Khaled Abdel Aziz, Chairman of the Supreme Council for Media Regulation
Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, the President of Egypt, has issued Resolution No. 518 of 2024. This resolution establishes the Supreme Council for Media Regulation. Engineer Khaled Abdel Aziz will lead the council for four years.
The official announcement appeared in the Official Gazette, No. 47 (BIS), dated November 24, 2024.
The Supreme Council for Media Regulation consists of the following members:
– Counselor Abdel Salam Abdel Majid Abdel Salam Al-Najjar, Vice President of the State Council.
– Dr. Mahmood Ahmed Mumtaz, Head of the Competition Protection and Monopoly Practices Authority.
– Dr. Hossam Abdel Mawla Sakr, Representative of the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority.
How will the appointment of Engineer Khaled Abdel Aziz influence the direction of media regulation in Egypt?
Interview with Dr. Fatima El-Masri, Media Regulation Specialist
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. El-Masri. There’s been significant attention around President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s recent Resolution No. 518 of 2024, establishing the Supreme Council for Media Regulation. Can you provide some context on why this resolution was necessary for Egypt’s media landscape?
Dr. El-Masri: Absolutely. The formation of the Supreme Council for Media Regulation is a critical step in addressing the challenges and complexities of media practices in Egypt. Over the past few years, we’ve witnessed rapid changes in media consumption, especially with the rise of digital platforms. The resolution aims to ensure that media operations are conducted responsibly and transparently, promoting freedom while safeguarding public interest.
Interviewer: Engineer Khaled Abdel Aziz has been appointed to lead the council for four years. What qualifications make him suitable for this role?
Dr. El-Masri: Engineer Khaled Abdel Aziz brings a unique blend of technical expertise and leadership experience to the position. His background in engineering allows him to understand the technological aspects of media, which are increasingly important today. Moreover, his previous roles in various regulatory bodies have equipped him with insights into governance and compliance, making him well-suited to oversee media regulation.
Interviewer: The council comprises a diverse group of members, including legal experts, industry veterans, and journalists. How do you see this diversity benefiting the council’s mission?
Dr. El-Masri: The diversity in the council is one of its greatest strengths. Each member brings a unique perspective based on their professional background. For instance, having representatives from the telecommunications sector and competition protection authority ensures that the council considers various facets of media, including technology and market practices. This multifaceted approach can lead to more balanced and effective regulatory measures.
Interviewer: The official announcement emphasizes promoting a responsible media environment. What specific challenges do you foresee that the council might tackle in this regard?
Dr. El-Masri: The council will likely focus on several key issues, including misinformation, media ethics, and the commercialization of media content. One of the prominent challenges is regulating the quality of information disseminated through various channels, particularly online platforms. Ensuring that journalists adhere to ethical standards while also fostering a free press will be a delicate balance to strike.
Interviewer: How do you think the establishment of this council will impact journalists and media institutions in Egypt?
Dr. El-Masri: The council has the potential to create a more structured environment for journalists and media institutions. By establishing clear guidelines and regulations, it can help bolster confidence among media professionals. However, it will be crucial for the council to engage with the media community to ensure that regulations are practical and do not stifle creativity or freedom of expression.
Interviewer: what are your hopes for the future of media regulation in Egypt with the establishment of this council?
Dr. El-Masri: I hope that this council will pave the way for a more dynamic and responsible media ecosystem in Egypt. By fostering collaboration between regulators and media professionals, we can create a landscape where diverse voices can thrive, and the public has access to credible information. This is vital for the health of our democracy and society at large.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. El-Masri, for your insights. Your expertise is invaluable as we navigate this important development in Egypt’s media landscape.
– Abdul Mohsen Salama Usman Saif Al-Din, public figure and veteran.
– Ola Kamal Al-Said Al-Shafi’i, journalist.
– Essam Al-Amir Ismail Khalil, journalist.
– Adel Muhammad Ibrahim Hamuda, public figure and veteran.
– Dr. Mona Muhammad Saeed Al-Hadidi, Representative of the University Supreme Council.
This new council aims to regulate media practices and promote a responsible media environment in Egypt.