Cyber Law at Mali

13 Mar 2025 --
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Cyber Law in Mali

Mali's cyber law framework is evolving, with significant developments in recent years aimed at regulating digital activities, protecting personal data, and addressing cybercrimes.

⚖️ 1. Cybercrime Law (Law No. 2019-056)

Enacted in 2019, this law criminalizes a range of online offenses, including:

Cyberstalking and harassment: Penalties include imprisonment of 6 months to 10 years and fines ranging from CFA 1,000,000 to 10,000,000 (approximately USD 1,680 to 16,800).

Online defamation and threats: Similar penalties apply, though the law lacks clear definitions for terms like "threat" or "insult," leading to concerns about potential misuse to suppress free speech.

Fake news dissemination: Spreading false information online can result in fines of CFA 200,000 to 2,000,000 (USD 332 to 3,318) and imprisonment of 6 months to 1 year.

🛡️ 2. Data Protection Law (Law No. 2013/015)

Mali's data protection framework is governed by Law No. 2013/015, which

Establishes the APDP: The Malian Data Protection Authority (APDP) oversees compliance with data protection regulations

Applies to all data processing:The law covers both public and private entities processing personal data within Mali or under its jurisdiction

Imposes penalties for non-compliance:Violations can lead to fines ranging from CFA 2.5 million to 20 million (approximately USD 4,016 to 32,116)

📡 3. Cryptography Law (Law No. 2016-011)

This law regulates the use of cryptographic methods and services in Mali, including:

Authorization requirements Entities must obtain approval from the government to use cryptographic systems for securing communications and data.

Oversight mechanisms Establishes a framework for monitoring and controlling cryptographic activities to ensure national security and compliance with legal standard.

📺 4. Recent Developments

*Media restrictions: In April 2024, Mali's junta banned all forms of media from reporting on political activities, including television, radio, online, and print newspapers, citing national security concers.

*Data protection enforcement: The APDP has issued warnings to digital actors, including social media users and bloggers, against the unauthorized collection and dissemination of personal data, with penalties ranging from CFA 5 million to 20 million (USD 8,000 to 32,00).

📌 **Summary*

Mali's cyber law landscape is characterizedby:

Legal Area	Key Legislation	Enforcement Authority
Cybercrime	Law No. 2019-056	Judicial Authorities
Data Protection	Law No. 2013/015	APDP
Cryptography	Law No. 2016-011	Ministry of Digital Economy 

While these laws aim to regulate digital activities and protect personal data, concerns have been raised about their potential impact on freedom of expression and privacy. Ongoing dialogue and potential revisions may be necessary to balance regulation with fundamental rights.