CAN Federation Opposes Social Media Ban, Urges Smart Regulation for Nepal

7th September 2025, Kathmandu

The debate over social media regulation in Nepal has reached a critical point. The government’s recent proposal to ban unlisted social media platforms has drawn strong opposition from the Federation of Computer Associations Nepal (#CANFederation), which argues for balanced, practical policies over an outright ban.

CAN Federation Opposes Social Media Ban

Federation’s concerns highlight why a blanket shutdown could severely harm the nation’s digital economy, social fabric, and cybersecurity.

The Government’s Stance and CAN Federation’s Concerns

The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MoCIT) announced plans to deactivate platforms like Facebook, X, and YouTube if they fail to register with the government. While the CAN Federation supports the goal of controlling misinformation, crime, and security threats, its president, Sunaina Ghimire Pandey, asserts that a ban is not a sustainable solution. The Federation emphasizes that such a move would have widespread negative consequences, affecting a significant portion of the Nepalese population and economy.

The Devastating Economic Impact

A social media ban in Nepal would have a direct and severe impact on businesses and employment. According to the CAN Federation, roughly 70% of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) depend on these platforms for marketing, sales, and customer engagement. The consequences of a shutdown would include:

Financial losses for thousands of digital content creators and online businesses.

Job losses within the burgeoning digital economy.

The collapse of online business models that rely on social media for outreach and customer interaction.

A Threat to Social Connection and Cybersecurity

Beyond the economic implications, a ban poses a significant threat to the daily lives of Nepalese citizens. Social media serves as a primary communication tool for many, especially for the millions of Nepalese working abroad who use these platforms to stay connected with their families. Blocking this vital link could lead to social and psychological distress.

Furthermore, CAN Federation’s General Secretary, Chandra Bilash Bhurtel, warns of a major cybersecurity risk. A ban would not stop people from using social media; instead, it would push them toward insecure alternatives like VPNs and open DNS services. This widespread use of unmanaged connections could:

Degrade internet quality across Nepal.

Increase operational costs for service providers, which would ultimately be passed on to consumers.

Create new vulnerabilities to cyber threats.

A Call for Balanced, Long-Term Solutions

The CAN Federation is urging the government to adopt a more thoughtful approach. Instead of an immediate ban, the Federation suggests a gradual process that involves stakeholder discussions and the creation of a clear, modern regulatory framework.

The Federation recommends that Nepal look to successful international models, such as the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA) and India’s Intermediary Guidelines. These examples demonstrate that it is possible to create a safe digital environment without resorting to a complete shutdown.

Key elements for Nepal’s framework should include:

Establishing clear legal guidelines for platform operation.

Mandating the creation of local contact offices for international companies.

Promoting an investment-friendly environment to encourage long-term collaboration.

Conclusion: The Need for Practical Digital Policy

The CAN Federation has expressed its readiness to collaborate with the government by providing technical expertise and sharing international best practices. The organization believes that the solution lies in balanced regulation, not in cutting off citizens and businesses from a critical part of modern communication and commerce.

This ongoing debate underscores the urgent need for a practical digital policy in Nepal that can both protect citizens and foster innovation and economic growth.

For more: CAN Federation Opposes Social Media Ban