The National Independent Authority for Audiovisual Regulation reminded all radio and television channels on Monday of the need for strict adherence to the legal and professional rules governing media content and commercial communication ahead of the holy month of Ramadan.
The authority explained that, acting on its powers to ensure respect for the legislation and regulations in force in the audiovisual field, it reminds all audiovisual communication service institutions of the necessity of strict commitment to the legal and professional rules governing media content and commercial communication to ensure public protection and the preservation of the religious and social values of society.
According to the statement, the authority noted that during some previous Ramadan seasons, a series of violations and breaches were recorded related to the nature of the content presented, the density of advertising breaks, and some marketing practices that did not comply with legal and regulatory provisions. This necessitates strict adherence to the established controls to avoid the recurrence of such practices.
In this context, the authority requires radio and television channels to respect religious and national references and social values, and to avoid broadcasting any content that would harm public morals, the dignity of individuals, stir sensitivities, or promote scenes of violence.
The same body also emphasized the need to exercise editorial responsibility and take into account the specificity of the holy month in preparing content and its broadcast timing.
The authority also recalled the obligation of strict compliance with the regulation of advertising and its practices, and respecting the exceptional maximum limit set during the month of Ramadan for broadcasting advertising messages for all forms of audiovisual commercial communication.
It also required audiovisual communication service members to refrain from broadcasting any advertisements or promotional materials that include misleading information for the consumer, confusion between editorial and advertising material, or the undeclared use of surreptitious advertising. Any breach of these provisions, according to the statement, is considered a clear violation that exposes perpetrators to the legal and regulatory procedures provided for.
On this occasion, the authority called for ensuring the diversity and quality of program content in line with the principles of public service and ensuring the public’s right to responsible and balanced information. It confirmed that it will begin regular and precise monitoring of the extent of commitment to these controls and will take, if necessary, the required legal measures with all strictness.
The authority stressed that this statement serves as an official reminder of the duties and legal obligations of operators, aiming to ensure respect for the provisions of the legislation and regulations in force and to enhance professional media practice during the holy month.
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