Egyptian Minister of State for Information, Diaa Rashwan, has underscored the vital role of digital press and online news websites in the nation's media ecosystem. In a meeting with editors-in-chief of licensed online news sites, Rashwan emphasized that these platforms are essential components of Egypt's media landscape, playing a significant part in disseminating news, images, and other media content to citizens.
Rashwan discussed the upcoming First Egyptian Media Conference, directed by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to take place in December. The conference aims to explore ways to develop Egypt's media sector, in line with the president's directives to foster an open media dialogue that includes diverse perspectives. The minister outlined the responsibilities of his ministry, as per the prime minister's decree, focusing on coordination among media entities and between them and state agencies.
The minister presented his ministry's plan to provide accurate and timely information from official bodies to media outlets. He urged digital news site managers to adhere to professional journalism standards, prioritizing accuracy and authenticity over speed. Rashwan noted that this was his seventh meeting with various media stakeholders, including heads of media councils, press and media unions, and TV channel directors.
Participants in the meeting praised the re-establishment of the Ministry of State for Information as a unifying entity for all media components. They acknowledged the ministry's efforts in facilitating communication and coordination among media stakeholders and government agencies. Editors-in-chief of digital news sites raised concerns about challenges facing online journalism, including limited access to information from state agencies and the need for a unified media regulatory framework.
The participants discussed issues faced by journalists working in online media, such as difficulties in accessing information and the negative impact of social media on societal values. They called for state intervention to curb the spread of misinformation and protect individual and societal privacy. Rashwan responded by highlighting the government's efforts to draft a freedom of information law and regulate social media platforms.
Rashwan encouraged online news sites to establish a collective organization to address their institutional challenges. He cited the example of Egypt's Cinema Chamber, established in 1947. The meeting concluded with a decision to ban media coverage of funerals and condolences, in respect for Egyptian families and societal values.
The ban aims to promote responsible media practices and protect individuals' privacy. Key stakeholders, including media professionals and government officials, are expected to collaborate in implementing these measures. The initiative seeks to enhance the professionalism and credibility of Egypt's media landscape.
Key points
- Digital press plays a crucial role in Egypt's media ecosystem.
- The Egyptian government is working to regulate social media platforms.
- A collective organization for online news sites is proposed to address institutional challenges.
