The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has started discussions with the Office of Censorship on new laws to implement the Social Media Policy endorsed by Cabinet in September 2026.
DICT Secretary Mr Steven Matainaho stated in a recent publication that the policy proposes three key measures:
- Registration: Social media entities operating in Papua New Guinea would be required to legally register as companies in PNG.
- Classification: A framework would be established to assess and classify the appropriateness of social media platforms for use in the country.
- Age restrictions: Platforms considered inappropriate for children could face age limits, with a general threshold of 16 years and below.
Secretary Matainaho explained the reasoning behind the measures, comparing harmful online spaces with how society treats unsafe physical environments for children
“If, as a society, we recognize that certain physical places and environments are inappropriate for children and therefore restrict their access, why should we treat potentially harmful online spaces differently?”
He warned that the risks are serious and increasing.
“The risks are real and growing, including online scams, child grooming, exploitation and the deliberate luring of vulnerable children, which can lead to serious abuse, including sexual assault and rape.”
He emphasized that children must be protected both offline and online.
“Our children deserve protection not only in the physical world, but also in the digital world.”
DICT has already consulted with Meta on these issues and is now working with the Office of Censorship to shape the legislative approach.
“As more our people begin to access the online space, the goal is about making the digital environment safer, more accountable and more appropriate for our children.”