Lahore, The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has issued a stern warning against a proposed resolution in the Senate that calls for a complete ban on social media platforms. The rights body argues that such a move would infringe upon the constitutional right to freedom of expression and signify a retreat from democratic principles. This statement comes in the wake of ongoing discussions within the Upper House to potentially restrict access to digital platforms, a proposal that HRCP deems both unrealistic and counterproductive to modern democratic and economic practices.

According to Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, the suggestion to ban social media is not only impractical, given that politicians, state institutions, and the general public continue to access blocked platforms via virtual private networks (VPNs), but also ignores the vital role these platforms play in today’s society. From fostering information exchange and supporting livelihoods to enabling political mobilization and holding power structures accountable, social media’s contribution to civic life is multifaceted and significant.

HRCP also criticized the rationale behind the resolution, highlighting the inconsistency of past government actions that have intermittently shut down social media for security reasons without any tangible benefits to public safety. The commission argues that addressing issues like youth unemployment, educational access, and widespread misogyny would be a more effective use of Senate resources than attempting to police online expression.

Furthermore, HRCP emphasizes the need for any social media regulation to be narrowly focused, transparently applied, and developed in consensus with civil society, aiming to safeguard against hate speech and violence without curtailing broader digital freedoms. The commission’s statement concludes with a call to action for civil society and digital rights activists to oppose the proposed curbs and demands the immediate restoration of access to blocked social media platforms.