Saudi Arabia: Opened consultation on Saudi Arabia Media Law including content moderation authority governance

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 authority governance. 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. Media outlets are obliged to cooperate with inspections, adhere to professional standards, and comply with regulatory and emergency protocols. The Authority can issue a number of penalties for violations, including warnings, fines of up to SAR 10 million, a media ban, license suspension or cancellation, and blocking. The Authority may also order the withdrawal of content. The Ministry issues the necessary procedural guidelines to enforce these regulations, which replace prior media regulations.