The New Media Law.. 'Professionalism and Responsibility'! - Sarmad
The Minister of State for Communications and Information Technology Affairs, and Acting Minister of Media and Culture, Omar Al-Omar, affirmed that the draft law regulating the media sector represents a crucial step toward updating Kuwait’s media legislative framework and establishing a modern, unified system that keeps pace with the rapid transformations in the media industry and the digital space, while balancing freedom of media work with professional responsibility and the protection of society.
Speaking to KUNA on Tuesday, Minister Al-Omar stated that the project aligns with the state’s direction to modernize its legislation and simplify procedures. It consolidates under a single legislative umbrella the laws governing print and publishing, audio-visual and broadcast media, and electronic media, alongside regulating advertising, content creation, artistic production, broadcasting services, and other related media activities.
He clarified that the objective of unifying these regulations is to establish a clear and comprehensive legal reference for media professionals and investors, following significant developments in the media landscape over recent years and the emergence of new models, 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, streamlining procedures, license durations, and application processing. This aims to improve the business environment and encourage investment in the media and creative sectors.
He added that the project comprehensively regulates, for the first time, the activities of content creators and advertisers on social media platforms. It establishes clear rules for disclosing media and advertising content and regulates 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 defining rights and obligations with greater clarity.
He highlighted that the protection of children, families, and society is a central pillar of the project, implemented through controls that safeguard children’s privacy and prevent their exploitation or abuse. Additionally, it develops content standards to address emerging practices and risks in the digital environment.
Regarding violations, Al-Omar explained that the project is based on the principles of gradation and proportionality in penalties. The primary approach involves regulatory and administrative remedies, ranging from warnings and notices to financial and administrative sanctions, depending on the nature, severity, and recurrence of the violation. Criminal penalties are reserved strictly for cases specified by law.
The minister stressed that the project also considers the nature of live media work, distributing responsibility according to the actual role of each party. This ensures greater clarity and fairness in assigning 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; it is our responsibility to provide it with modern legislation befitting this heritage and aligned with Kuwait’s aspirations for the future.”
He expressed his gratitude and appreciation to all parties involved in preparing the project, as well as to the Kuwaiti media family for their efforts, praying to God Almighty to protect Kuwait and its people under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir of Kuwait.
