Saudi Arabia: Opened consultation on Saudi Arabia Media Law including content moderation regulation

On 5 November 2023, the General Authority of Media Regulation (GAMR) initiated a public consultation until 5 December 2023 on the proposed Media Law, which includes provisions pertaining to content moderation. The stipulations outlined in this law are applicable to individuals engaged in media activities, media channels, digital content platforms, and their users. Additionally, the law pertains to individuals working in the media field within the Kingdom and related entities. The General Authority for Media Regulation exercises regulatory control over media content produced, published, displayed, or broadcast via media channels accessible within the Kingdom. All media content must respect Islamic law principles, avoid any criticism of national leaders, and refrain from inciting violence, promoting drugs, or disturbing public order. Furthermore, content should not cause harm to the national economy, damage international relations, or infringe upon the personal privacy and dignity of individuals. Media outlets are obliged to remove prohibited content, formulate and enforce their own content policies, and prioritise local content.