The Sri Lankan Government has published a new Bill proposing the establishment of the Chartered Institute of Media Professionals of Sri Lanka, aimed at regulating and professionalizing the country’s media sector.
The Bill appeared in the Extraordinary Gazette Supplement issued on June 5, 2026.
According to the proposed legislation, the Institute will function as a corporate body responsible for maintaining professional standards among media practitioners and promoting education, research, and training in the field of media.
The Institute’s objectives include enrolling qualified media professionals, conducting training and examinations, promoting ethical conduct, organizing seminars and workshops, and supporting research into modern communication trends.
The Bill grants the Institute authority to advise the Government on media education and professionalism, regulate student registration, conduct examinations, establish libraries and research centers, and collaborate with local and foreign institutions.
Administration of the Institute will be handled by a 15-member Governing Council consisting of elected and appointed media professionals. Until the Council is formed, an Interim Council appointed by the Minister will oversee initial operations.
The proposed law also introduces disciplinary procedures for professional misconduct and allows the Institute to suspend or remove members found guilty after inquiry by a Disciplinary Committee.
Under the Bill, the Institute will be recognized as a scheduled institution under Sri Lanka’s Anti-Corruption Act, No. 9 of 2023.
The legislation defines “media professionals” broadly, covering journalists, editors, broadcasters, presenters, content creators, publishers, media educators, researchers, technicians, and camera operators.
