Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior is considering stricter regulations for social media platforms amid concerns over child exploitation and obscene content online, with consultations with relevant stakeholders planned before any final decision.
According to sources, a proposal to set a minimum age for social media use is among the measures under consideration.
Authorities are also examining proposals to curb obscene content circulated under the guise of family vlogging.
The government is further considering the option of restricting or banning certain social media platforms, following similar measures adopted by some other countries, sources said.
A meeting at the Ministry of Interior will be held to discuss the proposals and review cases involving child exploitation and obscene content.
Officials from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), and federal and provincial police departments are expected to attend.
The meeting will also examine social media policies adopted by Australia and other countries as part of the consultation process.
The proposals come amid growing concern over online risks to children. A recent UNICEF report found that nearly one in 16 internet-using children aged 12 to 17 in Pakistan experienced at least one form of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse in a single year.
No final decision on the proposed restrictions has been announced, with the Interior Ministry expected to finalise measures after consultations with the relevant stakeholders.
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