The regulatory framework for over-the-top (OTT) services is being strengthened by the government of Pakistan, which has made notable progress in this regard.

With the conclusion of discussions involving all significant parties, a project led by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has just achieved a significant milestone.

Numerous systems, including well-known messaging apps like WhatsApp, Skype, Facebook Messenger, Emo, and Viber, are expected to be governed by the proposed framework. Furthermore included in the scope of this law are social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, as well as services associated with online gambling and e-commerce.

In accordance with the framework agreement, services will be divided into three groups:

All systems that facilitate communication, including Skype, Facebook Messenger, Emo, WhatsApp, and Viber, will fall under the category of communication services.

Applications: This group will comprise sites such as LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and other e-services as well as e-commerce and gaming platforms.

Websites like YouTube, Netflix, Spotify, and Video on Demand (VOD) services fall under the category of non-broadcasting services.

Additionally included by the rule are broadcasting services, which include social media platforms with a Pakistani audience. The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PICA) 2016, the PEMRA Ordinance 2002, and the PTA Act 1996 will provide the framework as a whole.

All parties and companies must act in accordance with local regulations, which is one of the main provisions of the new framework. A license or registration from the appropriate internal body must be obtained by all platforms within a year in the event that the Federal Cabinet approves the framework.

PTA and the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) together regulate media digital services, indicating a unified strategy to controlling the nation’s digital ecosystem.

In addition to ensuring that all services are in line with national interests and security concerns, the move attempts to improve monitoring.

An important step forward in Pakistan’s regulation of digital and communication services will be taken if the Federal Cabinet gives its final assent to this framework.