Amended Press Law: Towards Official Recognition of Digital Journalism

The draft revised Press Law is currently being discussed in the National Assembly, with significant changes aimed at creating a suitable legal framework for journalistic activities in the digital age. The main goal is to fill legal gaps, help media organizations effectively undergo digital transformation, and increase their competitiveness with cross-border platforms.

Key changes in the draft

The most notable point in the draft is the inclusion, for the first time, of online content channels of news agencies into the definition of "journalism." Specifically, according to Articles 2 and 30, channels on platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok will be recognized as part of official journalistic activities.

This means that online journalistic products are considered a legitimate distribution channel, with value equal to traditional print, radio, and television media. The draft also clarifies the State's responsibility to invest in digital tools, supervise and support media organizations operating on the Internet, and promote the development of national digital platforms for journalism.

Creating a transparent and competitive development environment.

The amended law is expected to create a more transparent and stable operating environment. Media outlets will be required to connect online with the state's management system. Simultaneously, the law will also facilitate media outlets in protecting digital content copyrights through technical and legal measures.

Regulations regarding responsibility and content control, along with mechanisms for correcting, removing misinformation, and archiving, have also been clarified. This not only helps to stabilize the digital environment but also strengthens reader trust and enhances the brand value of media organizations.

Shaping the future of Vietnamese journalism.

During discussions in the National Assembly, many delegates emphasized that the amendment to the law was not aimed at tightening control but rather at creating a sound legal framework to help the press develop professionally and modernly. This is an opportunity for newsrooms to restructure their operations, centrally manage digital content channels, and prepare for new journalistic models, applying data and artificial intelligence.

The draft revised Press Law is expected to be voted on and passed by the National Assembly in the near future. These changes are seen as a necessary step for Vietnamese journalism to develop steadily, meet the new standards of the digital age, and effectively fulfill its information mission in the new context.