Sri Lanka's Controversial Internet Regulation Bill Approved Amid Criticism
The bill, criticized for potentially stifling free speech, comes as the nation grapples with an economic crisis and heightened public dissatisfaction.
- Sri Lanka's parliament has approved a controversial internet regulation bill, the Online Safety Bill, which allows the government to remove online posts deemed 'prohibited statements' and legally pursue those who publish such posts.
- The bill has been criticized by media, opposition lawmakers, internet and civil rights groups, and international entities like the US and the Asia Internet Coalition, which includes Apple, Amazon, Google, and Yahoo, for potentially stifling free speech and hindering economic growth.
- The Sri Lankan government, led by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, argues that the bill is necessary to address online fraud, abuse, and false statements that threaten national security and stability.
- Sri Lanka is currently dealing with an economic crisis that led to a $2.9 billion bailout package from the IMF last year, and the government has imposed new taxes and raised energy bills, leading to increased public dissatisfaction.
- Rights groups accuse President Wickremesinghe of attempting to stifle dissent ahead of the upcoming presidential election by cracking down on anti-government protests and arresting protestors and activists.
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