The Tech Global Institute (TGI) has called for significant reforms to Bangladesh's digital governance framework, highlighting outdated laws that fail to address the challenges of the modern digital age. The findings, presented in a white paper titled 'A New Digital Frontier: A Blueprint for Reforms Towards Rights-Respecting Information and Technology Laws in Bangladesh', were unveiled during a webinar on December 4, 2024.

Bangladesh's digital ecosystem is currently governed by over 100 primary and subsidiary laws, many of which are remnants of colonial-era or early post-independence frameworks. These include the Penal Code of 1860 and the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1898. The TGI report criticises these laws for their inability to adapt to contemporary digital realities, instead facilitating unchecked surveillance and censorship while lacking robust mechanisms for accountability or transparency. Even more recent legislation, such as the Cyber Security Act 2023, has been flagged for provisions that are overly broad and vulnerable to misuse.

The webinar brought together experts, including retired Supreme Court Justice Muhammad Imam Ali, ICT Division Secretary Shish Haider Chowdhury, and legal professionals like Barrister Sara Hossain. Justice Imam Ali pointed out the fragmented and inconsistent nature of Bangladesh's legal system, which often results in contradictory rulings for similar offences. This inconsistency, he argued, undermines the credibility of the judiciary and highlights the urgent need for harmonised legal frameworks.

Shish Haider Chowdhury acknowledged the government's efforts to address cybersecurity challenges and disinformation. He noted that a data protection framework is in development and will be introduced alongside a revised version of the Cyber Security Act. However, he also emphasised that achieving meaningful reform requires collaboration between the government, civil society, and industry stakeholders.

Barrister Sara Hossain focused on the need for improved digital literacy and the responsibility of social media platforms in ensuring safer online environments. She argued that educational investments are essential to equip citizens with the skills to navigate digital spaces responsibly while understanding their rights and the limitations of online platforms.

TGI's white paper outlined a comprehensive roadmap for reform, advocating for the enactment of robust personal data protection laws to safeguard privacy and ensure compliance with global standards. It recommended modernising mechanisms for online content regulation to protect freedom of expression while addressing harmful content. Governance in cybersecurity was identified as a critical area for improvement, with the report calling for better oversight and clearer regulations. Furthermore, updates to competition and consumer protection laws were suggested to foster a more equitable digital marketplace, and the introduction of a centralised case-tracking system was proposed to improve efficiency within the legal system.

The report also examined the negative impact of unmodernised laws on individual freedoms and economic development. Weak consumer protections and anti-competitive practices have created barriers for both local and international businesses, stifling the growth of Bangladesh's digital economy. TGI stressed that aligning governance structures with international human rights standards would not only enhance individual protections but also strengthen the nation's position in the global digital economy.