The problem with social media is bigger than who gets access

Governments around the world are imposing stricter rules on social media use, shifting the focus from regulating content to regulating access. Countries like Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia are implementing policies such as identity verification, platform licensing and age restrictions. Dr Chew Han Ei, Senior Research Fellow from the Institute of Policy Studies at the NUS Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, highlights that while these measures aim to enhance online safety, especially for younger users, they risk excluding vulnerable groups, anonymous users, and those unable to verify their identity, potentially pushing them toward less regulated platforms.

Dr Chew cautions that true digital safety goes beyond gatekeeping; social media systems need to be redesigned to ensure that they can respond to failures and hold up under pressure. He added that rather than relying solely on access controls, a safer internet requires platforms to be accountable, and are equipped with robust reporting tools, responsible algorithms, responsive moderation, and interface designs that prioritise user safety and well-being.

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