Title: Ivory Coast engages bloggers in the regulation of social networks
Introduction:
In Ivory Coast, bloggers are becoming aware of their impact on social networks and are choosing to engage in content regulation by signing the Social Network Charter. Supported by the High Authority for Audiovisual Communication, this initiative aims to establish a code of ethics for bloggers and influencers. With nearly 35 pioneers having already signed, this charter represents an important step towards empowering web stakeholders and preserving quality information.
The content of the Charter:
The Social Media Charter is made up of seven main principles that guide the actions of bloggers and influencers. The first principle is based on respecting the accuracy of information, thus encouraging verification of facts before sharing them. Transparency in commercial partnerships, to avoid any conflict of interest, is another crucial aspect of the charter. In addition, respect for personal data is emphasized, in order to guarantee the protection of users’ privacy.
The legal responsibility of bloggers:
It is important to note that violation of certain principles of the charter may result in legal sanctions. The president of the High Authority for Audiovisual Communication, René Bourgoin, emphasizes that certain offenses could be considered criminally reprehensible acts and prosecuted in court. This shows that bloggers now have legal responsibility for their posts and actions on social media.
The advantages of signing the Charter:
For bloggers, signing this Charter constitutes a guarantee of credibility and professionalism. They also demand support from the authorities in order to better understand the new law governing digital communication. Indeed, bloggers are now subject to the same constraints as audiovisual producers, which requires adaptation of their practices and better knowledge of the rules in force.
The need to protect bloggers:
Bloggers and influencers in Côte d’Ivoire do not yet have official status, which raises concerns about their protection and recognition of their work. Some believe that it is essential to establish an official classification of web players and to put in place appropriate protection measures. This classification would make it possible to better define the rights and duties of bloggers while giving them official recognition of their activity.
Conclusion:
The signing of the Social Network Charter by bloggers in Côte d’Ivoire marks an important step forward in the regulation of online content. By empowering web stakeholders and encouraging them to respect ethical principles, this initiative contributes to improving information on social networks. However, it is also necessary to protect and recognize bloggers by granting them official status and support measures appropriate to their activity.