What question did this study set out to answer?

This article investigates how regulatory controls and self-censorship affect social media usage in Bangladesh.

May 16, 2026Open Access

Regulatory Control and Self-Censorship in Social Media: Stifling Freedom of Expression in Bangladesh

Puntos clave

This article investigates how regulatory controls and self-censorship affect social media usage in Bangladesh.
Analyzed the impact of the Digital Security Act on online behavior and expression.
Studied the atmosphere of fear among citizens, journalists, and activists under governmental regulation.
Explored the tension between national security and free speech through legal frameworks and user behavior.
The Digital Security Act stifles dissent and suppresses freedom of expression.
Social media users face legal consequences for criticizing the government.
The regulatory environment undermines democratic engagement and public discourse.

Resumen

This article examines the impact of regulatory control and self-censorship on social media in Bangladesh, focusing on the Digital Security Act (DSA). The regime employed the DSA to suppress dissent, monitor online activity, and stifle freedom of expression, creating an atmosphere of fear and self-censorship among citizens, journalists, and activists. Social media platforms became tools for political control, with users facing legal consequences for criticizing the government. This regulatory environment undermined democratic participation and restricted the diversity of public discourse, impeding the free exchange of ideas essential to democratic governance. By exploring the legal frameworks and user behavior, the article highlights the tension between protecting national security and safeguarding free speech, questioning how these regulations align with international human rights standards. The findings emphasize the broader implications for democracy and freedom of expression in Bangladesh.

Leer artículo completoexternamente

Me gusta

Guardar

Ver artículo completo