The government of Papua New Guinea is considering implementing strict age restrictions on social media access, a move that has ignited a heated national debate about digital rights and child protection in the Pacific nation.
Prime Minister James Marape has confirmed his administration is actively exploring measures to limit young people's access to social media platforms, citing growing concerns about the impact of online content on the country's youth.
The Protection Argument
Supporters of the proposed restrictions argue that social media exposes children to harmful content and contributes to anti-social behaviour. They point to the need for stronger safeguards in the digital age, particularly for vulnerable young users.
"We are looking at what age we should allow our people to go on to social media," Marape stated, indicating the government's serious consideration of implementing age-based access controls.
Free Speech Concerns
However, the proposal has drawn sharp criticism from civil liberties advocates and opposition figures who fear it could be used to silence dissenting voices and restrict freedom of expression.
Opposition leader Joseph Lelang has condemned the plan as a potential "curtailment of freedom of speech," warning that such measures could be exploited for political purposes rather than genuine child protection.
A Pattern of Digital Control
This isn't Papua New Guinea's first attempt to regulate online spaces. The country previously attempted to ban Facebook for a month in 2020, though the restriction was never fully implemented.
The current proposal comes amid ongoing challenges with internet infrastructure and access across the nation, where connectivity remains limited in many rural areas despite growing urban digital adoption.
Broader Implications
The debate reflects wider global tensions between protecting citizens online and preserving digital freedoms. As Papua New Guinea grapples with its digital future, the outcome of this discussion could set important precedents for internet governance in the Pacific region.
With arguments intensifying on both sides, the government faces the challenging task of balancing genuine child welfare concerns against fundamental rights to expression and information.
