The 15th National Assembly passed the amended Press Law.

With 437 out of 440 participating delegates voting in favor, the 15th National Assembly passed the amended Press Law.

During the working session on the morning of December 10, the 10th session of the 15th National Assembly , delegates voted to pass the Press Law (amended) with 437/440 delegates participating in the meeting in favor.

The bill, consisting of 4 chapters and 51 articles, will officially take effect from July 1, 2026. This is one of 30 draft laws passed by the National Assembly on this important working day, along with 4 resolutions in many different fields.

The National Assembly voted to pass the Press Law (amended). Photo: Doan Tan/VNA.

This revised Press Law is considered a comprehensive adjustment to meet the rapidly changing media landscape, especially the strong development of multi-platform journalism and information activities in the digital environment. The law has added the concept of a leading multi-media press agency, while clarifying the types of press agencies, representative offices, and resident reporters. Clearly defining the position, function, and scope of operation is expected to create a more transparent and consistent legal framework for the press system.

Besides improving the organizational structure, the law also regulates the operating conditions of the press in a stricter and more practical manner. This draft clarifies the licensing procedures, organizational structure, responsibilities of the governing body and the head of the press agency. Financial mechanisms, including support for infrastructure investment and tax incentives, have been added to create a foundation for sustainable development of the press in the context of an increasingly competitive media market.

One point of concern for many media organizations is the regulation regarding press cards. To be granted a card for the first time, applicants must have at least two years of continuous work experience at a media organization and meet requirements regarding professional training and professional ethics. This regulation aims to ensure the quality of the journalistic workforce, enhance professionalism, and establish standards in journalistic work.

The law also updates many new provisions related to the management of information in cyberspace. The added provisions address the correction and removal of false or illegal information; and establish principles for the application of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, in journalistic activities. This is a step in line with the digital transformation trend in journalism and the requirements for managing content on digital platforms.

The National Assembly's approval of the amended Press Law marks a significant milestone in the process of perfecting the legal framework for Vietnamese journalism. The new law is expected to create a legal foundation suitable for the characteristics of modern journalism, while ensuring freedom of the press as stipulated in the Constitution, coupled with the responsibilities, standards, and obligations of media organizations and journalists in the context of widespread digital transformation.

Source: https://nongnghiepmoitruong.vn/quoc-hoi-khoa-xv-thong-qua-luat-bao-chi-sua-doi-d788630.html