A legislative review is underway to strengthen protections against online abuse, says Fiji’s Online Safety Commissioner Filipe Batiwale.
The review aims to address gaps in the Online Safety Act 2018, including the potential imposition of a “duty of care” on platforms and internet service providers to prevent online harm.
Currently being carried out in partnership with the Attorney-General’s Chambers, the review also seeks to broaden the scope of the Commission’s work — particularly its investigative and enforcement powers.
Batiwale’s comments follow public outcry on social media, calling on the Commission to take down Facebook groups and harmful content online. This follows the circulation of a photo of a critically ill child accompanied by homophobic and harmful remarks.
“Many people think we can remove content or shut down pages — but the truth is, under the law as it stands, we cannot. That power lies with the respective social media platforms,” Batiwale said. “This can be frustrating, but it’s important to understand that as a statutory body in a democracy, we are bound by the laws Parliament has given us.”
In the meantime, Batiwale urged Fijians to act with empathy and responsibility online.
“This is not who we are, Fiji. At a time when a family is seeking help for their child’s medical care, they should be met with compassion and support — not hate and abuse. We can do better. We must do better.”
Fijians are encouraged not to share harmful content — even with good intentions — as doing so may amplify the harm. Instead, such content should be reported directly to the Commission.
To Report Harmful Content:
Visit: www.osc.com.fj
Email: help@onlinesafetycommission.com
Call: 9980242 or 3300547
