Acting Minister of Information: A single umbrella law for print, audiovisual, and electronic media
State Minister for Communications and Information Technology and Acting Minister of Information and Culture, Omar Al-Omar, confirmed that the draft law regulating the media sector represents a significant step toward updating Kuwait’s legislative environment for media, establishing a modern, unified framework that keeps pace with the rapid transformations in the media industry and the digital space, while balancing freedom of media practice with professional responsibility and the protection of society.
In a statement on Tuesday, Minister Al-Omar said the project aligns with the state’s direction to modernize its legislation and simplify procedures, as it consolidates under a single legislative umbrella the laws governing print publications, broadcasting, audio-visual media, electronic media, advertising, content production, artistic production, broadcasting services, and other related media activities.
He clarified that the objective of unifying these regulations is to provide a clear and comprehensive legal reference for media professionals and investors, following the major developments the media sector has witnessed in recent years and the emergence of new patterns, platforms, and practices that did not exist when previous laws were enacted.
Al-Omar noted that the project adopts a more flexible licensing approach through a unified electronic platform, linked to relevant authorities, with simplified procedures, extended license validity periods, and streamlined processing of applications, thereby contributing to improving the business environment and encouraging investment in the media and creative sectors.
He added that the project comprehensively regulates, for the first time, content creation and advertising activities on social media platforms, establishing clear rules for disclosing media and advertising content, as well as regulating the use of artificial intelligence technologies in content, thereby enhancing transparency and protecting the public and consumers.
The minister emphasized that media regulation means creating a clear professional environment that safeguards freedom of expression and responsible journalism, while more clearly defining rights and obligations.
He explained that the protection of children, families, and society constitutes a core pillar of the project, through the establishment of controls that protect children’s privacy and prevent their exploitation or abuse, alongside the development of content standards to address emerging practices and risks in the digital environment.
Regarding violations, Al-Omar clarified that the project is based on the principles of gradation and proportionality in penalties. The primary approach is regulatory and administrative handling, starting with warnings and notices, and escalating to financial and administrative penalties depending on the nature, severity, and recurrence of the violation. Criminal penalties are reserved for specific cases as defined by law.
The minister stressed that the project also takes into account the nature of live media work, distributing responsibility according to the actual role of each party. This ensures greater clarity and fairness in determining liability while preserving society’s right to professional and responsible media.
Concluding his remarks, Minister Al-Omar said: “Our ambition is to have modern media legislation that embraces the future rather than hindering it, protects the freedom of responsible media, safeguards the rights of society and consumers, and provides creators and investors with a clear and fair environment to work and grow. Kuwaiti media boasts a distinguished history, and it is our responsibility to provide it with modern legislation befitting this history and aligned with Kuwait’s aspirations for the future.”
He expressed his gratitude and appreciation to all parties involved in preparing the project, including relevant authorities and the Kuwaiti media family, for their efforts, and prayed to God Almighty to protect Kuwait and its people under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir of the State, may God protect and support him.
