Fines of up to LE 200,000 for broadcasting foul language

CAIRO – 12 June 2017: The Supreme Media Council approved a new bill on Wednesday to curb the use of foul and inappropriate language by the country’s media outlets. The new law imposes a LE 200,000 ($11,031) fine on TV channels and LE 100,000 ($5,515) fine on radio stations in the case of broadcasting offensive words on air.

The council stated that if the fine is not paid immediately it will suspend the screen license of the offending broadcasting agency. This will be extended to six months if the law is breached three times or more and agencies will be required to apply for a new license if they wish to return to active broadcasting.

The Supreme Media Council announced in a press statement that these fines will be imposed as of 15 June, 2017. It will be up to the law as to what is deemed as offensive language unsuitable for public consumption.