Cyber Law at Syria
Syria's legal framework governing cyber activities has undergone significant changes with the enactment of Law No. 20 of 2022, commonly referred to as the Cybercrime Law. This legislation has raised serious concerns among human rights organizations due to its broad and vague provisions that potentially infringe upon freedom of expression and digital privacy.
⚖️ Overview of Law No. 20 of 2022
Enacted on April 18, 2022, and effective from May 18, 2022, Law No. 20 of 2022 aims to address cybercrimes in Syria. The law comprises 50 articles that expand the definition of cybercrime to include various forms of digital content shared online, particularly on social media platforms. Penalties under this law range from one month to 15 years in prison and fines from 200,000 to 15 million Syrian pounds (approximately €26 to €1,900).
🔍 Key Provisions and Concerns
1. Expanded Definition of Cybercrime
Article 1 of the law broadens the scope of cybercrime to encompass any criminal behavior committed using information technology, targeting information or information systems, and including the act of sharing content online, This expansion allows authorities to prosecute individuals for a wide range of online activities, including sharing content on social media platforms.
2. Crimes Against the Constitution
Article 27 stipulates severe penalties for individuals who establish or manage a website or publish digital content with the intent of-
-Provoking actions aiming to change the constitution by illegal mean
-Excluding part of Syrian territory from the sovereignty of the state
-Provoking armed rebellion against existing authorities
-Overthrowing or changing the system of government, Offenders may face temporary detention from seven to fifteen years and fines ranging from 10 to 15 million Syrian pounds.
3. Undermining State Prestige and National Unity
Article 28 penalizes the publication of false news that undermines the prestige of the state or prejudices national unity, Penalties include temporary imprisonment from three to five years and fines ranging from 5 to 10 million Syrian pounds, This provision has been criticized for its vague language, which could be used to suppress dissenting opinions.
4. Electronic Slander and Decency Violations
Articles 24 and 26 address electronic slander and violations of decency or modesty online, Penalties vary based on the severity of the offense, with higher fines and longer prison sentences for offenses involving public employees or minors, While these provisions aim to combat cyberbullying and harassment, they have been criticized for their potential misuse to target individuals, particularly women, for perceived moral violations.
5. Mandatory Data Retention by Internet Service Providers
Article 3(a)(1) obliges internet service providers to save traffic data for all subscribers for a period determined by the competent authorities, This requirement has been described as a violation of digital privacy, providing security services with easy access to information related to online activists.
📌 Summary
Syria's Cybercrime Law No. 20 of 2022 introduces stringent measures that significantly broaden the scope of cybercrimes and impose severe penalties for a wide range of online activitie. While the law aims to address cybercrimes, its broad and vague provisions have raised concerns about potential infringements on freedom of expression and digital privacy. Human rights organizations have criticized the law for its potential to suppress dissent and limit online freedom.
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