The Minister of Information affirmed that the media landscape, with its rapid developments, cannot be a breeding ground for chaos or a platform for false populism seeking short-term gains at the expense of truth and credibility. This statement comes at a time when the media sector is undergoing radical transformations both locally and globally, necessitating a serious effort to solidify the principles of professional and ethical responsibility.
The context of media transformation and the challenges of the digital age
The world today is experiencing a massive communications revolution that has removed geographical barriers, but it has also brought with it significant challenges, namely the influx of unverified information and the spread of misinformation. In this context, the Ministry of Media's pronouncements draw a clear line between responsible freedom of expression and the chaos that could harm social harmony. Historically, Saudi media has been a cornerstone in defending the nation's interests, and with the advent of social media, the urgent need has arisen to develop legislation and professional ethics to ensure that these platforms are not exploited to spread rumors or incite discord that does not serve the public interest.
Media as a key pillar in Vision 2030
This approach is inextricably linked to the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which prioritizes the media sector as a strategic tool for soft power and a mirror reflecting the unprecedented developmental progress the Kingdom is witnessing. The Vision aims to build a sophisticated and competitive media system based on transparency and good governance, contributing to an improved quality of life. Therefore, combating false populism in the media is not merely a regulatory measure, but a strategic imperative to ensure that the true image of national achievements reaches the world, free from distortion or unwarranted exaggeration.
Expected impact: Towards a professional media environment
Adherence to professional standards in the media space has wide-ranging positive effects:
- Locally: It enhances the community's trust in official and reliable sources of information, and protects the social fabric from the disintegration that malicious rumors may cause.
- Regionally and internationally: It consolidates the Kingdom’s position as a leading media center in the Middle East, capable of exporting sound and influential content that counters media campaigns with documented facts and figures.
In conclusion, observers stress that the Minister of Information’s call represents a roadmap for media practitioners and those interested in media affairs, emphasizing that the future belongs to media that respects the mind of the recipient and builds bridges of trust and credibility, far from the noise of chaos and the search for false fame.
