Qatar is on the verge of issuing a new media law that will give more freedom to the press by curbing censorship, banning jail of journalists and restricting the suspension of newspapers to court, according to press reports.The Ministry of Culture has drafted the new law which is to be approved by the cabinet and endorsed by the country's Emir, Sharq daily said.The paper published what it said were excerpts of the new law, which will give greater freedom to the press unless in cases which threaten national security.
"The new law frees the media sector from any censorship to encourage the principle of freedom of press in handling issues as long as such issues do not threaten the country's security," the paper said.
"Under the new law, there will be no suspension of newspapers and other media organs unless there is a court order...journalists will not be jugged and will have the right to disclose their sources only in court."The paper said the law calls for the formation of a journalists committee and sets new terms for the appointment of editors in chief and other media staff.Applicants seeking to set up a new media project must hold the Qatari citizenship and must not be below 21 years old.The paper said the new law is not applicable to government-run media institutions and authorizes the Ministry of Culture to issue licences for all press establishments except online papers and websites."The new law bans all journalists from accepting donations, grants and other financial facilities," the paper said.