Government Introduces Social Media Policy to Improve Online Safety

The Minister for Information and Communication Technology, Hon. Timothy Masiu, has announced the development of a Social Media Policy 2025, aimed at addressing the risks and challenges posed by social media platforms.

Minister Masiu emphasized the need for immediate action to protect citizens, particularly vulnerable populations, from harmful online activities.

“Today, I reaffirm the Government’s commitment to addressing the challenges and risks posed by social media platforms in Papua New Guinea. Following my statement in Parliament on 28 November 2024, I wish to reaffirm the urgent need for policy intervention to create a safer, more accountable, and family-friendly digital environment that reflects our values as a Christian democratic nation,” Minister Masiu stated.

While acknowledging the transformative role of social media in communication, business, and connection, the Minister highlighted the darker side of these platforms.

“Social media has transformed the way we communicate, connect, and do business. However, alongside its benefits, it has also become a place that has facilitated illegal and harmful activities such as human and drug trafficking, cyber harassment, and the proliferation of explicit and harmful content. Our vulnerable populations, especially children and young people, are increasingly at risk of exploitation and negative influence in unregulated online places.”

The proposed Social Media Policy 2025 includes several groundbreaking measures designed to foster a safer digital environment:

• Restricted Access for Children: Individuals aged 16 and below will be restricted from accessing social media platforms deemed inappropriate.
• Mandatory Digital ID Verification: Citizens aged 16 and above will require a verified SevisPass (Digital ID) to access social media platforms in the country.
• Platform Accountability: Social media platforms operating in Papua New Guinea will be mandated to:
  
  • Legally register in the country and comply with national laws.
  • Route their traffic through the country’s Internet Exchange Point (IXP) to ensure transparency and oversight.

Minister Masiu noted the inspiration drawn from Australia’s recent efforts in protecting its citizens on social media:

“My Ministry recognizes and commends the recent efforts made by Australia in protecting its citizens on social media platforms. We will engage with the Australian Government to collaborate on best practices and harmonize efforts where feasible.”

The Social Media Policy 2025 will undergo public consultation in January 2025. This phase will involve additional baseline assessments to ensure the policy is evidence-based, socially inclusive, and aligned with the country’s socio-economic priorities.

“The policy will form the foundation for introducing new legislation or regulations as required to enforce these measures effectively. As Papua New Guinea continues its journey toward digital transformation, my Ministry remains committed to balancing innovation with safety, inclusivity, and accountability.”

Source: https://info.gov.pg/government-introduces-social-media-policy-to-improve-online-safety/