BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algeria Declares a Media Front: Minister Meziane Calls for United Editorial Line to Defend National Image
Algiers, Algeria | April 17th, 2025 — In a powerful and unambiguous statement, Algeria’s Minister of Communication, Mohamed Meziane, announced the country’s intention to form a national media front, warning that hostile circles have launched a full-scale media war against Algeria in reaction to its assertive push for a unified and sovereign media discourse.
Speaking on Thursday at the first regional conference for journalists and media professionals held in Oran, Meziane clarified that “this media front is not a political party, nor a civil association—it is the formulation of a new media landscape rooted in a values-based editorial line.” He emphasized that this collective front must mobilize all national media institutions to safeguard the integrity and reputation of Algeria, especially in the face of what he described as orchestrated smear campaigns targeting the Republic’s institutions and its symbolic pillars.
“When the symbols and institutions of the Republic are attacked, Algerian media must respond as one man, with a unified editorial vision rooted in shared national values. This is a moral and professional imperative,” the minister declared.
Meziane elaborated that the philosophy of the national media front is anchored in ethical journalism, with an obligation for every media outlet—public or private—to adopt a values-driven editorial position when national unity and Algeria’s global image are at stake.
He asserted that “the national media will be the soft power that supports Algeria’s transition toward becoming an emerging nation,” echoing the government’s ambition to position Algeria as a regional and continental leader across economic, political, and diplomatic spheres.
“National media must accompany and reflect Algeria’s dynamic transformation at all levels,” Meziane said. “It must reinforce national cohesion and counteract all attempts at division and defamation.”
On the topic of press freedom, the minister reaffirmed its “sacred” status, but drew a firm line between responsible journalism and the misuse of constitutional freedoms to undermine national values and republican principles.
“Freedom of expression is sacred,” Meziane stated. “But no institution of the Republic will tolerate the exploitation of this freedom to attack the foundational values of the Algerian people, which are enshrined in our Constitution.”
He concluded by affirming that Algeria’s string of diplomatic successes—particularly across Africa—serve as a direct rebuttal to those engaged in hostile media offensives. The minister characterized these victories as proof of Algeria’s growing influence, and a clear signal that the Republic will not be swayed by external pressure or defamation campaigns.
