Govt trying to bring Facebook, Google servers to Bangladesh: Policy Adviser Fayez

The government is trying to bring the servers of major tech giants like Facebook and Google to Bangladesh, Policy Adviser to the ICT Division Fayez Ahmed Tayeb said today (29 January).

"The absence of these servers causes various challenges," he said during the 19th Bangladesh Internet Governance Forum at the Dhaka University's MIS Department conference hall.

Fayez clarified that unlike the previous government, the current administration does not seek to delete individuals' posts from Meta or request information that could harass citizens.

"Such requests are only made in cases involving cryptocurrency or financial fraud. While some concerns have been addressed based on public feedback, the existing framework remains insufficient and will require updates over time," he added.

The adviser further noted that Bangladesh lacks content delivery network (CDN) servers and deep packet inspection (DPI) servers, which means the country has no sovereignty over its internet infrastructure.

Speaking at the forum as chief guest, Bangladesh Telecommunications Regulatory Commission Director General Brigadier General Mohammad Khalil-ur-Rahman emphasised that cybersecurity can be ensured through guidelines and awareness, not laws.

He said the internet must never be shut down, as it is now a fundamental human right.

"Therefore, its proper and rational use must be promoted. However, there is a lack of interest among young people, bureaucrats, and politicians at the international level, which needs attention. No one owns the internet—it belongs to everyone," he added.

Regarding the Social Obligation Fund (SOF), Khalil said the fund is used to expand internet access in remote and underprivileged areas. "If anyone has any ideas regarding this, please share them with us."

Bangladesh Internet Governance Forum Chairperson Aminul Hakim stated that the security of this global village should be ensured through awareness rather than laws.

He emphasised that young people must educate themselves about their responsibilities on the internet. "The internet is not just a technology, it is our digital right. There should be measures in place to prevent any government from shutting it down in the future."

During the discussion, Zyma Islam, senior reporter at The Daily Star, criticised the Digital Security Act, calling it a failed law.

She claimed that the previous government used it as a tool to suppress people by positioning national security against citizens' rights.