The Online Safety Commission has issued a timely warning as conversations surrounding the Miss Fiji Pageant intensify, urging individuals to communicate responsibly online to mitigate the risk of emotional harm. While acknowledging the public’s right to voice concerns regarding decisions made by pageant officials or contestants, the Commission underscores the importance of articulating these sentiments with care on social media and other digital platforms.
Under the framework of the Online Safety Act of 2018, causing harm through electronic communication is classified as a criminal offense, punishable by significant penalties that can include up to five years in prison and fines approaching $20,000. The Commission notes that when courts evaluate complaints of serious emotional distress, they consider the nature of the language or imagery used, how widely the content was shared, and the overall context of the comments made.
In this context, the Commission encourages the public to pause and think before posting, sharing, or spreading any comments or media online. This campaign seeks to nurture a more respectful digital landscape and promotes a culture of constructive dialogue rather than one marred by negativity. By advocating for thoughtful discourse, the Commission hopes to foster a positive atmosphere where diverse opinions can be shared without causing undue emotional distress.