ENFORCING MEDIA LAWS AND ETHICS IN THE AGE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND BIG DATA

This study assessed the enforcing media laws and ethics in the age of artificial intelligence and big data. The technological determinism theory was anchored as a theoretical framework. This study adopted a multiple case study design. The study population consisted of an estimated 250 stakeholders, including media regulators, policymakers, journalists, legal practitioners, and representatives of technology platforms who are directly involved in governance, regulation, or practice within AI-driven media environments. A sample size of 30 participants was selected using purposive sampling to ensure that only individuals with relevant expertise and practical experience are included. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and document analysis of policy reports, regulatory frameworks, and institutional guidelines. The collected data were analysed using thematic analysis, enabling the researcher to identify patterns, similarities, and differences across cases while linking them to the research objectives The study revealed that the existing media laws and ethical frameworks are only partially effective in addressing the challenges of artificial intelligence and big data, with stronger effectiveness in the European Union, moderate reliance on self-regulation in the United States, and weak or outdated frameworks in Africa and Nigeria. The study concluded that the existing media laws and ethical frameworks are inadequate to fully address the challenges posed by artificial intelligence and big data, making legal reforms and AI-specific provisions essential. The study recommended that national legislatures and law reform commissions should update media laws to include AI-specific provisions that address algorithmic transparency, bias, and accountability