Critics Warn New Cyber Amendments Threaten Free Speech in Bangladesh

Dhaka – On September 24, a coalition of human‑rights groups issued a stark warning about the draft Cyber Protection (Amendment) Act 2026, arguing that its broad clauses could significantly undermine free expression and other civil liberties in Bangladesh.

The statement, signed by CIVICUS, the Robert and Athele Kennedy Human Rights Center, Front Line Defenders and South Asians for Human Rights, notes that the proposed changes risk curbing media freedom and discouraging investigative reporting on matters of public interest. They stress that any attempt to improve digital security must not impose excessive constraints on constitutionally guaranteed freedoms of speech and press.

The draft’s use of vague terms—such as “rumor”, “misinformation”, “digital defamation”, “insult”, “bullying” and “fake news”—is highlighted as a major flaw. Without clear definitions, the language could be applied arbitrarily, leading to misuse.

The amendment also introduces new offences with harsh penalties, including long prison sentences, sizable fines and the possibility of pre‑trial custody for online expression. Critics say these measures presumptively treat individuals as criminals before any proof of wrongdoing, granting authorities far‑reaching power.

Furthermore, the proposal would expand the ability to block digital content and could render certain offences non‑bailable, raising additional concerns about over‑reach. The groups questioned the legitimacy of the September 10 consultation, which they say excluded civil‑society organisations and human‑rights advocates while limiting participation to a handful of media professionals.

The signatories call for a genuine, inclusive and time‑bound dialogue that involves human‑rights defenders, civil‑society groups, journalists, technology and legal experts to ensure the final law respects Bangladesh’s constitutional guarantees and its international human‑rights obligations.