South African Human Rights Commission
The South African Human Rights Commission has launched its social media charter- a move that will hopefully counteract the unsociable and unconstitutional conduct on social media.
The charter was launched at Nelson Mandela University on Tuesday.
Speaking at the well-attended event, Eastern Cape Commissioner, Dr Eileen Carter, said abuse online has hindered the voices of marginalised groups, and the charter was developed to give them a voice on social media.
She said more than 70 percent of women have faced abuse in various forms, including discrimination, being offended, harassed, and body shamed on social media, while 90 percent have witnessed this happening to other women.
Expanding further on the Charter, Dr Carter also said that it would be used to "zoom in on users who open fake accounts and spread fake news."
“We can appoint tracking agents and we can get a hold of you, we can also subpoena social media houses to access your information and the IP address that you used to open the account.
“I can have your telephone number and email address- anonymity is no longer a way out,” Carter added.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Engagement and Transformation at Nelson Mandela University, Prof André Keet, said the launch took place at the most opportune time.
Keet says the Charter would help parents, university students, and also employers.
“Our digital environment is foregrounded in our endeavours, we want our students and staff to harness its full potential. However, they need to be mindful of the threats to themselves and to humanity in general whilst deploying those platforms.”
What is in the Charter?
It seeks to create awareness and suggest ways in which social media platforms can be used responsibly while being aware of the rights of the user and other persons with a sharp focus on children.
“The Charter has been crafted in an easy-to-understand manner while taking into consideration the prevailing law in South Africa.”
“It sets out a guidance note for social media users explaining what is acceptable and unacceptable. Guidance notes are provided for issues such as — harmful expression, defamation, privacy, crimen injuria, harassment and bullying, image-based violence, disinformation, misinformation, the safety of children, and cyberbullying.
It further provides definitions and the steps a person can take if their rights or the rights of others are violated. The recommended solutions will, if adhered to, help reduce the misuse of social media.
Through the Charter, the Commission will carry out its obligation to educate on human rights and create strong, independent, and capable citizens — thereby helping to strengthen Constitutional democracy.
