Papua New Guinea’s government has blocked Facebook to combat online harm.
Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr stated the move aimed to curb “fake news, hate speech, pornography, child exploitation, and incitement to violence.”
The test, conducted under the Anti-Terrorism Act 2024, involved collaboration with law enforcement and internet service providers. Tsiamalili emphasized, “We are not attempting to suppress free speech or restrict our citizens from expressing their viewpoints.”
However, agencies like the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) were reportedly unaware of the test. NICTA CEO Kila Gulo-Vui stressed the need for transparency, stating, “Public confidence in our digital governance relies on transparency and consistency in how we approach online regulation.”
Critics argue the action threatens democratic freedoms. East Sepik Governor Allan Bird warned, “There is no limit to the powers the Minister of Police can exercise under this new law. It is draconian law designed to take away our freedoms.”
Despite the shutdown, many citizens bypassed restrictions using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). One user commented, “Hello from Poland,” highlighting the resilience of online communities.
The government’s action has ignited a debate on balancing national security with digital freedoms in Papua New Guinea.
