Bahrain Shura Council to discuss proposed social media advertising regulation law

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

The Shura Council will discuss today a report prepared by the Services Committee regarding a proposed law that aims to regulate propaganda and advertising activity through social media platforms in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The proposal was submitted by Shura Council members Talal Mohammed Al Mannaei, Dr. Jihad Abdullah Al Fadhel, Abdulrahman Mohammed Jamsheer, Juma Mohammed Al Kaabi, and Reda Ibrahim Monfaredi.

The objective of the proposed law is to establish a structured and secure environment for advertising and promotional activities on social media, ensuring that clear procedures are in place to safeguard the rights of all parties involved.

It also seeks to introduce official oversight by relevant authorities to protect society and individuals from potential harm caused by unregulated advertising practices.

The proposed law outlines general regulations, while leaving the specific procedures and mechanisms for implementation to be determined by executive decisions.

This approach allows for flexibility and adaptation to changing circumstances and technological advancements.

Supervisory powers

The law stipulates the requirement for obtaining a license prior to engaging in advertising activities, defines the obligations of license holders, sets forth the necessary controls and restrictions on displaying advertising materials, and grants supervisory powers to the Ministry responsible for overseeing the sector.

Under the proposed law, engaging in propaganda and advertising activities through social media without obtaining the required license from the Ministry would be deemed a criminal offense.

Additionally, publishing advertising content that violates the provisions outlined in Article 7 of the proposed law would also be subject to penalties.

These measures are seen as crucial in safeguarding societal stability, protecting fundamental interests, and upholding the rights of individuals.

During the session, the Shura Council will also address inquiries directed to the Minister of Labour regarding the enforcement of labour law provisions in the private sector and the handling of workers’ complaints and job seekers’ concerns.

Additionally, the Minister of Electricity and Water Affairs will respond to a question regarding the feasibility of transitioning to solar energy for electricity generation, as opposed to relying on fossil fuels.