Bahrain’s Information Affairs Authority (IAA) has mapped out a five-year strategy to revamp the media sector, a report said.

It comprises 46 initiatives aimed at developing the sector in legislative, structural, technical and training fields, reported the Gulf Daily News, our sister publication.

"The strategy aims to project to the world the right image of the kingdom and enhance investment in the media field," Minister of State for Information Affairs and government's official spokeswoman Sameera Rajab said yesterday.

She was responding to a question in parliament on IAA's media strategy and projects.

"The plan was discussed by IAA officials, approved by the Cabinet and presented during a Press conference," she said.

Rajab pointed out that over the past year, the ministry had laid the foundation for the development process to ensure its sustainability.

The ministry has also completed the draft Information and Communication Law, which is a necessary legislative step to promote freedom of opinion and expression.

"A special directorate has been set up to keep abreast of the latest technical and technological developments. We have also established the government's official spokesperson's office to enhance communication with local and foreign media outlets."

Rajab said the ministry had set up the High Authority for Information and Communication, an independent body in charge of ensuring pluralism and respect of freedom of opinion and expression, as well as regulating the Press and media.

The Media Training Centre at IAA and the Information and Communication Academy were established to enhance training.

The minister highlighted IAA's new organisational structure, noting that the old one, dating back to 1993, is no longer suitable.

Structure

"The new structure is the result of more than 200 meetings held in 14 months with IAA's directorates and departments," said Rajab, praising the Civil Service Bureau's support and professionalism.

Regarding the media campaigns orchestrated against the kingdom, the minister voiced pride in the tremendous efforts exerted by the IAA to project the real and bright civilisational image of Bahrain at regional and international media gatherings.

She affirmed that periodic statistics issued by specialised and impartial sides revealed that up to March this year, the kingdom's image in international media has turned 35 per cent positive and 61 per cent neutral, which, she said, testifies to the success of IAA's plan. – TradeArabia News Service