SA Human Rights Commission launched a social media charter

Commission for Human Rights in South Africa launched social media charter-

In an effort to combat the unsociable and unconstitutional behavior on social media, the South African Human Rights Commission has launched a social media charter.

Nelson Mandela University or SA Human Rights Commission launched the social media charter on Tuesday.

In her remarks to the well-attended event, Eastern Cape Commissioner, Dr Eileen Carter, said social media abuse has prevented marginalised groups from having a voice.

Over 70 percent of women have experienced abuse in various forms, including discrimination, being offended, harassed, and body shamed on social media, while 90 percent witnessed this happening to other women.

Moreover, Dr Carter said that the Charter would be used to “zoom in on users who open fake accounts and spread fake news.”

We can hire tracking agents and contact you, as well as subpoena social media houses for access to your information and the IP address you used to open the account.

“I can get your telephone number and email address- anonymity is no longer an option,” Carter said.

Prof André Keet, Nelson Mandela University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Engagement and Transformation, said the launch was timely.

According to Keet, the Charter would benefit parents, university students, and employers as well.

We want our students and staff to harness the full potential of the digital environment, however, they must remain aware of the risks they pose to themselves and to humanity as a whole.”

How does the social media charter work?

With a focus on children, it aims to promote awareness and suggest ways in which social media platforms can be used responsibly.

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The document provides guidance for social media users on what is acceptable and unacceptable. It covers topics such as — harmful expression, defamation, privacy, crimen injuria, harassment, bullying, image-based violence, disinformation, misinformation, child safety, and cyberbullying.

Moreover, it provides definitions and the steps a person should take when their or another’s rights are violated. The recommendations, if followed, will help reduce the misuse of social media.

To strengthen Constitutional democracy, the Commission will use the Charter to educate on human rights and create strong, independent, and capable citizens.