Anonymous voices reflect openness, but misinformation and hate speech remain key concerns, says MoICE Minister
TIL BDR GHALLEY | Thimphu
The Royal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding freedom of expression while urging responsible use of social media amid the growing presence of anonymous online accounts.
Lyonpo Namgay Dorji, Minister for Industry, Commerce & Employment (MoICE) during the 21st meet the press session held on 31 October, stated that the concern is not anonymity itself, but the nature of the content being shared.
According to the Minister, “While our Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, that freedom must be exercised responsibly and within the bounds of law—it cannot extend to misinformation, hate speech, or content that threatens public order or social harmony.”
The statement comes at a time when the number of anonymous social media accounts and digital discussion groups continues to rise, shaping public discourse across platforms. The government acknowledged that the expansion of such online spaces presents new challenges in ensuring accountability and maintaining civility in public communication.
The Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA) continues to monitor online content and collaborate with social media platforms to address violations. However, the minister noted that as platforms multiply and conversations move into private or encrypted groups, enforcing content standards becomes increasingly complex.
“The Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA) continues to monitor online content and works with social media platforms to address violations. However, as platforms multiply and discussions move into closed groups, enforcement remains a global challenge, not one unique to Bhutan,” the minister stated.
Officials emphasised that online regulation must balance the rights of citizens to express their views freely with the need to prevent the spread of harmful or false information that can disrupt social harmony or undermine trust in institutions.
On the issue of whistleblower protection, the minister clarified that such provisions are already enshrined in the Anti-Corruption Act of 2011, under Chapter 7, which ensures the confidentiality and safety of witnesses and informants.
“While this falls outside the jurisdiction of the MoICE, we strongly support all efforts that strengthen accountability and transparency across institutions,” the minister added.
The government reiterated its support for mechanisms that allow individuals to report wrongdoing or corruption without fear of retaliation, recognising the importance of such safeguards in maintaining integrity and public confidence.
Despite concerns over extreme or offensive content from some anonymous accounts, the ministry acknowledged that the active participation of citizens online reflects Bhutan’s growing culture of open expression.
“If we look at the prevailing use of social media by anonymous accounts in Bhutan, some of the content is indeed disturbing and extreme, often expressed without restraint. But this also tells us something important—it shows that people here feel free to speak and express themselves without fear of reprisal,” the minister said.
The government highlighted that this openness is a sign of democratic maturity, underscoring that Bhutanese citizens continue to engage in public discourse “far more safely and confidently than in many other places.”
While reaffirming its commitment to protect individual freedoms, the minister cautioned that Bhutan’s small and close-knit society relies deeply on social cohesion and mutual respect. It stressed that freedom of expression must go hand in hand with the preservation of unity and shared national values.
“Bhutan is a small and close-knit society where social cohesion is vital. Under the wise leadership of His Majesty The King, and supported by well-placed democratic institutions, individual liberty and freedom remain fully assured,” the minister stated.
The statement also reminded citizens of the importance of maintaining a positive national image, particularly at a time when His Majesty The King is leading ambitious nation-building efforts, including the Gelephu Mindfulness City, which aims to drive Bhutan’s long-term economic transformation and well-being.
“What truly matters is our collective progress and the image of our country, especially now, when His Majesty is sacrificing so much for our well-being through ambitious nation-building initiatives like the Gelephu Mindfulness City,” the Minister said. “Our collective narrative and image matter so much. Our unity and shared purpose remain the foundation of our national strength.”
The government’s message underscores the evolving role of citizens in shaping Bhutan’s digital discourse. While anonymity allows individuals to express views without fear, authorities emphasise that responsibility and respect for truth must remain central to online behaviour.
As Bhutan continues to expand its digital infrastructure and connectivity, the government’s stance reflects a broader vision — one that promotes open dialogue while upholding the nation’s deeply rooted values of respect, harmony, and shared responsibility.
In reiterating its stand, the minister stated that freedom of speech is a fundamental right guaranteed by the Constitution, but it must always be exercised in a manner that contributes to unity and constructive national progress.
