Bangladesh Proposes Tougher Cyber Law Amid AI-Generated Abuse Concerns

• •Bangladesh's proposed cyber law aims to tackle AI-generated disinformation.
• •Critics warn the law could revive repressive measures against free speech.
• •The government intends to present the draft law to Parliament soon.

Bangladesh is revising its Cyber Protection (Amendment) Act to address AI-generated content, particularly targeting disinformation and online abuse. The draft law, currently under review, has sparked significant debate over its implications for freedom of speech. Critics, including opposition lawmakers and civil society groups, argue that the vague definitions of offenses could lead to repression reminiscent of previous laws. The government claims the amendments aim to combat online harassment while safeguarding expression. The proposed changes include criminalizing AI-generated defamatory content and expanding government powers to manage online content. This follows a campaign season where AI-manipulated media was used extensively, particularly against female political figures. The government plans to present the bill to Parliament, despite ongoing opposition from various sectors. The situation remains fluid as public discourse continues around the law's potential impact.