AMMAN — The Kingdom is advancing efforts to regulate its rapidly growing digital media sector, as the Media Commission has referred the draft Digital Media Regulation By-law to the Legislation and Opinion Bureau for public consultation, ahead of completing formal procedures for its issuance, Media Commission’s Director General Bashir Momani said on Tuesday.

 

During the weekly Government Communication Forum, Momani said that the move reflects the government’s aim to balance professional standards, freedom of expression, and investment opportunities in the digital media landscape.

 

Momani said the draft by-law “aims to organise the digital media environment through a balanced legislative approach that supports professionalism without infringing on freedoms.” He added that the regulation does not apply to personal social media accounts or individual content shared online.

 

Momani noted that licensing requirements will only apply to content creators engaged in organised media activities, such as advertising, publicity, and media production. Creators not subject to mandatory licensing may seek voluntary accreditation from the Commission for a service fee, he added.

 

Momani also stressed that digital tools and platforms affiliated with media institutions licensed prior to the new regulation’s entry into force will not require additional licences, noting that institutions may choose to accredit their digital platforms with the Commission, provided that online content is consistent with their licensed print, television, or radio output.

 

“The draft by-law also establishes a legislative framework governing the ethical use of artificial intelligence in media work, ensuring responsible use while safeguarding professional standards."

 

He added that the draft regulation was developed following extensive consultations with government bodies, relevant sectors, and civil society organisations, reflecting a participatory approach aimed at balancing regulation, media development, and investment.

 

Ministry of Government Communication Secretary General Zaid Nwaiseh highlighted proposed frameworks to organise the digital media sector and enhance Jordan’s regional and international media standing.

 

“The Council of Ministers has approved the justifications for the draft by-law, along with related amended regulations, as part of a broader initiative to create an integrated legislative framework governing digital media,” Nwaiseh said.

 

He added that the regulation aims to keep pace with ongoing transformations in the media sector and provide clearer legal foundations for its operations.