Barbados

Cybercrime Bill, 2024 (First Reading in Senate): The Cybercrime Bill, 2024, had its first reading in the Senate, continuing its legislative process.

Cybercrime Bill, 2024 (Passed House of Assembly): A bill to replace the Computer Misuse Act, proposing to criminalize online content causing 'annoyance' or 'emotional distress', including 'pornographic' or 'obscene' material. Passed the House of Assembly.

Data Protection Act: Defines data, restricts possession of personal data, and includes provisions on data protection principles, sensitive personal data processing, confidentiality, and data subject rights.

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA): Allows citizens and media personnel access to government-held information, promoting transparency and accountability.

Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters (Amendment) Act: Implements the Caribbean Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Serious Criminal Matters.

Computer Misuse Act, Chapter 124B: Legal framework to safeguard computer systems and data from unauthorized access, misuse, and cyber-related crimes. Criminalizes illegal access, data interference, illegal interception, child pornography, and malicious communications.

Constitution of Barbados (amended): Enshrines the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms of the individual.

Telecommunications Act: Regulates the telecommunications sector, including internet services, radio, and television. Created the Telecommunications Unit and regulates content to prevent unlawful purposes like hate speech or harmful content.

Barbados Copyright Act (specific provisions): Specifically criminalizes infringement committed by means of a 'telecommunication system'.

Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act: Detailed act for international cooperation in criminal matters.

Sexual Offenses Act: Prohibits commercial sexual exploitation of children and child pornography.

Proceeds of Crime Act: Includes provisions on material that can be seized by law enforcement.

Censorship of Films and Videos Act: Regulates the content of films, videos, and other audiovisual media distributed in Barbados, covering issues such as violence, explicit content, and public order/moral sensibilities.

Copyright Act: Protects the rights of creators of original works, including in the media sector.

Barbados Broadcasting Act: Governs radio and television broadcasting, established the Barbados Broadcasting Authority (BBA) to oversee licensing, content standards, and ethical reporting.

Defamation Act: Provides legal recourse for individuals or organizations defamed through media. Libel and slander are recognized.

Constitution of Barbados: Section 11 guarantees freedom of speech and freedom of the press, which are fundamental rights.