The Government is working on two ICT legislative amendments one to ban pornography and another to control Facebook  in preparation for the November Parliament sitting.

When the National ICT Development Committee (NIDC) met again this week for the first time in five years, Prime Minister Jotham Napat announced that Government will push for changes to the ICT laws.

Director of the Department of Communication and Digital Transformation, John Jack, confirmed that one amendment will enforce a ban on pornography and the other will address Facebook regulation.

“The Government has made a decision to ban pornography in Vanuatu through a legislative amendment,” Jack said.

Concerns have also been raised over Facebook’s negative impacts, putting pressure on the Government to act.

“I am fully aware that the Government is passing some of the ICT legislation this coming Parliament. But one of the challenges we see today is the different abuses on social media, and it is alarming. I hope that the revival of this committee, with the help of stakeholders, will support the work ahead,” PM Napat said.

The Prime Minister has asked the NIDC to provide advice on both the benefits and risks of Facebook so Government can make an informed decision.

Pacific Network owner, Peter Namaka, stressed that despite some negative sides, Facebook has many benefits.

“Facebook is a tool that helps us promote our business, connect to families, and read news. For example, during our trip to Erromango, there was no communication available. We relied on Starlink to access Facebook for weather updates, and it kept us safe,” Namaka said.

Other stakeholders added that instead of banning or blocking Facebook, regulations should be introduced to manage its use.

Jack also noted that restrictions may apply for young users: “For ages 16 and below, we will limit their use of social media and smart devices.”

The Prime Minister raised the issue of Facebook to gather stakeholder views before taking it to the Council of Ministers.

If the negative impacts of Facebook are judged to outweigh the positives, Government may be forced to take tough action. However, if the benefits prove greater, regulations and controls will be considered instead of a ban.