Government aims to create an enabling environment for media growth — Shboul

AMMAN — Minister of Government Communications Faisal Shboul on Saturday shed light on the challenges faced by media outlets worldwide due to the influence of social media platforms in the advertising market.

“We are living in two distinct worlds: the physical realm and the virtual sphere. As a result, a legal foundation has emerged globally to equate virtual actions with conventional crimes,” Shboul said during a seminar  organised by the Masarat Centre for Development and Empowerment. 

Speaking about the Ministry of Government Communications, Shboul said that the ministry aims to create an enabling environment for media growth and advancement through the draft of the General Policy for Media and Government Communications. 

Shboul outlined the key aspects of the draft policy, highlighting the importance of fostering effective communication channels and building confidence between the government, the public and the media. 

Furthermore, he emphasised the ministry's commitment to empowering media spokespersons and professionals by ensuring a continuous flow of information. To that end, comprehensive training programmes have been launched for media spokespersons representing ministries and government communication personnel. 

Shboul also highlighted the ministry's efforts to support fresh graduates in journalism and media sectors. Collaborating with civil society institutions, the ministry designed training projects that provide practical experience, leading to employment opportunities in sectors such as healthcare and tourism, he said.

In response to questions from the attendees, Shboul said that the Royal Committee to Modernise Political System had recommended a review of the laws concerning publications, publishing and electronic crimes. 

He emphasised that the ministry is responsible for examining media legislation, while acknowledging that criminal law does not directly govern media affairs. 

Regarding the issue of gag orders, Shboul said that such decisions are solely issued by the judiciary based on the progress of investigations. He affirmed that the government, as represented by its institutions, has not made any decision to impose gag orders on any issues.