Gabon Enacts Strict Social Media Regulations, Mandating Identity Verification
Gabon has introduced a comprehensive social media ordinance that eliminates online anonymity and imposes strict identity verification requirements. The ordinance, dated February 26, 2026, but published recently, mandates that individuals seeking access to digital platforms must provide their name, address, and Personal Identification Number (PIN). Digital service providers are required to verify the identities of users residing in Gabon. The law also sets a digital age of majority at 16 years, requiring parental consent for younger users to access social media. Platforms must implement age verification systems and filter sensitive content. Additionally, social media group administrators are tasked with moderating content and reporting violations. The ordinance introduces 'joint liability' for users involved in disseminating illegal content, although the definition of 'illegal' remains unclear. Other measures include transparency for automated content and a prohibition on harmful deepfakes. Identity theft u... 
