Regulation of social media platforms is positive move: CAN Federation

KATHMANDU: Federation of Computer Association Nepal (CAN Federation), the leading organisation in the field of information technology, has expressed its support for the government’s objective of regulating social media through a listing process. Although the initiative to bring social media platforms within a legal framework is positive, the federation has urged caution over the potential impact of deactivating those platforms.

The CAN Fedration said that the absence of formal contact offices of social media companies in Nepal, owing to a lack of registration, poses challenges in crime prevention, misinformation control and personal security. “We view the government’s decision to bring social networks into the registration process as a positive step,” said Sunaina Ghimire Pandey, President of CAN Federation. “This will aid user security, contribute to controlling cybercrime and increase revenue. However, shutting down important platforms such as Facebook, X and YouTube all at once can have a serious impact on education, business, communication and the daily lives of ordinary citizens.”

Pandey emphasised the need for phased implementation, warning that the government’s move also risks leaving Nepal behind in digital development, and called for sufficient discussions with stakeholders to find practical solutions.

According to the federation, around 70% of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Nepal rely on social media for market expansion and customer engagement. It added that many users earn income by posting content on these platforms, so a ban could lead to job losses and business closures.

The federation also noted that social media is the principal means of communication for Nepalis working abroad with their families, and restricting it would harm social relationships and mental health.