The Global System for Mobile Communications (GSMA) has voiced concerns about the restrictions on connectivity and internet services in Pakistan.
The Global System for Mobile Communications (GSMA) has voiced concerns about the restrictions on connectivity and internet services in Pakistan.
GSMA stated that in addition to the harm imposed on businesses, restrictions can have an adverse effect on credit and investment plans, ultimately harming the country’s reputation for managing the economy and attracting foreign investment.
In a letter, Julian Gorman, the head of the Asia Pacific GSMA, expressed his worries to the minister of information technology and telecommunications regarding the internet services restriction order in Pakistan.
Another fatal blow against digital Pakistan and the nation’s future depend on the blocking of mobile broadband. Every day that is closed adds more people, which causes long-term damage to the GDP. Restore data flow, he continued.
The GSMA, which represents the interests of mobile operators worldwide, expressed concern in the letter regarding the effects that the current internet service restrictions are having on Pakistani citizens and businesses.
Individuals and organisations in today’s digital societies depend on connectivity to support their daily operations and gain access to crucial services and information. The welfare of citizens‘ health, education, social life, and economy can all be significantly impacted by prolonged restrictions.
In addition to hurting businesses, restrictions may also affect credit and investment plans, which may harm the nation’s standing as a manager of the economy and foreign investment.
The GSMA discourages the use of service restriction orders, which should be supported by ongoing situational and impact monitoring, analysis, and decision-making processes. Only in exceptional and predetermined circumstances, and only if necessary and proportionate to achieve a specific and legitimate aim, should the power to restrict services be used.
The GSMA calls on the government to immediately lift the service suspension and restore access, and is prepared to contribute positively wherever it is needed to enhance the procedure and guarantee business continuity.