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| Meta & Google Office in Bangladesh | SEVEN KAL |
Dhaka, Bangladesh: As Bangladesh's digital economy continues to grow, questions are being raised about why major global technology companies such as Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, and Google, the owner of YouTube, do not maintain full local offices in the country.
With millions of Bangladeshis using these platforms every day, experts say the absence of local offices has complicated efforts to address online misinformation, cybercrime, harassment, and harmful digital content.
According to digital policy analysts, a local corporate presence could improve communication between technology companies, regulators, courts, and law enforcement agencies. It may also help speed up responses to lawful requests involving content moderation and legal compliance.
However, many experts caution that establishing local offices alone would not solve every challenge. They argue that effective digital governance also requires modern legislation, transparent regulatory frameworks, judicial oversight, international cooperation, and greater public awareness of online safety.
Around the world, governments have introduced different legal frameworks to regulate digital platforms. The European Union has implemented the Digital Services Act (DSA), while the United Kingdom enforces the Online Safety Act. India regulates intermediaries under its Information Technology Rules, and the United States relies on a combination of federal laws, court decisions, and constitutional protections for freedom of expression.
Bangladesh has also been discussing legal reforms aimed at strengthening cybersecurity, tackling online misinformation, and improving responses to digital crimes. Policymakers have indicated that updates to the country's cyber laws are being considered to address emerging challenges, including AI-generated misleading content.
Digital rights advocates stress that any future regulatory framework should balance public safety with the protection of freedom of expression and privacy. They also emphasize that enforcement should remain transparent, proportionate, and consistent with internationally recognized human rights principles.
As debates continue, one question remains at the center of public discussion: Should global technology companies establish a stronger local presence in Bangladesh to improve accountability and cooperation?
The answer may shape the country's digital future as Bangladesh continues expanding its online economy and strengthening its cyber governance.
Source: Analysis based on publicly discussed digital policy issues and expert opinions. This report is intended for informational purposes and should not be interpreted as an official statement from Meta, Google, or the Government of Bangladesh.
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