Canada Stresses Digital Security and Human Rights Must Progress in Parallel
28-Feb-2026.
Digital security and human rights must advance in parallel, stated Patrick Pickering, Second Secretary at the Canadian High Commission, reaffirming Canada’s readiness to extend comprehensive cooperation to promote a safe digital space and democratic principles in Sri Lanka.
He made these remarks at the launch of the policy recommendation report titled “Mitigating the Harmful Impacts of Laws Affecting Online Publications,” prepared by Spectrum with financial support from the Canadian High Commission. The event was held on 25 February at the Taj Samudra Hotel in Colombo.
As social media and online platforms increasingly influence society, regulatory laws introduced to govern them have raised concerns regarding potential adverse impacts on fundamental rights, including freedom of expression.
Following extensive consultations with social media activists, website administrators, content moderators, and representatives of Indigenous communities, as well as a review of Sri Lanka’s current legal framework, Spectrum’s report presents recommendations aimed at regulating online activity without undermining human rights.
Spectrum Director Mandana Ismail, delivering the opening remarks, emphasized the growing global importance of digital governance, noting that as Sri Lanka moves toward a digital economy, ensuring safe digital platforms is essential.
She highlighted concerns over the lack of broad consultation during the introduction of the Online Safety Act and issues surrounding the Online Safety Commission, stating that the report incorporates key recommendations to address these shortcomings.
Pickering further underscored the need to regulate digital spaces in a manner that safeguards freedom of expression and protects vulnerable groups without restricting civic space. He reiterated that digital security and human rights must move forward together and pledged Canada’s continued support toward strengthening democratic values and digital safety in Sri Lanka.
