The Media, Tourism, and Culture Committee is set to welcome a group of representatives from local media organizations.
14 فبراير 2024
This Wednesday morning, the Media, Tourism, and Culture Committee of the Shura Council hosted a number of representatives from radio, television, and digital channels, as well as the editors-in-chief of local newspapers. The meeting aimed to seek their opinions and observations regarding the draft media law submitted by the government to the Council. This gathering reflects the Councils commitment to involve the community and its institutions in reviewing proposed laws.
The meeting underscored the significance of the proposed law amidst rapid changes in modern technologies and artificial intelligence. The existing Printing and Publishing Law in the Sultanate of Oman dates back to 1984, with only minor amendments made since then. The importance of the new law providing greater space for responsible freedom of expression in addressing local issues was emphasized, along with its ability to keep pace with future developments in the media field across various platforms.
The discussion also covered the alignment of the draft law with the states fundamental system and the prevailing media laws. The new law was formulated in light of Article 35 of the fundamental system, ensuring freedom of opinion and expression through speech, writing and all means of expression within the bounds of the law. Additionally, Article 37 guarantees freedom of the press, printing and publishing according to conditions and circumstances specified by the law, while prohibiting actions leading to sedition, hatred, harm to state security or violation of human dignity and rights.
It is worth noting that the draft law was prepared based on the changes in media activities and the rapid developments resulting from the diverse methods of practicing media activities, considering the extended period since the issuance of laws governing media activities.