Mauritius Eyes Stricter Social Media Laws for Healthier Digital Environment

The Mauritian government is exploring stricter regulations for social media platforms to create a “healthy digital environment,” according to Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation, Avinash Ramtohul. This move is aimed at protecting citizens from the potential harm of online misuse.

Government Seeks Social Media Regulation

Speaking at the launch of the Learn-AI program, Minister Ramtohul stated that consultations are underway with the State Law Office to craft new legislation.

He acknowledged that while the constitution protects both freedom of expression and the right to privacy, a balance is needed, asking, “what happens if, by expressing oneself, one causes harm?”

The minister emphasized the need to find solutions for “framing and moderating” social media use.

He stressed that the primary goal is to foster a “healthy and favourable digital environment for young people.”

The minister’s comments were made on Monday, September 8, at the Octave Wiehe auditorium in Réduit, following the launch of Learn-AI.

About the Learn-AI Program

The Learn-AI program is a dual-part initiative for Grade 12 students from both public and private schools.

One part of the program is a competition where students are challenged to develop AI-based solutions for civic problems in strategic areas for the country’s future.

The program is a collaborative effort between Mauritius Telecom, Dayforce Mauritius, and Doracrea Training, in partnership with the Office of the President of the Republic, the Ministry of Education and Human Resources, the Ministry of ICT, and several strategic AI partners.

Source: Defi Media