Fake News and Social Media: Freedom of Expression in Southeast Asia

Dr. James Gomez will be presenting “Fake News and Social Media: Freedom of Expression in Southeast Asia” at Macquarie University, 2 pm, Thursday, 18 October. To RSVP, http://bit.ly/2IM5N8p.

Abstract

Since 2017, individual governments in Southeast Asia have established task forces, convened select committee hearings and have proposed or passed legislation to combat “fake news”. In May 2018 ASEAN ministers responsible for information agreed in a joint statement to collaborate and exchange best practices to combat fake news and mitigate its effects. This development occurred on the back of increased internet penetration across Southeast Asia and the sharing of content over social media through mobile devices. The control over online expression is something Southeast Asian governments have been pursuing over the last two decades even as the technology and platforms evolve. The efforts to combat fake news is the latest battle against freedom of expression in the region. This seminar considers the following questions: What are the key issues around the emerging legislation in Southeast Asia in relation to fake news? How does the issue of fake news intersect with elections? What is the impact of fake news on democracy, rule of law and freedom of expression in the region?