Decree 367/2026, which outlines administrative penalties for violations in the press sector, will come into effect on 26/9. This regulation aims to protect the safety of journalists and reporters during their legitimate work while simultaneously tightening professional responsibility for those in the media profession.
The decree significantly increases fines for certain acts that obstruct press activities. It also expands the scope of legal protection for journalists and introduces stricter forms of redress for violations.
Threatening journalists can incur fines up to 100 million dong
The minimum fine for individuals unlawfully obstructing the professional activities of journalists and reporters has doubled, rising from 10 million to 20 million dong. The maximum fine of 30 million dong remains unchanged. Furthermore, obstructing the provision of information to the press will now incur a fine of 5-10 million dong, a significant increase from the 1-3 million dong stipulated in the previous Decree 119/2020.
In addition to increased financial penalties, Decree 367 expands the scope of legal protection by adding the right to safeguard the "reputation" of journalists and reporters, alongside their "honor and dignity". Violators, previously only required to issue a general apology, will now be compelled to make a "public apology through mass media".
Beyond these adjustments, the new decree maintains fines of 50-70 million dong for acts of insulting or destroying journalists' equipment. Individuals who threaten or intimidate a journalist's life, but whose actions do not yet warrant criminal prosecution, will face fines of 70-100 million dong.
Tightening ethical standards and legal responsibility in reporting
Decree 367 enhances discipline for media professionals by significantly increasing financial penalties. This aims to prevent the abuse of journalistic credentials and ensure responsible reporting.
For instance, the new decree imposes fines of 5-10 million dong for using expired introduction letters or using them for improper purposes, content, or work locations. The previous regulation did not specify a penalty for these actions.
Fines for actions such as sending reporters to work outside their stated principles or objectives, requesting information inconsistent with these principles, or failing to recall and return press cards have increased two to four times, now ranging from 10-20 million dong. Additionally, individuals who exploit journalistic activities beyond their stated scope and purpose for personal gain will be fined 30-50 million dong.
In addition to adjusting fines, Decree 367 introduces a mechanism allowing authorities to temporarily seize national (.vn) or international domain names for serious press violations. These include publishing information that misrepresents national sovereignty maps, disseminating distorted or slanderous content, or causing public confusion.
By Hai Thu
