Praneeta Prakash 
[Photo: FILE]
A review of Fiji’s Online Safety Act 2018 has identified the need for stronger enforcement powers to address harmful online content, alongside safeguards for freedom of expression and public-interest material.
The Fiji Law Reform Commission has submitted its final report, three draft Online Safety Bills and accompanying draft Cabinet papers to Attorney-General Sevuloni Valenitabua.
Review Commissioner David Solvalu says the Online Safety Commissioner needs stronger civil enforcement powers, including legal mechanisms to seek the removal of harmful online material.
He says the current framework relies heavily on formal complaints and criminal prosecution adding that reluctance to lodge complaints or meet evidence requirements can limit effective enforcement.
However, Solvalu stresses that any additional powers must have clear limits to protect constitutional rights, including freedom of expression, freedom of the press, journalistic activities and academic freedom.
The review also identified the need for stronger safeguards for online material that serves the public interest.
It assessed the effectiveness of Fiji’s existing framework in responding to online harms and emerging digital challenges, drawing on approaches used in Australia, New Zealand
and the United Kingdom.
The Attorney-General’s Office will now examine the report and draft Bills in consultation with relevant Cabinet colleagues and the legislative drafting team. Further stakeholder engagement will take place where necessary.
Valenitabua says online safety remains a national concern and Fiji must be equipped to protect people in an increasingly digital world.
