On World Press Freedom Day, New Legislation Further Curtails Press Freedom and Journalistic Activity

World Press Freedom Day is observed globally on the 3rd of May each year, serving as an occasion to reflect on the vital role that the media plays in society, and to acknowledge the challenges journalists face in their pursuit of truth. In many countries, media freedom is regarded as a key indicator of national progress and respect for human rights.

In this context, Oman has come under increasing criticism for violations targeting journalists, pervasive censorship, and restrictions on press freedom.

Oman’s track record concerning freedom of expression and media freedom is particularly concerning. According to the 2025 Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Oman ranked 134th out of 180 countries, signalling a significant deterioration in the state of media and press freedoms in the country.

Moreover, Freedom House classified the Sultanate of Oman as “Not Free” in its 2025 report, awarding the country a total score of only 24 out of 100—comprising 6 out of 40 for political rights and 18 out of 60 for civil liberties. The report highlighted Oman’s particularly poor performance in civil liberties, attributing this to stringent restrictions on freedom of expression, the right to peaceful assembly, and freedom of association.

On 10 November 2024, Sultan Haitham bin Tarik issued Royal Decree No. 58/2024 concerning the new Media Law. Although this long-awaited legislation began, in Article 3, by repealing several outdated and controversial laws—such as the Press and Publications Law—that no longer align with contemporary needs, it introduced new provisions that have sparked even greater debate. Among these are punitive measures targeting journalists and media professionals, including imprisonment and financial penalties. The law also addresses the regulation of social media platforms in a manner that could expose content creators on platforms such as YouTube and podcast channels to legal accountability.

In December 2020, in a move described by the OCHRD as a hindrance to media work and development, the Minister of Information amended the Press and Publications Law to extend its provisions to digital and electronic media, thereby subjecting them to the same constraints as traditional media. It is worth noting that, although Oman’s Basic Law guarantees freedom of the press in principle, various national laws continue to impose restrictions that limit this freedom and reinforce a climate of self-censorship among journalists and media practitioners.

Furthermore, Oman’s failure to sign the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights has sparked controversy regarding its commitment to upholding international standards of human rights, including freedom of opinion and expression, as well as civil and political rights, of which journalism and media are integral components.

The Omani Penal Code contains several provisions that restrict press freedom and the flow of information. For instance, Article 115 stipulates imprisonment for up to 3 years for anyone who intentionally instigates, broadcasts, or publishes false or malicious news, statements, or rumors, or disseminates provocative advertisements, with the aim of undermining the state’s authority or weakening confidence in its financial or economic status. This provision has been used to shut down independent newspapers, such as Al-Zaman in 2016, after it published reports on administrative corruption in the Ministry of Justice, and recently to target individuals speaking out against government policies on social media platforms.

Furthermore, Article 249 of the same law prohibits the publication of news related to an ongoing investigation or relevant document without permission from the public prosecutor’s office or the competent court, with penalties of up to two years in prison and fines. This provision has been used to target journalists writing about corruption or other sensitive issues.

In March 2022, journalist Mukhtar Al-Hinai was charged under Article 249 after tweeting about a case of financial and administrative corruption in a government ministry. Despite the case concluding in July 2022 with the court’s acquittal, he remains suspended from work due to the pressures exerted on him.

Additionally, journalist Fatma Al-Arimi announced in March 2023 the suspension of her news platform “WAF” without specifying reasons. It’s worth noting that the Omani Ministry of Information had revoked Reuters’ representation license for Al-Arimi in January 2017.

Furthermore, radio station Hala FM and Omani citizen “Um Ruqaiya” were investigated after Um Ruqaiya appeared in a radio episode showcasing vandalism and neglect in a government school in Al-Amrat, Muscat Governorate. The case remains ongoing.

Moreover, journalist and presenter of the Hala FM channel, Khulood Al-Awli, was suspended by the Omani Ministry of Information in December 2021 along with her program “All Questions” before the ministry reversed its decision, as stated by the Omani Journalists Association on December 29, 2021.

The Cybercrime Law in Oman also poses a threat to press freedom, as Article 19 stipulates penalties of imprisonment and fines for anyone using information networks or information technology means to produce, publish, distribute, purchase, or possess anything that could undermine religious values or public order. This provision has been used to target social media activists and individuals active in politics or religious freedom.

Moreover, restrictions on freedom of expression represent one of the greatest challenges to press freedom, transparency, and neutrality. For instance, Article 97 of the Penal Code imposes imprisonment for up to 7 years for anyone who criticizes the Sultan, his family, or his authority. This provision has been used to silence opposition and punish individuals who dare to express their opinions.

The OCHRD regards Oman’s restrictive approach towards press freedom and media oversight as cause for concern. The Press and Publications Law, which needs to be updated and keep pace with technological advancements and social media platforms, imposes stringent control over journalists and media outlets. Additionally, restrictions on freedom of expression, whether in the Omani Penal Code or the Cybercrime Law, and the criminalization of criticism against the Sultan and his family, indicate a lack of tolerance towards opposing views to prevailing laws or official directives, disregarding the principles of press freedom and expression.

It is imperative for Oman to take steps to reform its laws and practices concerning media freedom and expression in line with international human rights standards, to enhance transparency, accountability, and a vibrant media landscape that serves the people. The legislature in Oman must ensure that journalists and media professionals can carry out their work without fear of censorship, harassment, or imprisonment.