The world’s attention is increasingly centered on social media. Since its origins in 1997, and particularly following the launch of Facebook on February 4, 2004, social media has evolved rapidly. In recent years, social media has expanded its influence worldwide, while traditional mass media like television, radio, and newspapers have seen their roles diminish. Many people now rely on social media as their primary news source, prompting even major media outlets to promote their content on these platforms. This shift does not imply that social media usage is inherently problematic.
Social media has become an integral part of modern life and a significant business force that no country can disregard. Companies such as Meta are among the world’s most profitable entities, capitalizing on this digital landscape. However, social media lacks the stringent regulations and institutional structures that govern traditional media. Mass media, including newspapers, is subject to regulatory frameworks and ethical codes. In Sri Lanka, for example, newspapers are regulated by both the Press Board and the Press Complaints Commission, and the nation adopted a newspaper code of ethics in 1981, updated in 2003 to include digital media. This regulatory system ensures accountability and standards in print media, setting an example among the mass media.
In addition to newspapers, regulatory mechanisms also govern television and radio. Each media institution is structured with internal guidelines and senior management that enforce compliance with ethical standards and verify the accuracy of content. Sri Lankan law provides recourse for individuals affected by media inaccuracies, including options for compensation, license revocation, or public apologies.
Social media, however, operates outside of such formalized accountability. Mr. Vijitha Herath recently stated that unrestricted freedom in social media resembles releasing “wild animals.” His observation highlights the need for responsibility. In recent times, social media has seen misuse through personal attacks, misinformation, and harmful content. This unchecked freedom has created a challenging situation, as Sri Lanka currently lacks a comprehensive system to regulate social media. While the Computer Emergency Response Team acts as a regulatory body, its capacity to enforce effective oversight is limited. Fake accounts proliferate, malicious posts spread unchecked, and users delete content without accountability. The legal mechanisms for addressing these issues are inadequately enforced, allowing social media to operate with minimal restraint.
If social media continues to misuse its freedom, it raises concerns about its impact on society, businesses, and even governance. The lack of regulation allows social media to function in ways that may harm individuals and institutions. We agree with Mr. Herath’s perspective and believe there is a pressing need to address this issue. Globally, regulatory models like self-regulation, statutory regulation, co-regulation, and internal regulation exist to balance freedom with responsibility. While the Sri Lankan Constitution provides media freedom, this right is balanced by specific legal limitations to prevent abuse. Freedom of the media is essential, but it must not become unchecked or destructive.
If social media fails to responsibly manage its freedoms, the government has a duty to act. Ensuring accountability in social media is not a suppression of freedom but a necessary responsibility to maintain societal harmony and protect public interest.
