ABU DHABI, Aug 26: The National Media Office has referred a group of social media users to the Federal Public Prosecution for violating media content standards, it announced on Tuesday.

The office said the move is part of efforts to foster a responsible media environment, safeguard social values, and protect communities from non-constructive content. It urged all users to respect media ethics and values when using online platforms.

The decision followed monitoring, review, and evaluation of the content published by the individuals, which was found to contravene the standards of purposeful media content aligned with ethical principles, the office said in a statement.

It added that its monitoring team operates around the clock to detect and address violations. The team also alerts users of their breaches and urges compliance with regulations, laws, and directives. “These measures are aimed at ensuring a responsible media environment and protecting communities from non-constructive content,” the office noted.

The statement further called on all social media users to ensure their practices respect media ethics, social conduct, traditions, and applicable legislation.

In March, the office had underscored the importance of all social media users adhering to values and principles that reflect the state’s policies of respect, tolerance, and coexistence. It affirmed that, in cooperation with relevant authorities, legal action would be taken against anyone violating these guidelines in line with UAE laws, which seek to maintain a safe and balanced digital environment that fosters mutual respect.

Sheikh Abdullah Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office and Chairman of the UAE Media Council, said media responsibility is “a civilizational and ethical commitment that reflects the UAE’s values of respect and tolerance.”

“Words are a trust, and those who carry them are responsible for making them a bridge for closeness, not a tool for offense,” he said.

“Our actions are aimed at safeguarding words from descending into offense. We stand for freedom that respects others and upholds constructive dialogue. A word that plants respect yields trust, while a word that breaches ethics subjects its author to accountability,” he added.

Sheikh Abdullah further urged users to abide by ethical and legal standards, saying: “Conscious participation safeguards the nation’s reputation, preserves the individual’s standing, and strengthens bridges of trust with peoples of brotherly and friendly nations.”