The United States voiced strong concerns on Wednesday over Sri Lanka’s newly passed Online Safety Bill, criticizing its lack of stakeholder consultation and potential for undermining freedom of expression, innovation, and privacy.
In a statement, US Ambassador in Colombo Julie Chung highlighted the detrimental impact the legislation could have on both democratic values and Sri Lanka’s economic growth.
“The United States remains concerned about the potential impact of Sri Lanka’s Online Safety Bill, which passed yesterday without incorporating important input from key stakeholders,” Ambassador Chung stated.
She expressed particular concern for civil society and tech companies, who have been vocal critics of the bill, arguing that it poses a significant threat to fundamental rights and freedoms.
