If everything works according to plans, the way Bhutanese use online platforms could soon change. The government is now preparing country-specific rules that will clearly define what is acceptable and what is not on major social media platforms. The Industry, Commerce and Employment Minister announced this during today’s Meet the Press session.
A post. A video. A few clicks. Social media has transformed how we communicate, but it has also become a platform where misinformation, online abuse and harmful content can spread within minutes.
The move to formulate new legislation comes amid growing concerns over the misuse of social media, including incidents of cyberbullying and the circulation of harmful online content, which have renewed calls for stronger safeguards while using digital platforms.
Industry, Commerce, and Employment Minister Namgyal Dorji said the introduction of country-specific social media regulations will promote responsible online behaviour and ensure accountability.
“Major social media platforms such as Meta, TikTok and Telegram have asked us to provide clear rules outlining what the dos and don’ts are in the country. They said that once such guidelines are in place, they will be able to support us in taking down inappropriate content promptly.”
He added that stricter penalties will be imposed for violations once the regulations are finalised and come into effect.
According to the latest annual report from the Bhutan Infocomm & Media Authority (BICMA), Bhutan currently has 868,781mobile subscribers combining both the service providers, Bhutan Telecom and Tashi InfoComm.
The new rules, once formulated, are expected to shape how social media is used in Bhutan while strengthening cooperation with major platforms to address harmful content more effectively.
Sonam Yuden & Tashi Dekar
Edited by Phub Gyem
