Online Safety Bill – clear attempt to suppress social media, say CSOs

Civil Society Organisations in Sri Lanka yesterday voiced their dissent against the Government’s efforts to introduce a new Online Safety law, alleging that it represents a blatant State-driven endeavour to curtail the use of social media within the country. 

Holding a joint press conference in Colombo, the organisations highlighted the dangers of the bill and called for its immediate withdrawal. 

Addressing the press conference, activist Sanjaya Karunaratne maintained that the Government’s efforts to diminish the country’s democratic freedoms serve as evidence of its inability to stimulate and advance the nation’s economy. “They are primarily focused on restricting our capacity to discuss their actions and to merely maintain their grip on power,” he remarked.

Darshatha Gamage, representing the youth organisation Hashtag Generation, raised the question of whether the Government is attempting to usher in another dark period. “Young professionals are leaving the country in large numbers due to the lack of freedom to lead fulfilling lives in Sri Lanka. If the Government persists in restricting the already limited freedoms, it will be unable to prevent further youth exodus,” he opined. 

Meanwhile, senior journalist Lasantha Ruhunage took the opportunity to remind the Government that power is not perpetual, and governments are subject to constant change. “While these laws may stifle our voices today, in the future, when those in the Government find themselves in the opposition, these same laws could also turn against them and be employed to their detriment,” he said. 

The organisations said they were even prepared to take to the streets to ensure the law is withdrawn and to protect the freedom of speech in Sri Lanka.