ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s federal government is considering tighter regulations for social media, including a possible minimum age requirement for users, as authorities review concerns over child exploitation and inappropriate content online.
The Ministry of Interior plans to consult relevant stakeholders before making any final decisions. Officials from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), and federal and provincial police departments are expected to participate in the consultations.
According to sources, one proposal under consideration is to establish a minimum age for social media use. Authorities are also examining measures to address inappropriate or exploitative content shared under the label of family vlogging.
Platform Restrictions Also Under Review
The government is also considering whether certain social media platforms should face additional restrictions or possible bans, following regulatory approaches adopted by some other countries.
However, no specific platform ban or nationwide minimum age has been announced. The proposals remain subject to consultation and further consideration.
The Interior Ministry meeting is expected to review cases involving child exploitation and inappropriate content on social media. Reports submitted by police departments are also expected to inform the discussions on possible changes to the regulatory framework.
Australia’s Model to Be Examined
Officials will also examine social media policies adopted by Australia and other countries as part of the consultation process.
Australia’s current framework prevents children under 16 from holding accounts on age-restricted social media platforms, placing responsibility on platforms to take reasonable steps to enforce the minimum age.
Pakistan has already seen calls for stronger protections for minors. On September 1, the Punjab Assembly passed a resolution urging the federal government to restrict social media accounts for children under 16, subject to parental or guardian consent and reliable age verification.
No Final Decision Yet
The proposed measures are being discussed against a wider debate over children’s safety online, harmful content and the regulation of social media platforms.
Pakistan already has laws and institutions dealing with online offences. The NCCIA is responsible for investigating cybercrime, while the PTA has powers concerning unlawful online content.
For now, the proposed age limit, possible platform restrictions and additional rules for online content remain under consideration. Any new nationwide requirements would require further government action following the stakeholder consultations.