Sri Lanka· 2024In forceRestricts
Online Safety Act 2024 (Sri Lanka)
Online ආරක්ෂාව පිළිබඳ පනත, 2024
Protest rightsPeaceful assemblyProscription
Summary
Sri Lanka's Online Safety Act 2024 (Act No. 9 of 2024) establishes an Online Safety Commission with broad powers to order removal of 'prohibited statements' including content that causes 'national disunity' or 'incites communal disharmony'. Critics including the UN and Freedom House have identified it as a tool for suppressing Tamil political speech online.
Relevance to the diaspora
Tamil diaspora social media content, particularly posts from outside Sri Lanka, can be designated 'prohibited statements' under the Act; Sri Lankan authorities can request platforms to block diaspora accounts; Tamil journalists and activists in the diaspora may face consequences upon visiting Sri Lanka.
Key provisions
- s.3 — establishment of Online Safety Commission
- s.25 — prohibited statements including 'false statements of fact' and content causing 'national disunity'
- s.31 — orders against online service providers
- s.49 — criminal liability for individuals
Primary source
https://www.lawnet.gov.lk/online-safety/Related entries
Citation-only entry. Not legal advice. For action in any jurisdiction, consult a regulated practitioner. Errors or omissions → contact us.