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| Arabia |
| Arab ministers adopt satellite TV rules |
| 2008-02-15 |
| Arab governments have adopted new rules meant to rein in satellite television talk shows that have become forums for rollicking criticisms of Arab regimes and discussions of taboo topics. The "Charter of Principles" approved this week by Arab information ministers is being viewed by the region's media circles as a concerted move to muzzle stations. The charter prohibits criticism of Arab leaders and religious figures, warning in vague terms of the harm to social peace, national unity and public morals. It demands "adherence to objectivity, sincerity and respect to the dignity of the countries, nations and their national sovereignty." The new rules allow countries to suspend, terminate or refuse to renew the licenses of TV network offices that violate them. Qatar, whose government funds the popular station Al-Jazeera, was the only nation of the 21 Arab states not to sign the charter. ... |
| Posted by:ed |