International Forum in Yaoundé: The regulation of social networks, a major issue for Africa
The National Communication Council of the Republic of Cameroon (CNC), in collaboration with the Network of African Communication Regulatory Bodies (RIARC), is organizing an International Forum on the regulation of social networks. This event, which will take place from November 8 to 9, 2023 in Yaoundé, will bring together African media regulators as well as representatives of digital platforms.
The main objective of this forum is to address the issue of regulating social networks and to establish the modalities of collaboration between African media regulators and digital platforms. Indeed, transnational digital platforms today have a considerable influence on the functioning of States and on the socio-cultural life of billions of individuals in Africa and around the world.
The rapid expansion of social networks has created new regulatory challenges. Content distributed online can have a significant impact on society, sometimes in a negative way. Thus, it is essential to find concerted approaches to regulate these digital platforms and prevent disinformation and hate speech.
During the forum, participants will work in three thematic workshops. The first workshop will focus on managing content policies for international digital platforms. The second workshop will focus on measures to prevent and combat disinformation and hate speech on social media. Finally, the third workshop will look at the methods of collaboration between digital platforms and media regulators for a concerted approach to the regulation of social networks.
This international forum offers a unique opportunity for reflection and exchange between the different actors concerned by the regulation of social networks in Africa. It will allow us to share experiences and find solutions adapted to current challenges.
It is important to emphasize that the regulation of social networks should not be confused with online press freedom. It’s about finding a balance between freedom of expression and preventing online abuse.
At the end of the forum, a general report will be presented and a statement will be issued, demonstrating the commitment of African media and digital platform regulators to effective and balanced regulation of social media.
This International Forum on the regulation of social networks marks an important step in the reflection on the management of digital platforms in Africa. It is necessary to work collaboratively to ensure a healthy and secure online environment, while preserving freedom of expression and promoting a responsible internet.