Across South Asia, the internet is a powerful space for connection, creativity, and activism but with growing online threats, censorship, and limited awareness of digital rights, that space is becoming harder to navigate safely and freely. To better understand these challenges, Digitally Right is pleased to present the study “Tech Policy in South Asia- An Evolving Landscape”, developed as part of the Protecting Online Rights of Changemakers (PORCH) project. The research was conducted in collaboration with Internews, along with regional partners Digitally Right (Bangladesh), CUTS International (India), Youth Innovation Lab (Nepal), Digital Turtles (Sri Lanka), and Tattle (India).
The study explores how young people and women in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka experience digital platforms, and how current laws and policies impact their rights to expression, privacy, and safety online.
Findings reveal low awareness of digital rights across the region. Many respondents, especially women, face online harassment and do not feel free to express themselves online. Internet shutdowns, surveillance, and vague cyber laws contribute to a growing climate of fear and self-censorship. Despite being active users, women and youth remain largely excluded from digital policy discussions.
Based on surveys, focus group discussions, and expert interviews, the report highlights the urgent need for inclusive policymaking and stronger protections for digital rights in South Asia.