Algeria Adopts Comprehensive Media Legislation to Enhance Professionalism, Local Content

BY: Hana Saada

ALGIERS- In a landmark development, Algeria has embraced a comprehensive set of laws to bolster professionalism, navigate regulatory challenges, and champion local content within the realms of print, electronic media, and the audiovisual sector. Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laagab, articulated the intricacies of these legislative reforms during his address to the Senate.

Key Highlights of the Legislation:

1. Promotion of National Media Production: The primary objective of the law is to champion and support national media production. Precise adjustments have been instituted to eradicate ambiguities and elevate professionalism across the sector.
2. Resolution of Issues within ARAV: A significant aspect of the legislation revolves around resolving disputes within the Audiovisual Regulation Authority (ARAV) without resorting to legal proceedings. This strategic move aims to exercise control over media content and enhance the organization of the media market, particularly in the realm of advertising.
3. Exclusion of Intruders and Illicit Funds: The legislation seeks to exclude intruders and illicit funds, with a focus on preventing the recurrence of past negative experiences. Political parties and unions are actively encouraged to participate in the media domain, promoting transparency and accountability.
4. Content Quotas and Journalists’ Rights: The law underscores the importance of broadcasting a minimum of 60% Algerian content. Simultaneously, it prioritizes respecting journalists’ rights, ensuring they are not coerced into adhering to ideas conflicting with their professional beliefs.
5. Preservation of Media Diversity: To counteract the concentration of media ownership, the law prohibits a legal entity from owning more than one general information periodic publication of the same frequency in Algeria. This provision aims to foster a diverse and inclusive media landscape.
6. Preservation of Local Identity in Electronic Media: Local electronic media outlets are now mandated to use the national domain name “.dz,” a move that enhances their connection to Algeria’s national identity and aligns with the provisions of the electronic media law.
7. Requirements for Directors of Print Media: Directors of local media outlets must meet stringent criteria, including a minimum of 8 years of experience in the press industry, Algerian nationality, and a clean record without prior convictions related to corruption.
8. Abrogation of Article 30: A pivotal decision to repeal Article 30, which previously limited participation in channels to avoid closure, has been executed. The replacement provisions focus on prohibiting monopolies, foreign capital, and other measures, promoting a fair and competitive media environment.
9. Creation of Regulatory Authorities: The legislation includes the establishment of regulatory authorities for print and electronic media, as well as an authority for audiovisual regulation. These entities are vested with the authority to control content, verify information accuracy, and regulate the advertising market to ensure compliance with laws and sector standards.

This robust legislative framework underscores Algeria’s steadfast commitment to nurturing a vibrant, diverse, and professional media landscape while effectively addressing contemporary challenges and seizing opportunities.

President’s Award for Professional Journalists Ceremony to Take Place on December 2-3

In a related context, Minister of Communication Mohamed Laagab unveiled the rescheduled festivities for National Press Day, including the esteemed President of the Republic’s Award for Professional Journalists. The celebrations, initially postponed in solidarity with the Palestinian people facing heinous crimes, are now slated to unfold on December 2-3.

During a press statement on the sidelines of the plenary session at the Council of the Nation, focused on presenting and debating legislative bills related to print, electronic media, and audiovisual activities, Laagab delineated the events planned for the occasion. The festivities will encompass engaging conferences and workshops addressing the “current concerns of the Information sector.”

On December 3, the spotlight will shift to the presentation of the President’s Award for Professional Journalists by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. The awards ceremony will honor individuals excelling in various specialties within the field of journalism.

Addressing the potential for drafting a specific law for professional journalists, Minister Laagab noted the existence of statutes that already incorporate several elements found in sector-related laws. He highlighted the opportunity for future discussions between the ministry and sector unions to realize additional benefits for journalists.

In this context, the minister recalled President Tebboune’s prior call for journalists to organize themselves, emphasizing that this initiative has yet to materialize. Laagab reiterated the invitation, on behalf of the President, for sector affiliates to “organize within professional associations capable of negotiating with relevant parties.”