Islamabad:
Information Minister Atta Tarar said on Wednesday that changes to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (PECA) and the creation of a new national agency are aimed at tackling rising digital threats – not suppressing freedom of expression.
Tarar said in Islamabad and said the legislation is designed to improve the responsibility of online space and protect vulnerable communities.
The minister’s remarks come in the midst of growing concerns about freedom of expression in the country. Earlier on Friday, an Islamabad court suspended an order that had banned 27 YouTube channels operated by journalists and commentators. The prohibition had been imposed by a lower right at the request of the newly created National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), which accused the channels of spreading anti-state and defamatory content. The move was activated in accordance with the provisions of PECA.
“These laws are not intended to suppress free expression,” he said. “Even the best democracies maintain systems of justice and accountability.”
He said the legislation seeks to make online space safer, especially for women and vulnerable communities.
“The digital space must protect, not jeopardize those who are already in danger in society,” he added.
Tarar warned that social media abuse is one of the most serious challenges of modern times. With reference to a World Economic Forum Report, he said the negative use of digital platforms represents a global threat.
“Fake news and propaganda are among the most dangerous issues facing society today,” he said. “Anyone can easily encourage violence on these platforms.”
He accused all political parties of contributing to the uncontrolled growth of online incorrect information and called for a national effort to promote responsible digital behavior.
Minister of Information noted the rapid expansion of social media and the shift from traditional pressure to electronic and digital platforms, as he said, developed with little supervision.
He urged political leaders to use their platforms to raise awareness of societal issues such as gender discrimination and patriarchy.
While entertainment and fashion accounts attract millions of supporters, he said, social media should also be used for constructive and inclusive dialogue.
“Social media had to work under a new framework to tackle real social problems,” he concluded.
