Overview: The bill and the call for inclusion
The General Secretary of the New Media Association of Ghana has called for a stakeholder-inclusive approach to the government’s proposed Misinformation and Disinformation Bill. The association argues that content creators, bloggers, and online journalists must have a seat at the table as the framework is developed. Proponents say that without input from those who regularly produce and distribute online content, the bill risks overreach, misinterpretation, and unintended consequences for legitimate expression.
Why inclusion matters for a balanced bill
Content creators operate at the front lines of information exchange in Ghana’s digital ecosystem. They curate, report, and comment on issues ranging from politics to public health. Involving them in drafting can help authorities distinguish between harmful misinformation and legitimate, protected speech. The association highlights that creators often work under diverse pressures, from platform policies to community standards, and thus bring practical insights on what enforcement looks like in real life.
Key concerns raised by the New Media Association
The association’s stance centers on several core concerns:
- Clear definitions: Ambiguity around terms like misinformation and disinformation can lead to arbitrary enforcement. Content creators emphasize precise criteria to prevent chilling effects on lawful discourse.
- Proportional remedies: Measures should target deliberate, malicious acts rather than broad censorship that dampens legitimate debate.
- Protection for journalists and bloggers: Safeguards are needed to protect investigative journalism and opinion pieces while still addressing harmful content.
- Transparency and accountability: The process for creating, interpreting, and enforcing the bill should be open, with avenues for oversight and appeal.
What inclusion could look like in practice
Possible avenues for participation include public consultation sessions, expert roundtables, and a formal advisory panel comprising content creators, legal observers, and media researchers. The New Media Association argues that an inclusive process could result in a bill that better reflects Ghana’s digital realities. Such collaboration may also enhance public trust, signaling that policymakers value input from the people most affected by the law.
Impacts on freedom of expression and innovation
Digital voices in Ghana are expanding opportunities for entrepreneurship and civic engagement. The association warns that overly punitive provisions could slow innovation, discourage independent reporting, and push creators toward unreceptive or opaque platforms. By involving creators in drafting, lawmakers can craft balanced guidelines that defend the public from disinformation without stifling creativity or critical inquiry.
Industry perspective and the path forward
Experts in media law and digital rights note that the best reforms come from collaborative processes that include diverse stakeholders. The New Media Association’s call to participate aligns with a broader trend toward participatory governance in technology policy. If the government accepts this invitation, a more robust, implementable framework could emerge—one that protects the public while preserving a vibrant, pluralistic online ecosystem.
Conclusion: A proactive approach to governance
As the debate around the Misinformation and Disinformation Bill progresses, the push from Ghana’s New Media Association highlights a critical insight: governance of online information benefits from the voices of those who create, share, and analyze it. Inclusivity in drafting is not just a procedural step; it is a strategic move toward clearer laws, fewer unintended consequences, and a healthier digital public square.
