Internet control

Prison sentences for false reports in Pakistan

Critics of the new law fear further restrictions on freedom of expression.

(Bild: Rafa Jodar)

In Pakistan, parliament has passed a law to tighten control of social media. The dissemination of false information is to be punishable by up to three years in prison in future, as announced by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar.

A specially established authority will be able to immediately block content and users who spread false information about the government, judges or the country's powerful military.

Critics fear further restrictions on freedom of expression in the country. The new law would put more pressure on an already "stifled" society, digital rights activist Nighat Dad told the television station Geonews. Pakistan's largest trade union for journalists announced protests.

Criticism of restrictions on internet access for some time now
The nuclear power Pakistan has long been criticized for restricting Internet access. The controversial parliamentary elections in February 2024 were also overshadowed by internet blocks. Activists accuse the government of building a so-called firewall based on the Chinese model in order to control activities on the internet.

The law will come into force as soon as it has been approved by the upper house of parliament and signed by the president. This could be the case in just a few days.