G20 adopts statement on preventing exploitation of the Internet for terrorism and violent extremism conducive to terrorism (VECT)

The G20 leaders adopted the ‘G20 Osaka leaders’ statement on preventing exploitation of the Internet for terrorism and violent extremism conducive to terrorism (VECT)‘  after the Osaka Summit. The statement raises the bar of expectations for online platforms to protect their users from terrorist and VECT exploitation of the Internet, by not facilitating terrorism and VECT, and by preventing such content from being streamed, uploaded, or re-uploaded. Where such content appears, online platforms should address it in a timely manner to prevent proliferation. G20 countries also reaffirmed their commitment to protect their citizens from terrorist and VECT exploitation of the Internet, including through international fora and initiatives, such as the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism (GIFCT). The statement also highlighted the need to counter terrorist propaganda with positive narratives. In relation to cybersecurity, the Declaration called for enhancing cyber resilience, and addressing security gaps and vulnerabilities.