Vietnam’s Ministry of Information and Communications proposed to supplement regulations on licensing for social network users who want to play online videos (live stream).
This proposal is made in the draft Decree to replace two current regulations: Decree 72 on management, provision and use of Internet services & online information, and Decree 27 amending and supplementing Decree 72. State media of Vietnam announced on July 18.
Specifically, the ministry stated that only social networks that have been licensed by this agency to provide social networking services can broadcast online videos (live stream) or provide revenue-generating activities in any form (excluding e-commerce activities).
The ministry believes that real-time online information has a rapid impact on society. The ministry said that currently on foreign social networks such as Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, etc., there is information that is considered to be “fake, malicious, libelous, insulting to the reputation, honor and dignity of organizations and individuals; propagate superstition; content that infringes copyright… affects the honor and reputation of organizations and businesses and the interests of social network users.”
In fact, many social network account holders both inside and outside Vietnam have long used real-time video streaming to express their views, present daily activities, etc.
Many activists, bloggers and dissidents use this tool to peacefully exercise their right to freedom of expression and speech, which they believe is enshrined in the Constitution; However, many of them were arrested and sentenced to prison on charges of “conducting anti-state propaganda” or “abusing democratic freedoms, infringing upon the State’s interests…” according to Articles 117 and Article 331 of the Criminal Code.
Thoibao.de (Translated)
