This country has blocked Facebook to ‘limit’ fake news and porn | World News

Papua New Guinea has blocked Facebook in what officials describe as a “test” to curb hate speech, misinformation, and pornography. The move, which took effect on Monday, has sparked outrage from opposition leaders and press freedom advocates, who argue it is a violation of fundamental rights.
Police Miner Peter Tsiamalili Jr defended the decision, insing that the government is not attempting to suppress free speech but rather to protect citizens from harmful content.
However, critics remained unconvinced, with many pointing out that the abrupt ban was implemented without consultation, even with key government agencies overseeing communication and technology, BBC reported.
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Facebook is the most widely used social media platform in Papua New Guinea, with about 1.3 million users, including many small businesses that depend on it for sales.
The platform has also been a crucial space for public discourse, especially as press freedom in the country has deteriorated in recent years.
Neville Choi, president of Papua New Guinea’s media council, said the ban “borders on political autocracy and an abuse of human rights.” Opposition MP Allan Bird echoed these concerns, warning that the restriction is “just step one” in a broader effort to limit freedoms.
He linked the move to newly passed counter-terrorism laws that grant the government sweeping powers to monitor and restrict online communications.Story continues below this ad
Despite the ban, many users have passed restrictions using virtual private networks (VPNs). Meanwhile, business leaders like John Pora, chairman of the Small and Medium Enterprises Corporation, worry about the economic impact.
“We have hundreds of thousands of people in the informal sector, and they’ll be feeling uncertain,” he said, urging authorities to restore access soon.
Papua New Guinea has previously taken action against Facebook, including a month-long ban in 2018 aimed at cracking down on fake profiles.
The government has also considered launching a state-controlled alternative. The latest restrictions come amid an ongoing parliamentary inquiry into “fake news” and social media platforms.
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