In a move aimed at bolstering institutional cooperation and unifying perspectives on various issues of common interest, the Supreme Council for Media Regulation in Egypt hosted a delegation from the National Human Rights Council. The meeting, led by Khaled Abdel Aziz, head of the Supreme Council, and Ambassador Dr. Ahmed Ihab Jamal El-Din, head of the National Human Rights Council, sought to explore ways to develop cooperation and coordination between the two bodies on matters within their constitutional and legal mandates.
Both parties expressed mutual appreciation for the national role each council plays in its respective domain, emphasizing their responsibilities in upholding constitutional principles and laws, protecting rights and freedoms, and supporting state institutions. They stressed the importance of integrating their efforts, enhancing communication channels, and exchanging expertise and insights to benefit from the intersection of their mandates on several issues. This cooperation aims to support freedom of opinion and expression, consolidate professional and responsible media practices, and serve the public interest.
The meeting covered a range of topics of mutual interest, including the status of electronic websites seeking to regularize their situations. The discussion also touched on other subjects linked to the competencies and concerns of both councils. This reflects the parties' keenness to address these files through a shared vision that balances media work freedom with adherence to constitutional, legal, and professional controls.
The Supreme Council for Media Regulation and the National Human Rights Council agreed to form a joint working group. This group will be tasked with consulting and coordinating on files and issues that intersect with the constitutional and legal mandates of both councils. The goal is to enhance institutional cooperation, contribute to shaping joint visions and recommendations, and open broader avenues for collaboration in the coming period.
Participants in the meeting from the Supreme Council for Media Regulation included Essam El Amir, the council's deputy, and Yaser El Maabad, the general secretary. From the National Human Rights Council, attendees included Mohamed Anwar El Sadat, deputy head of the council; Dr. Ayman Abdel Wahab, head of the Civil and Political Rights Committee; Vivian Morad, head of the Complaints Committee; Ezzat Ibrahim, head of the Media Committee; Mohamed Othman, a member of the Media Committee; and Dr. Islam Reihan, from the council's technical secretariat.
The collaboration between the two councils is expected to foster a more cohesive approach to media regulation and human rights in Egypt. By working together, they aim to address challenges and develop strategies that promote a free and responsible media environment. This partnership underscores the Egyptian government's commitment to enhancing institutional cooperation and upholding human rights and media freedoms.
The joint effort between the Supreme Council for Media Regulation and the National Human Rights Council represents a significant step towards achieving a balanced and professional media landscape in Egypt. It highlights the government's dedication to ensuring that media operations are conducted within a framework that respects both freedom of expression and the rights of citizens.
Key points
- The meeting between the Supreme Council for Media Regulation and the National Human Rights Council aims to enhance cooperation on media regulation and human rights issues in Egypt.
