PNG Tests ICT Controls to Regulate Facebook Under Anti-Terrorism Act
Papua New Guinea Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jnr. has commended the successful trial of new ICT control systems aimed at ensuring responsible use of Facebook under the framework of the Anti-Terrorism Act 2024. The government has begun implementing measures to regulate social media content through collaboration with mobile operators and the ICT industry regulator. This development follows the Minister’s recent warning to Meta about addressing what he described as threats to national stability and decency.
Minister Tsiamalili praised the latest test, which was conducted in partnership with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA), and internet service providers. He highlighted that the new technology is designed to curb hate speech, misinformation, pornography, and other harmful content affecting the country. The move aims to promote responsible social media use while preventing the spread of malicious content that could endanger the public.
Facebook users in Papua New Guinea reported experiencing slow connectivity and disruptions on mobile devices, leading to concerns about potential government censorship of free speech. However, Minister Tsiamalili refuted claims that the initiative was aimed at suppressing public discourse. He stressed that the objective was to tackle the rising issue of fake news, hate speech, and online exploitation, which he argued posed significant risks to the nation’s safety and stability.
The Minister assured the public that the government’s intention was not to restrict freedom of expression but to ensure a safer online space. He emphasized that the widespread misuse of social media platforms, including Facebook, had necessitated intervention to protect users, particularly vulnerable groups such as women, children, and young people. The implementation of this technology, he stated, would enable authorities to monitor and regulate harmful content more effectively.
Minister Tsiamalili also called on Meta, the parent company of Facebook, to work closely with the PNG government in promoting responsible platform usage. He warned that if social media companies failed to take proactive measures against harmful content, the government would have no choice but to introduce stricter regulations. The Minister further stated that internet service providers would be required to ensure accountability in their operations by complying with government policies.
Despite the testing of the new ICT controls, it was observed that while mobile users experienced disruptions, access through desktops and direct ISP services remained unaffected. This indicated that the regulatory measures were primarily focused on mobile network providers. No official details were disclosed regarding the specific system service providers involved in the trial apart from state agencies and telecommunications operators.
Meanwhile, NICTA clarified that it had not been informed of any tests being conducted on social media regulation. CEO Kila Gulo-Vui stated that NICTA was investigating reports of Facebook disruptions and had reached out to Meta for further clarification. He reiterated the importance of transparency and collaboration in enforcing digital regulations. Gulo-Vui also stressed the need for a balanced approach that upholds both security and digital freedom, ensuring that any actions taken are well-communicated and align with the nation’s broader ICT policies.
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