Oman has introduced a proposal for unified guidelines to manage social media content across Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, aiming to enhance media coordination and protect regional unity. This initiative was presented by Oman’s Minister of Information, Dr. Abdullah Nasser Al Harrasi, at the 29th meeting of GCC Information Ministers in Manama, Bahrain.
The proposal seeks to establish a common framework for cooperation among the relevant authorities in GCC countries. It focuses on improving the monitoring and documentation of violations, promoting accountability, and supporting appropriate legal action in alignment with each member state’s national legislation. The ministers at the meeting emphasized the necessity of coordinated action to counter misleading, offensive, and harmful content on both traditional media and digital platforms.
Additionally, the ministers encouraged media organizations, journalists, and social media users to verify information, depend on official sources, and refrain from spreading material that could damage relations among the Gulf countries. The discussions also highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation between Gulf media institutions and adapting to the rapid advancements in digital media and artificial intelligence.
The meeting underscored the significance of a unified Gulf media effort in addressing emerging digital challenges, protecting shared interests, and reinforcing ties among GCC member states. The importance of official media in promoting public awareness, disseminating accurate information, and showcasing the region’s development achievements was also emphasized.