Discussion session at the group on the draft revised press law on the afternoon of October 23. (Photo: VOV)

National Assembly Deputy Do Tien Sy of Hung Yen province suggested supplementing these new types of journalism in the law as press agencies are producing integrated digital products, including articles, videos, audio, livestreams, mobile apps, and social media content.

National Assembly Deputy Do Tien Sy of Hung Yen province speaks at the discussion

Mr. Sy said: “The law should clearly define what constitutes a digital content channel of a press agency. We propose that it be revised as ‘multimedia, multi-platform journalism’, a type of journalism published and delivered in cyberspace, while also integrating print, radio, and television formats. This definition reflects the ongoing digital transformation. In fact, many online newspapers today already produce audio and television-style livestreams. This is an issue we must study further to develop a proper concept, which will make implementation in practice much easier.”

Another major topic discussed by the deputies was press economics. Most agreed that the revised law should include clearer regulations to improve the quality and financial autonomy of press operations while ensuring the media continues to serve the public interest, as well as strengthen financial transparency and accountability among press agencies.

National Assembly Deputy Trinh Xuan An of Dong Nai province said: “If necessary, we should create a separate section or article on key national multimedia communication agencies. For example, the roles of VOV (Voice of Vietnam) and VTV (Vietnam Television) must be distinguished from other outlets, with special mechanisms regarding finance, autonomy, and resources to match their strategic positions. Additionally, the concept of ‘media groups should be further clarified within this draft law.”