Saudi Arabias Ministry of Culture is considering shutting down several satellite TV channels that broadcast programmes deemed hostile to the government and people of the Kingdom, a ministry source has revealed according to Arab News. The Ministry said neighbouring states from which such channels are broadcast must bear the responsibility of limiting their activities. The […]
Saudi Arabias Ministry of Culture is considering shutting down several satellite TV channels that broadcast programmes deemed hostile to the government and people of the Kingdom, a ministry source has revealed according to Arab News.
The Ministry said neighbouring states from which such channels are broadcast must bear the responsibility of limiting their activities. The Kingdom will take action against these channels if the governments of these countries fail to rein them in.
This comes soon after former Saudi Minister of Information, Abdel Aziz Khoja ordered the closure of Wesal TV in Riyadh. The channel was accused of promoting sectarian violence.
A source from the Ministry confirmed that action was taken against Wesal TV to prohibit the broadcasting of its programmes in Saudi Arabia, stressing the Ministry will not tolerate any channel promoting such hostility in society.
According to Saudi media regulations, a licence can be cancelled or rescinded by the licensing authorities for programmes considered unacceptable due various reasons including to cultural or religious insensitivity.
The General Authority for Audio and Visual Media is responsible for monitoring programmes and ensuring they are in compliance with media policies of the Kingdom.
