The government is responsible for protecting citizens whose rights are affected by media content, according to Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayathissa.
Speaking at a certificate awarding ceremony for graduates of the 10th “Diploma in Media Studies and Journalism” program conducted by the Sri Lanka Press Council, Jayathissa said new laws are being drafted to safeguard citizens from the impact of content spread through social and other digital media.
“The focus now must also be on protecting citizens whose rights are harmed by media,” he said. “It is the state’s duty to shield them from the resulting harm and ensure appropriate legislation is in place.”
The event was held Friday morning at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall. To date, 315 individuals have completed the one-year diploma program.
Pathirana said the media landscape has changed significantly since the Sri Lanka Press Council introduced a media code of ethics in 1981. He noted that many media institutions today do not give adequate attention to correcting false or misleading reports, despite the public damage they may cause.
He also said the transformation the media sector is undergoing is not solely the responsibility of the government or institutions, but of all citizens, who must act with awareness and accountability. (Islandnews)
