Banned social media interferes with digital marketing and communication

The PTA should adopt a more comprehensive view of digital governance that includes important fiscal considerations to ensure that short-term policies do not undermine or weaken the importance of the economy over the long term.

Pakistan’s ban on X (formerly Twitter) was recently lifted after it was blocked during the 2024 elections, indicating that the ban could seriously harm its business. The decision by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to withdraw its decision, which was upheld by the Sindh High Court (SHC), raises the general question of how digital platforms represent a significant part of business and development in the world.

Digital media thieves – social mafia…. Integration has moved beyond being a personal space, it has now become a significant level of business or work…. In the business ecosystem, especially in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), large and frequent restrictions can hinder the visibility of customers and therefore the introduction of their ideas to the market. In a country like Pakistan, where the digital economy is still in its infancy and SMEs are already investing heavily in social media to increase value, these restrictions become a major problem. Suspension

In addition, digital marketers, influencers, and freelancers, who are a significant part of Pakistan’s gig economy, have also been negatively impacted. Professionals in verticals like X rely on the platform to attract local and international clients. The delay will lead to loss of income, loss of jobs, and reduced foreign investment in freelancing. They not only have a large influence on social media, but they also have a deep presence in the business world.

It pales in comparison to its impact on business confidence. In today’s global business world, we must pursue digital presence to be seen. Countries with stable and reliable digital infrastructure and democracy will attract more investors, especially in technology/startup-heavy sectors. Unilateral closure of communication platforms signals instability and unpredictability; these two factors will divert domestic and foreign investment to other areas.

The country is reforming its high-tech economy and is reaching a critical turning point in its long history of economic struggle, service disruptions, corruption and political crisis. However, the ongoing impact on large digital platforms could hurt already established platforms. Potential entrepreneurs in technology, e-commerce and digital services will reconsider if India sees regulatory stability or continues to disappear due to the seemingly negative changes in the process.

This raises the question of how the SHC can legally take action on this issue. The court ordered the Home Office to withdraw its decision to remove X, warning that this move would only harm us. As this document shows, the PTA eventually reversed its decision due to the lack of discretionary oversight (checks and balances), and now is an important time to have strong digital governance. Policy interventions affecting the digital economy of these issues should be debatable in nature and based on long-term decisions that balance the needs of firm security and economic development.

While Pakistan is showing the way for the growth of the digital economy, the real question for Pakistan is what to do with platforms like X. Yes, temporary restrictions may be necessary for security reasons, but they should not be due to the growth of the economy. From private businesses to freelancers and potential traders in the sector, the security of the digital environment is essential for business continuity.

Going forward, the PTA should take a more comprehensive view of digital governance that includes key fiscal considerations to ensure that short-term policies do not seek to influence or interfere with the country’s long-term economic importance.