Nepal Bans Major Social Media Platforms Over Non-Compliance

In a significant move, the Nepali government has decided to block dozens of social media platforms, including widely used ones like Facebook, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter), citing their failure to register with the government as mandated by a recent court order and a new directive. The decision has been met with mixed reactions, with officials defending the action as a necessary step to regulate the digital space. At the same time, critics voice concerns over freedom of expression and its impact on the digital economy.

Photo Credit: Reuters

Why the Ban? The Government's Stance

The decision stems from a new regulation, the Social Media Directives 2080, which requires all social media platforms operating in Nepal to register with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. This directive was implemented following a Supreme Court order that instructed the government to establish a framework for regulating online platforms. The court's order was a response to several petitions that highlighted concerns about content broadcast without proper legal approval.

According to government officials, the main reason for the ban is the non-compliance of these major companies. They claim that repeated notices and a final seven-day deadline were given, but the platforms failed to comply. The government's spokesperson, Gajendra Kumar Thakur, stated that the action was taken to enforce the Supreme Court’s order and ensure that platforms are accountable for the content they host. Officials also cited concerns about the spread of disinformation, hate speech, and cybercrimes facilitated by fake accounts. The government argues that this move is not about censoring speech but about creating a responsible digital environment. They want platforms to have a local point of contact and an official presence to address user complaints and ensure legal compliance.

What Is the Impact? A Look at the Repercussions

The ban's implications are far-reaching and affect millions of people. For many Nepalis, social media is not just a place for sharing photos or personal updates; it is a vital tool for communication, business, and education. The ban directly impacts content creators and influencers who rely on platforms like YouTube and Facebook for their income. Just recently, Facebook launched a monetization program in Nepal, allowing creators to earn revenue, a development that is now effectively halted.

Economically, the ban is expected to have a significant negative effect. A previous ban on TikTok reportedly led to a loss of millions in revenue for internet service providers. This broader ban on over two dozen platforms could lead to even greater financial losses, affecting small businesses, digital marketers, and individuals who use these platforms for their livelihoods.

Beyond the economic impact, the ban raises serious questions about freedom of expression and the right to information. Critics argue that the move is an attempt to silence dissent and tighten government control over online speech. Journalists and human rights organizations, such as the Federation of Nepalese Journalists (FNJ), have condemned the decision, calling for its immediate withdrawal. They argue that the ban restricts fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution. The government’s move is seen by many as a step towards a more controlled digital landscape, similar to measures seen in other countries. The FNJ stated that banning social media without providing alternatives not only restricts press freedom but also the public's right to information.

What's Next? Navigating the Digital Future

For now, the government has directed the Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) to block all unregistered social media platforms. Only a few platforms, like Viber, WeTalk, and TikTok, have managed to register and remain accessible. The government has stated that any platform that completes the registration process can be reactivated on the same day.

Users are already turning to alternative ways to access the blocked platforms, such as using VPNs (Virtual Private Networks), which could lead to increased international bandwidth costs for internet service providers. This also highlights the challenge the government faces in fully enforcing the ban.

The ongoing debate over the ban is a test of Nepal's commitment to democratic values in the digital age. While the government insists on accountability and regulation, rights groups continue to advocate for a balance that protects citizens' fundamental rights. The decision could set a precedent for how Nepal and other nations choose to manage the intersection of technology, free speech, and national law. The future of the digital landscape in Nepal remains uncertain, with the outcome depending on whether a middle ground can be found between government control and individual liberty.