Responsible social media enhances stability

MUSCAT: Experts say that honesty, objectivity, truthfulness, sense of responsibility and conscious engagement with societal issues through media outlets and social media platforms are key principles for handling social media platforms.
His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s emphasis, during his meeting with the chairman and members of the State Council Bureau, on the importance of dealing with societal issues and existing challenges, and conveying accurate and appropriate messages on social media. This, His Majesty said, represents a firm approach to promoting effective communication, enhancing transparency and clarifying the efforts exerted and the achievements and gains made at the national level.
Specialists and stakeholders emphasised that upholding these principles when addressing issues raised in the media and on social media platforms is of paramount importance given the diverse and often irresponsible nature of cyberspace.
Dr Sabra bint Saif al Harasiyah, an academic and educational researcher, stated that engaging with mainstream media and social media platforms is no longer an isolated, individual matter. The impact of words in today's world may impact social harmony and reshape collective consciousness. Every digital interaction, no matter how minor, contributes to the algorithms of dissemination and participates, whether consciously or unconsciously, in amplifying the impact of content within society.
She added that the media content does not exist in a vacuum but rather within a social and cultural environment influenced by a multitude of posts and other contents. Therefore, addressing this issue becomes a collective responsibility, because repeated individual behaviour transforms into a phenomenon which may change the contours of public discourse.
She emphasised that the Omani society is known for its balanced discourse and respect for different opinions. This balance is reflected in the measured use of language and the skilful management of disagreements, in contrast to the harshness and polarisation prevalent in some digital spaces. This balance is not based on suppressing opinions or avoiding discussion, but rather on managing differences wisely.
Rashid bin Abdullah al Shaithani, a public opinion researcher, stated that responsible communication fosters trust, reduces the gap between the government and society and limits the spread of misinformation and inaccurate news among members of society. This, in turn, strengthens communication, social cohesion, and stability, raises the level of public awareness, establishes a culture of dialogue and respect for differing opinions, and contributes to enhancing national unity and social stability.
He explained that the government institutions in the Sultanate of Oman have adopted a philosophy of community participation in decision-making through dialogues, enhancing government communication with the community and organising forums and this helped in planning and making decisions.
Hamoud bin Abdullah al Mukhaini, a lawyer, said: “The Basic Law of the State is the constitutional framework for freedom of expression in the Sultanate of Oman. Article (35) stipulates that freedom of opinion and expression is guaranteed, but it explicitly restricts it with the phrase ‘within the limits of the law.’ This phrase reflects the legislator’s philosophy of establishing freedom of expression coupled with responsibility and restricted by law. It should be noted that this restriction does not empty freedom of its content, but rather sets controls that protect public order and state security, the dignity and rights of individuals and preserve the sanctity of private life.”
He noted that digital media platforms, such as news accounts, are supposed to be licensed by the Ministry of Information, and therefore, in carrying out their activities, they are subject to the Media Law issued by Royal Decree No 58/2024. In principle, they are subject to the general restrictions on content, especially that which leads to misinformation, or the publication of what is officially prohibited, or that violates public morals, according to Article (4) of the Media Law. — ONA