ASEAN Regional Coalition to #StopDigitalDictatorship Online Safety (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act (2022) The Online Criminal Harms Act (2023) It introduces stricter regulations and penalties for individuals and entities engaged in online criminal activities. Election (2020) the ruling People's Action Party (PAP), led by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, maintained its uninterrupted hold on power despite a notable decline in popular support. The PAP, in power since 1959, secured a super majority by winning 83 out of 93 seats in parliament. The remaining 10 seats were claimed by the Workers' Party, marking the highest number ever held by opposition lawmakers since Singapore's first general election in 1968. Despite its victory, the PAP's share of the popular vote saw a decline to 61.2%, compared to nearly 70% five years ago and approaching the party's record low of 60% in 2011. The election recorded a high voter turnout of nearly 96%. SINGAPORE Regulation on Prevention, Suppression, and Solving Problems of Fake News Dissemination on Social Media (2022) Many critics fear that this regulation could be used abusively by authorities to censor dissenting opinions and suppress freedom of expression. Some view this measure as an infringement on media freedom and democracy, as it grants authorities extensive powers to control and filter online content. The Notice Procedure, the Suppression of Dissemination of Computer Data and the Deletion of Computer Data from the System B.E. 2565 (2022) The law empowers authorities to issue notices to internet service providers (ISPs) and online platforms to remove or suppress content deemed illegal or harmful. Elections (2023) Progressive and pro-democracy opposition parties, notably the Move Forward Party led by Pita Limjaroenrat, secured a significant victory in Thailand's recent elections. This outcome challenges the long-standing dominance of military-backed incumbents, signaling a strong desire for change among Thai voters. The Move Forward Party is projected to win 151 seats, the highest in the House, while the populist Pheu Thai Party is expected to secure 141 seats. Together, they hold at least 292 seats in the 500-member House. However, challenges persist in forming a government due to the military's influence, particularly through the appointed Senate. Move Forward is currently 67 votes short of the majority needed for Pita Limjaroenrat to become prime minister, leaving uncertainties about potential government formation. Decree 15/2020/NĐ-CP It criminalises the dissemination of false and misleading information, insulting reputations, damaging moral or social values, and revealing state secrets. Decree No. 53/2022/ND-CP The decree imposes stricter requirements on internet service providers and social media platforms to monitor and remove content deemed to be harmful or illegal, particularly content related to national security, public order, and social morality. Decree No. 72/2023/ND-CP The decree imposes stricter requirements on social media companies operating in Vietnam, including the establishment of local representative offices and the appointment of local representatives responsible for compliance with Vietnamese laws. It also mandates that social media platforms must remove content deemed to be illegal or violating Vietnamese laws within 24 hours of receiving a request from competent authorities. Elections (2021) Luong The Huy and pro-democracy forces scored a surprising victory in Vietnam's May 2021 general elections, dealing a significant blow to militarybacked incumbents. The progressive Move Forward Party, led by Pita Limjaroenrat, is projected to win 151 seats, while the populist Pheu Thai is expected to secure 141 seats, collectively holding at least 292 out of 500 seats in the House. Elections (2023) Vietnam's National Assembly appointed Vo Van Thuong as the new president in a leadership reshuffle amid an anti-graft campaign. Thuong, 52, secured the position with 98.38% of the votes in the largely ceremonial role. His appointment follows the abrupt resignation of his predecessor Nguyen Xuan Phuc in January, linked to alleged "violations and wrongdoing." Thuong, a Politburo member and anti-corruption advocate, pledged to continue the fight against corruption. Seen as close to General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, Thuong's election is considered a step towards leadership stability, reassuring investors and signaling continuity in foreign and economic policies. THAILAND VIETNAM 28 The law grants extensive authority to block online content as deemed necessary by the government. Dawn of Digital Dictatorship: Weaponizing the Law Against Online Speech in Southeast Asia