“Algerian Journalists Must Stand United Against Deceptive Narratives and Media Hostility” – NOAJ President Abdouche

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

National Organization of Algerian Journalists Holds First General Assembly: A Firm Stand Against Media Hostility and a Pledge to Strengthen the Press Sector

Algiers, Algeria | February 22nd, 2025 —  The National Organization of Algerian Journalists (NOAJ) convened its inaugural General Assembly, reinforcing its commitment to upholding journalistic integrity and defending Algeria against external media offensives.

In a momentous gathering attended by senior officials, including the representative of the Minister of Communication and the President of the National Civil Society Observatory, NOAJ President Soulaimane Abdouche delivered an address outlining the organization’s mission to fortify Algerian journalism in the face of mounting challenges.

Abdouche emphasized that the NOAJ was established in direct response to President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s call for journalists to unite and actively contribute to the country’s media landscape. He underscored the crucial role of the press in safeguarding national stability, combating misinformation, and promoting professional, responsible journalism.

A Press Sector Committed to National Defense

The NOAJ leader stressed that Algeria’s free and conscious press has a duty to counteract hostile foreign narratives aimed at destabilizing the nation. He recalled the long history of Algerian journalists’ sacrifices, from those who supported the independence movement to those who perished in the tragic plane crash of March 8, 1974, and the journalists who lost their lives during the dark decade of terrorism. These sacrifices, he noted, have laid the foundation for a responsible and resilient national press.

Abdouche warned of intensified foreign disinformation campaigns targeting Algeria’s social cohesion and institutions, propagated by well-known media outlets that systematically distort facts. He attributed these attacks to Algeria’s undeniable resurgence on regional and global fronts, citing the country’s diplomatic victories, economic growth, and strengthened institutional framework.

The NOAJ President pointed to Algeria’s recent achievements, including its election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, where it has consistently defended just causes such as Palestinian rights and the Sahrawi people’s self-determination. He also highlighted Algeria’s robust anti-terrorism advocacy and its economic and agricultural advancements, which have positioned the country as an emerging regional power.

He cautioned that certain adversaries—ranging from Morocco’s regime, which he described as a tool of Zionist influence, to former colonial powers and other entities seeking regional dominance—are seeking to undermine Algeria’s progress. Given these realities, Abdouche called on Algerian journalists to expose and neutralize malicious propaganda while maintaining professional ethics and objectivity.

A Renewed Commitment to Strengthening the Media Sector

The NOAJ reiterated its unwavering support for the government’s efforts to bolster Algeria’s media landscape. Abdouche praised President Tebboune’s fulfillment of his electoral commitments, particularly those concerning press freedom and sectoral reforms. He commended the recent regulatory developments, including the enactment of new press laws and the facilitation of a conducive working environment for journalists.

The organization highlighted its achievements over the past year, including the successful adoption of an ethical charter for election coverage, the organization of nationwide symposiums on combating disinformation, and initiatives addressing the role of artificial intelligence in safeguarding Algeria’s digital sovereignty. The NOAJ has also secured key agreements with hospitality and tourism institutions and is negotiating future collaborations with Air Algérie and Algeria Telecom to enhance journalists’ working conditions.

Looking ahead, the NOAJ aims to play a pivotal role in structuring and modernizing the sector. With the increasing importance of local journalism in fostering civic engagement and the rapid digitalization of media, Abdouche underscored the need for continuous training and capacity-building. He pledged that the organization would work closely with the government to support digital transformation initiatives and further professionalize the field.

Closing his address, Abdouche expressed confidence that the NOAJ would become a unifying platform for Algeria’s media professionals. He urged journalists to embrace their responsibilities, engage in constructive dialogue, and contribute to shaping a press sector that is both resilient and influential in the face of contemporary challenges.

 

 

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