Nepal has recently blocked access to numerous major social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and WhatsApp, due to their non-compliance with the country’s registration requirements. This action reflects a broader global trend where governments are increasing oversight of large tech companies. In 2023, the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology issued directives mandating that all social media platforms register with the government before they can operate in the country. The Supreme Court has supported this initiative, directing the government to ensure that both foreign and domestic platforms are officially registered, allowing for content monitoring.
The government argues that these registration rules aim to combat issues such as fake accounts, hate speech, and cybercrime in a nation where a significant portion of the population is online. Platforms were given a week, starting from August 28, to apply for registration; however, the deadline passed without any major global players, including Meta, Alphabet, and LinkedIn, submitting applications. Consequently, 26 platforms that failed to comply with the directives have been blocked. In contrast, some platforms, like TikTok and Viber, have registered, while others, such as Telegram, are still awaiting approval.
The decision to block these platforms has ignited outrage among users, who view it as a regressive step in the digital age. Many are concerned that the ban will disconnect millions from essential services they rely on daily. This situation is not isolated to Nepal; governments worldwide, including those in the US, EU, Brazil, and Australia, are also tightening control over social media, citing concerns about misinformation, data misuse, and security risks. For instance, Russia’s media watchdog recently restricted voice calls on WhatsApp and Telegram, citing their use in scams and terrorist activities.
The trend of increasing governmental control over social media is likely to persist, as many countries seek to balance the advantages of social media with the need to protect their citizens from potential harms. The Nepalese government has indicated that any platform that successfully completes the registration process will be allowed to reopen. However, for the time being, the ban remains in effect, impacting millions of users across the country.
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