GNI, Article 19 raise concerns over ‘Cyber and Personal Data Protection’ ordinance

The Global Network Initiative (GNI) has raised concerns about Bangladesh's draft Cyber Protection Ordinance and draft Personal Data Protection Ordinance. Similarly, Article 19 has expressed its apprehension regarding the draft Cyber Protection Ordinance and called for meaningful and effective discussions with relevant stakeholders before it is enacted into law.

A statement published on GNI’s website on Monday (February 3) highlighted these concerns. GNI is dedicated to protecting freedom of expression and privacy, bringing together over a hundred global technology companies, investors, civil society organizations, and academic researchers.

The statement noted that GNI has expressed concerns about the lack of transparency and stakeholder participation in Bangladesh's recent regulatory initiatives, particularly in the draft Personal Data Protection Ordinance and the draft Cyber Protection Ordinance.

Moreover, the lack of transparency and participation in these two draft ordinances echoes the restrictive measures of previous governments and raises concerns about the potential for further excessive use of executive power.

The statement also highlighted that the proposed ordinances fail to adequately address the unchecked authority of telecommunications regulators and national security agencies over online service providers. Additionally, they pose a significant threat to freedom of expression and personal privacy in Bangladesh.

Meanwhile, Article 19 has also voiced concerns about the draft ordinance, stressing the need for meaningful discussions with relevant stakeholders before enacting the Cyber Protection Ordinance into law.

There are fears that the ordinance’s ambiguity could lead to misuse, posing a serious threat to independent journalism and freedom of expression.