The national harmful digital communication policy 2023 of Vanuatu

The National Harmful Digital Communication Policy 2023 of Vanuatu is a strategic framework designed to address the growing concerns of online abuse, cyberbullying, and harmful behaviours in the country’s digital space. It complements the National Cyber Security Strategy 2030 and aims to safeguard the integrity, safety, and respect of online interactions.

The policy establishes a legal and institutional foundation to prevent and manage online harms through both criminal and civil mechanisms. It defines harmful digital communication as any form of electronic communication that causes serious emotional distress, such as harassment, cyberstalking, publishing intimate visual recordings without consent, and online hate speech. It emphasises that communication must respect the dignity, privacy, and rights of individuals, and should avoid threats, false allegations, or discriminatory content.

Key objectives include:

• Protecting fundamental rights and freedoms in the digital realm.
• Creating a dedicated National Digital Safety Authority (NDSA), tasked with enforcement, education, and international cooperation.
• Establishing a Harmful Digital Communications Act (HDCA) to define offenses and legal remedies, including takedown orders, fines, and imprisonment.
• Providing victims with accessible mechanisms for redress, including complaint procedures and rehabilitation support.
• Harmonising local laws with regional and international best practices.
• Promoting digital hygiene and responsible online behaviour across society.

The strategy introduces a multistakeholder implementation framework, including government agencies, law enforcement, educational institutions, and international partners. It also proposes capacity-building programs and public awareness campaigns to enhance digital literacy and safety.

The policy was developed with support from both national and international stakeholders and was approved by the Council of Ministers under Decision No. 171 of 2021. It reflects the Government of Vanuatu’s recognition of the evolving digital risks and its commitment to building a safer online environment for its citizens.