Muscat: The Ministry of Information today hosted an introductory meeting at its theater to discuss the Media Law, which was issued by Royal Decree No. (58/2024), along with its executive regulations. The event aimed to shed light on the policy foundations that guided the ministry in formulating this law.

According to Oman News Agency, the policy foundations for the Media Law were drawn from several significant sources, including the Basic Law of the State, Oman Vision 2040, five-year development plans, and prior legislative regulations governing media activities. The meeting emphasized the Basic Law of the State’s provisions regarding the freedom of the press and media.

Moreover, the meeting highlighted the alignment of the Media Law with relevant international human rights conventions. Discussions focused on the relationship between the Media Law and its executive regulations, detailing the stages of preparing the draft executive regulations. This comprehensive process involved the formation of a committee at the Ministry of Information post-issuance of the law, coordination with partners in competent government bodies, and engagement with civil society through a participatory approach in drafting the regulations. The meeting also noted the importance of securing necessary approvals from relevant government bodies.

Additionally, the meeting addressed key provisions of the executive regulations, which include procedures for licensing media activities, identifying the types of activities requiring licenses, and outlining the rights and obligations of media professionals. It also covered regulations concerning publications, artistic works, and associated penalties.