US expresses concerns over Sri Lanka's controversial internet regulation law
The United States has expressed concerns over Sri Lanka's recently passed Online Safety bill, citing potential impacts on democratic values and economic growth.
The Controversial Online Safety Bill
The Sri Lankan government recently passed the Online Safety bill, which grants the government the authority to establish a commission with extensive powers, including the ability to order the removal of online posts considered 'prohibited statements'. This legislation has faced significant opposition from various groups, including the media, opposition lawmakers, and civil rights organizations.
Critics argue that the bill is an attempt by the governing coalition to suppress freedom of speech in an election year. Sri Lanka is currently grappling with an economic crisis that required an international bailout, and the government is accused of using the bill to stifle dissent and suppress political opponents.
Human Rights Watch has raised concerns that the bill contains broad and vague 'speech-related offenses' that could result in lengthy prison sentences. The Asia Internet Coalition, which includes tech giants like Apple, Amazon, Google, and Yahoo, has also warned that the bill may hinder the growth of Sri Lanka's digital economy and discourage foreign direct investment.
US Concerns and Call for Transparency
The United States has voiced its concerns about the potential impact of the Online Safety bill on democratic values and economic growth in Sri Lanka. Julie Chung, the U.S. ambassador in Sri Lanka, urged the country to prioritize transparency and ensure that the legislation does not suppress the voices of its people.
Chung emphasized that besides undermining democratic values, overly restrictive legislation can hinder investment and impede the development of a digital economy, which Sri Lanka desperately needs for its economic growth.
The U.S. concerns highlight the international scrutiny and potential consequences Sri Lanka may face due to the controversial online regulation law.
Sri Lanka's Economic Crisis and Political Context
Sri Lanka is currently grappling with its worst economic crisis, with over $83 billion debt and severe shortages of food, fuel, and other necessities. The economic turmoil has fueled public protests and led to the ouster of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. The IMF provided a bailout package of $2.9 billion to help the struggling country.
Despite some improvements in the shortages, public dissatisfaction has been growing due to new taxes and increased energy bills imposed by the government. Furthermore, critics argue that President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who took office after Rajapaksa fled, has stifled dissent by cracking down on anti-government protests and arresting activists.
The upcoming presidential election later this year adds a political dimension to the situation, with concerns that the Online Safety bill may be used to suppress dissent and manipulate the political landscape.
