Journalism rights and duties in Egyptian law

• The lecture covers journalists' rights and duties.
• Media law no. 180 for the year 2018 covers the rights and duties of journalists and media professionals.

Egyptian Constitution Articles:

• Article No. 211 establishes the Supreme Council for Media Regulation.
• Article No. 212 establishes the National Press Authority.
• Article No. 213 establishes the National Media Authority.

Rights of Journalists

• Journalists are independent in their work and subject only to the law.
• Independence in performing their work is essential while adhering to the law.
• A journalist should not be questioned for expressing opinions or providing correct information.
• Journalists are protected from being forced to reveal their sources of information.
• Journalists have the right to publish information, data, and news as long as it's not legally prohibited.
• Governmental and public bodies must have departments, offices, or websites for press communication.
• Journalists can seek answers for information unless it is confidential.
• Journalists are allowed to attend conferences, sessions, and public meetings.
• Journalists can conduct interviews, film, and take photos in public places where filming is not restricted.
• Necessary permits must be obtained for filming and photography.
• Journalists have the right to insurance against disability and unemployment.
• Newspaper institutions must cooperate with the journalists' syndicate to create funds for this.
• Journalists cannot be forced to do work against the newspaper's editorial policy if it's in their contract.
• If a policy radically changes, a journalist can terminate their contract by notifying three months in advance.
• The journalist's employment contract must include job type, location, salary, promotions, and benefits.
• The journalist's syndicate must approve the employment contract.
• Journalists cannot be dismissed without investigation and notification to their syndicate.
• The syndicate has 30 days to reconcile the journalist with their employer.
• Journalists in media crimes are guaranteed full rights and freedom unless crimes incite violence, discrimination, or defamation.
• Press institutions must set a minimum wage for journalists.

Duties of Journalists

• Journalists' professional performance must align with the constitution, law, journalistic code, editorial policy, and ethics.
• Performance must not violate citizens' rights or freedoms.
• Failing to fulfill duties can lead to accountability before the journalist's syndicate.
• Journalists are not allowed to cover investigations or trials in ways that affect those being investigated or the courts.
• Newspapers, mass media, or websites must not publish false news or content that incites law violation, violence, hatred, racism, intolerance, defamation, or insults.
• Personal websites, blogs, or social media accounts with 5,000+ followers must follow the guidelines mentioned above.
• Editors-in-chief or managers must publish corrections for free within three days upon request.
• Corrections should be in all editions and limited to the incorrect information.
• Journalists cannot accept donations, subsidies, or special benefits from any entity.
• Journalists cannot bring advertisements or obtain benefits by publishing them.
• Journalists are restricted from signing names on advertising material or participating in paid ads.
• Violations may result in disciplinary action.
• Separating editorial and advertising content is important.
• Publishing matters related to the private life of citizens working in public services is prohibited.
• Information can be broadcasted if it is beneficial to the public interest.