The new Media Law, issued by the Royal Decree 58/2024, was certainly a need of the hour, especially in today's era of unfiltered information from myriad sources.
The law has considered the evolution of journalism over the past two decades by repealing the Publications and Publishing Law, the Law on the Censorship of Artistic Works, and the Law on Private Radio and Television Establishments, which were limited to regulate the media platforms prevalent at the time.
While making it clear that the Ministry of Information (MoI) may not grant a license to carry out any media activity based on religion, sect, denomination, ethnic or class discrimination, or an activity hostile to the principles and values upon which Omani society, it also lays focus on the freedom of the media by guaranteeing the right of natural and legal persons to practice media activities and prohibiting prior censorship on the practice of media activities.
As stated by Dr Abdullah bin Nasser al Harrasi, Minister of Information, the new law has been rightly aligned with Oman Vision 2040 by responding to changes and advancements in media and the impact of modern digital technologies.
He also mentioned that the law reinforces the mission of Oman’s media by upholding principles of objectivity, accuracy, full neutrality, and freedom of opinion and expression, under the country’s foundational laws and with a strong emphasis on the values of citizenship and national pride.
Various articles in the law have candidly assured that journalists’ professional rights are protected, especially if they are subject to assaults or pressured to reveal their sources.
It ensures a safe environment for media work and prevents restrictions on the press and media while at the same time, it seeks to prevent the spread of misinformation and rumours that could harm the country's reputation and cause harm to society with inappropriate content that can be an incitement to hatred and violence.
The law seeks to promote transparency as a tool to combat rumours by providing information to the public and by developing an informed media culture.
To restrict the flow of misinformation from unauthorised sources, the law requires a media person would require a licence to practice the following activities, which include advertising and publicity, consultations, rebroadcasting or recirculation of any activity, new agencies (including visual), media websites and news accounts, and media activity inside the country.
The minister in his statement affirmed that the law reflects His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s commitment to empowering Oman’s media and journalists to fulfil their essential and constructive role in the Sultanate of Oman.
The law clearly defines the legal framework for all media platforms, such as print, visual, audio, or electronic, and ensures the quality of media production by encouraging media professionals to adhere to professional ethical standards. The focus is also rightly on promoting sustainable development and raising community awareness of important issues.
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