inquiry.

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The new authority will also be able to issue instructions to institutions related to cyber matters. The DRPA would be able to enter into agreements with anyone and make rules to implement digital rights laws. This authority will create a safe and reliable digital environment while promoting user safety and protecting fundamental rights in the online realm.