The Egyptian Ministry of State for Information, in conjunction with editors-in-chief of licensed digital news outlets, has unanimously approved a ban on photographing citizen funerals and condolence gatherings. This decision was made during a meeting chaired by Diaa Rashwan, Minister of State for Information, at the ministry's headquarters in Cairo on September 21. The move aims to regulate the conduct of digital news platforms and ensure respect for citizens' private gatherings.
Editors-in-chief of digital news outlets agreed to hold colleagues accountable for any violations of the ban, including the publication of photographs on personal social media accounts. This measure is intended to prevent the exploitation of sensitive moments for the sake of news coverage. The joint resolution reflects a collaborative effort between the Ministry of State for Information and digital news outlets to establish guidelines for responsible journalism.
During the meeting, Minister Rashwan urged digital news platforms to establish a unified representative body that can discuss common concerns and speak with a single voice. He suggested that this entity could operate similarly to the Chamber of Cinema Industry, which was established in 1947. The proposed body aims to provide a structured framework for digital journalism in Egypt.
Editors participating in the meeting highlighted several operational challenges facing digital journalism in Egypt. These challenges include a lack of information from state ministries and official spokespersons' failure to respond to press inquiries. As a result, outlets often rely on unverified sources, making it difficult to combat the spread of false news on social media platforms.
Minister Rashwan emphasized that the state is working to expedite a freedom of information law to ensure citizens' access to facts and official data. He also stated that the Ministry will take legal action against social media users who violate individuals' constitutional rights, including invading personal privacy and spreading harmful rumors.
The meeting was the seventh in a series of discussions held by Rashwan with various media entities, including the Supreme Council for Media Regulation, the National Press Authority, and the National Media Authority. These discussions aim to address challenges facing the Egyptian press ahead of the first national media conference directed by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, scheduled for December.
The national media conference, set to take place in December, will bring together various media stakeholders to discuss pressing issues and potential solutions. The conference is expected to provide a platform for media professionals to engage with policymakers and address the challenges facing the Egyptian media landscape.
Key points
- Egypt's Ministry of State for Information and digital news outlets have banned photography at citizen funerals and condolence gatherings.
- The ban aims to regulate digital journalism and ensure respect for citizens' private gatherings.
- A unified representative body for digital news platforms is proposed to discuss common concerns and establish guidelines for responsible journalism.
