The Asia Internet Coalition (AIC), an industry association representing prominent Internet and technology companies, has voiced its apprehensions regarding the Government of Sri Lanka’s (GoSL) recent move to gazette the Online Safety Bill (OSB). 

Jeff Paine, the Managing Director of AIC, expressed concern over the lack of stakeholder consultation in the formulation of this legislation, which raises critical questions about the impact it may have on freedom of expression and innovation within the nation.

The OSB in its current form, is viewed as a potentially draconian system that could suppress dissent and curtail the rights of Sri Lankans to freely express their thoughts and ideas online. 

While AIC member companies prioritize online safety, they emphasise the importance of striking a balance between safety measures and preserving the digital economy's vitality through open discourse.

AIC strongly urges the GOSL to collaborate closely with industry stakeholders to establish regulations that are not only proportionate and reasonable but also aligned with international best practices. Such measures are vital to fostering the growth of Sri Lanka's burgeoning digital economy, which holds significant promise for the nation's future.

The Asia Internet Coalition, co-founded in 2010 by leading tech giants such as eBay, Amazon, Meta, Spotify, Booking.com, Linkedin, X (formerly Twitter), Google, Nokia, Skype, and Yahoo!, plays a crucial role in advocating for internet policy issues in the Asia Pacific region.