Social media has become an integral part of modern life in Ghana, with many citizens using platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube to connect with others, share ideas, and express themselves. However, the rise of social media has also led to a surge in online harassment, defamation, threats, and other forms of cybercrime. Perpetrators often hide behind fake and unidentified accounts, making it difficult for authorities to track them down.
The Need for Verified Accounts
To combat this issue, the Ghana National Communications Authority (NCA) should negotiate with social media platforms to implement verified accounts. This would enable the identification of account owners and hold them accountable for their online actions. Verified accounts would help reduce online harassment and promote a safer digital environment.
Existing Efforts to Regulate Digital Space
The Ghanaian government has already taken steps to regulate the digital space. The Ministry of Communications and Digitalization is working on 15 new pieces of legislation to guide broadcasting and digital communication in the country. These laws aim to promote ethical standards in media operations and protect citizens from harmful content.
Challenges and Concerns
While regulating social media is crucial, it’s essential to balance this with the need to protect freedom of expression and promote digital literacy. Some stakeholders have expressed concerns that new laws might be used to stifle free speech and suppress dissenting voices. Therefore, it’s crucial to engage with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations
Promoting Digital Literacy
Education and awareness creation are key to curbing disinformation and misinformation. Stakeholders have called for increased digital and media literacy to enable citizens to identify fake news and false information. This would empower individuals to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.
The NCA’s efforts to regulate social media and promote digital literacy are steps in the right direction. By working together with social media platforms and stakeholders, Ghana can create a safer and more responsible digital environment. Implementing verified accounts would be a significant step towards achieving this goal.