New Vietnamese Internet Rule: Decree 147 Mandates User Verification for Social Media Platforms In a significant move that has stirred debate and concern among digital rights advocates, the Vietnamese government has enacted Decree 147, an internet regulation that compels major social media platforms, including Facebook and TikTok, to verify the identities of their users. This decree mandates that all users must register their accounts using phone numbers or identification numbers, and it requires these platforms to store personal data and provide it to authorities upon request.
Key Provisions of Decree 147 Under Decree 147, tech giants are now obligated to ensure that all accounts are verified before users can access certain features, notably the ability to livestream content. This provision directly impacts a significant number of Vietnamese users who have turned to social commerce as a source of income, leveraging platforms like TikTok and Facebook to reach customers and conduct business. With the new rule in place, only verified accounts will have the ability to engage in these revenue-generating activities, potentially crippling the livelihoods of many small entrepreneurs and content creators. The decree reflects a broader trend in Vietnam’s approach to internet governance, as authorities seek to exert greater control over the online space. The requirement for user verification is positioned as a means to enhance safety and accountability, but critics argue that it raises serious concerns about privacy and freedom of expression.
Criticisms and Concerns Advocates for digital rights have voiced strong objections to Decree 147, arguing that it infringes upon basic freedoms and civil liberties. They contend that the mandatory identification process can lead to increased surveillance and censorship, drawing parallels to China’s stringent internet censorship measures. Critics emphasize that such regulations create a chilling effect on free speech, as users may be deterred from expressing their views or sharing content due to fear of government scrutiny. Furthermore, the implementation of Decree 147 could disproportionately affect marginalized communities and individuals who lack access to proper identification or reliable internet connectivity, further entrenching inequalities in the digital space.
The Broader Context Vietnam’s internet landscape has been increasingly characterized by stringent regulations aimed at controlling online discourse. The government has previously enacted laws to restrict content deemed harmful or politically sensitive, and Decree 147 is seen as a continuation of this trend. Supporters of the decree argue that it is necessary for maintaining social order and protecting users from harmful content, yet the balance between regulation and freedom remains a contentious issue. As digital platforms play an increasingly vital role in the economy and society, the implications of Decree 147 will be closely monitored by both domestic and international observers. The decree not only highlights the ongoing struggle over internet governance in Vietnam but also raises important questions about the future of digital rights in an era of rapid technological advancement.
Decree 147 represents a pivotal moment in Vietnam’s internet policy, with far-reaching consequences for social media users and content creators. As the government moves to enforce stricter regulations, the response from the public and advocacy groups will be crucial in shaping the future of digital freedoms in the country. The balance between regulation and personal liberty will remain a key issue as Vietnam navigates its place in the global digital landscape.
