The Online Safety Advocacy Group (OSAG) and the Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) have raised concerns about Malaysia’s proposed Online Safety Bill (OSB) and amendments to the Penal Code to tackle online harms. While recognizing the need for strict cyberbullying laws to address issues like cyberbullying and child sexual abuse material, they stress the importance of safeguarding freedom of expression and avoiding rushed or overly broad legislation. OSAG explains the need for transparency, broad discussions, and clear differences between adults and children in handling cyberbullying cases and sees to it that the safety measures for exams without fundamental rights.
This blog will explain cyberbullying, the importance of cyberbullying, and global perspectives on the same.
Table of Contents
What is CyberBullying & Tactics of Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying refers to a form of bullying that occurs through digital platforms, including social media, messaging apps, gaming platforms, and other online spaces where individuals can interact. It involves using technology to harass, embarrass, or harm others by sharing harmful, insensitive, or private information without consent. There are various forms of cyberbullying such as sending mean messages, spreading rumors, or posting inappropriate content about someone online. Cyberbullying laws are designed to hold offenders responsible and provide victims with legal protections against emotional and psychological harm.
Importance of CyberBullying Law
Cyberbullying laws are important as they ensure a safe online environment, especially for children and young. These laws help protect victims by addressing harmful behaviors such as harassment, spreading rumors, and imitation. These laws make sure that the culprits are held accountable. They discourage further bullying and prevent long-term damage. In 2024, stronger safeguards are being enforced globally, with measures like the UK’s Online Safety Bill requiring platforms to take more responsibility for preventing cyberbullying. The Cyberbullying laws escalate online harassment into serious threats or emotional distress, offering both immediate and long-term protection for victims.
CyberBullying Laws by Different Countries
Cyberbullying laws are different in every state and country. Specific measures are taken to fight against online harassment in different countries. Let’s see how the laws are used by the different countries.
1. United States
Many states have specific laws addressing cyberbullying, often linked to broader bullying. While federal law doesn’t completely cover cyberbullying, related laws like the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and various state laws aim to reduce cyberbullying.
2. European Union
Countries such as Sweden, Italy, and France have strict anti-cyberbullying measures. Italy has seen significant progress in awareness and legislative updates to address online harassment among youth.
3. Asia
Nations like South Korea and Japan have created strict regulations that target cyberbullying and defamation. These laws often include sharp penalties for online harassment, including imprisonment.
4. Latin America
Brazil and Argentina have made several steps to recognize and focus on cyberbullying by integrating it into broader child protection and cybercrime frameworks
5. Africa
South Africa stands out with high awareness and legislative measures targeting cyberbullying. The country’s Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill includes provisions for online harassment.
6. Federal Law
There are no specific federal laws to address cyberbullying, but the laws can be applied to online harassment, stalking, or hate crimes in certain cases.
Global Perspectives of Cyberbullying Laws
Several cyberbullying laws are used to tackle online harassment. Many countries have implemented specific measures, while others are creating frameworks to address this crime’s growth.
1. Widespreadness of Cyberbullying
One in three parents globally reports knowing a child who has been cyberbullied. South Africa has the highest percentage, with 54% of parents reporting such cases.
2. Role of Social Media
Platforms like social networking sites are the primary medium for cyberbullying. Around 65% of cyberbullying cases are produced from this platform. Latin America reports the highest rate. 76% of it is originated from social media.
3. Cyberbullying Laws
Countries like the United States, the UK, and Australia have introduced specific laws targeting cyberbullying. They address issues such as online harassment and defamation.
4. Regional Challenges
In the backward regions of Saudi Arabia, awareness is less, and they have weaker cyberbullying laws. Thus, they need to improve awareness and policy.
5. Parental Insights
Globally, 17% of parents report their child has been a victim of cyberbullying. This has been present in South Africa and Turkey since 2011 and keeps increasing.
6. Global Cooperation
Emphasis on international collaboration and public awareness campaigns to address online harassment effectively.
7. Impact of Legal Frameworks
Strengthening cyberbullying laws is essential to minimize the harmful impact of digital harassment on society.
Final Thoughts
Cyberbullying hurts everyone’s kindness, not hate
We hope this blog has given you valuable insights into cyberbullying laws for different countries. It is important for countries that have still not implemented cyberbullying laws to implement them. Online harassment, cyberstalking, excluding someone from groups unnecessarily, trolling, and threatening someone about leaking their private information is devastating for someone. The victim of any of the mentioned cyberbullying crimes can report the same. Nowadays, several countries have started taking serious action against the offender. They have created strict cyberbullying laws to prevent this malicious behavior.
