Sharjah: The Sharjah Executive Council (SEC), led by H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Vice Chairman of the Council, has issued a decision to regulate media activities within the emirate. This decision was made during the council's meeting on Tuesday at the Sharjah Ruler's Office.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting was attended by H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Vice Chairman of the SEC. The council discussed general government policies, financial results of the Government of Sharjah, and strategies to enhance these policies in line with the emirate's significant development and growth across various sectors.
The council reviewed the performance report for the general budget, focusing on the outcomes and achievement rates of governmental and independent entities for the second half of 2024. The sectors covered included social development, government administration, infrastructure, capital projects, and economic development. The council expressed its support for these entities in achieving their objectives and improving government operations.
Additionally, the council approved the final account report for 2024, detailing the actual financial results, expenditures, and revenues of government departments and independent entities in Sharjah for the fiscal year 2024, with comparisons to the previous year.
The decision to regulate media activities aims to create a sustainable legal framework for media operations and content in Sharjah. It seeks to enhance media content quality and diversity, reflecting the emirate's cultural identity and values. The decision also aims to foster an attractive investment environment for media professionals and investors and promote innovation in the media sector.
The decision outlines the competencies of the Sharjah Media Council and emphasizes coordination among relevant entities to achieve its goals. It includes legal provisions related to media ownership, media institutions, broadcast and electronic/digital media activities, permits, approvals, and content standards.
Moreover, the council reviewed the 2024 annual report of the Sharjah Social Services Department (SSSD), which highlighted key statistics on beneficiaries of social security, care and protection services, and community outreach. The report detailed social assistance recipients and the supplementary grant for Sharjah retirees, totaling 4,836 beneficiaries, with support exceeding AED119 million. The council was also briefed on the achievements of the department's various centres and divisions.