BY: Dr. Hana Saada
During the 4th Regional Meeting of Journalists and Media Professionals in Algiers, Meziane Calls for a National Media Front, Emphasizes the Digital Transition, and Urges Ethical, High-Quality Journalism to Defend Algeria’s Image
Algiers, Algeria | April 28th, 2025 — In a decisive and forward-looking address, Algeria’s Minister of Communication, Mohamed Meziane, laid out the foundational pillars for the future of the national media sector during the inauguration of the 4th Regional Meeting of Journalists and Media Professionals held on Monday in Algiers. The event brought together senior officials from various media institutions, representatives of national associations and unions, as well as journalists from 13 central provinces, affirming the government’s commitment to fostering a resilient, ethical, and technologically adept media landscape.
Organized around four pivotal workshops, the meeting tackled critical issues including the new legal framework governing the communication sector and professional ethics; the status of audiovisual, print, and electronic press in light of the disruptive challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI) and 5G technologies; the vital role of institutional communication in enhancing Algeria’s global image; and the imperative for specialized and ongoing training to meet the demands of tomorrow’s media professions.
Facing the Challenge of Artificial Intelligence and Rapid Technological Evolution
In his opening remarks, Minister Meziane warned against the looming challenges brought forth by the sudden surge of AI technologies and rapid digital transformations. He stressed that the national press must undergo a profound adaptation to preserve its role as a credible source of information and public awareness. “The irruption of artificial intelligence requires a recalibration of our journalistic practices. Specialized and continuous training is no longer optional; it is a national necessity,” Meziane declared.
Highlighting the dangers of misinformation campaigns targeting Algeria, Meziane denounced the coordinated efforts to weaken the national media. He firmly reassured the audience of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s unwavering support for a free, responsible press, which he described as a cornerstone of democracy and a vital lever for national development.
Call for the Creation of a National Media Front
In a strong and impassioned appeal, Meziane called for the creation of a “national media front” to safeguard Algeria’s interests and counteract hostile campaigns. “We must unite our media voices to form a civilized, professional, and patriotic front capable of defending the nation and countering destabilization attempts,” he insisted, underlining that this initiative aligns with President Tebboune’s broader strategy of building a cohesive and resilient internal front.
He pointedly rejected claims of government interference in editorial lines, emphasizing that “never has the executive power sought to control or dictate the editorial policies of the national press.” Meziane warned against the manipulation of freedom of expression to serve hidden agendas and destabilize the country under the guise of criticism.
Combatting Misinformation and Promoting Ethical Journalism
Addressing the increasingly pernicious role of disinformation, especially via social networks, the Minister urged journalists to exercise vigilance and rigor in their sourcing practices. “Reliable information is the bedrock of national sovereignty. A message based on falsehoods can undermine the very foundations of a nation,” he cautioned.
He reaffirmed the importance of distinguishing between constructive criticism — essential to societal development — and defamatory attacks that aim to discredit and destabilize. “In journalism, facts are sacred; opinions are free. This fundamental principle must guide all media practice,” he reiterated.
Towards a Qualitative Leap: A Clear Roadmap for Media Modernization
In an introspective segment of his speech, Meziane acknowledged the accumulated challenges facing the sector, affirming that the government, armed with knowledge, patience, and reflection, has developed a clear roadmap to transition the media landscape from a purely quantitative focus towards qualitative excellence. “Our ambition is not merely to expand the media sector in numbers but to enrich it in substance, professionalism, and credibility,” he emphasized.
In today’s dynamic information age, where media consumption habits and distribution channels evolve at unprecedented speeds, Meziane insisted that “the digital transformation must be accompanied with full awareness and a serious commitment to producing dense, high-quality content.” He called on media outlets to maintain a strong and credible presence across digital platforms and social media, warning that the misuse of these channels by destabilizing forces had been notably observed since the hostile campaigns targeting Algeria began in August 2024.
Promoting Specialized Training, Innovation, and Digital Transition
Recognizing the urgent need to bridge the digital divide, Meziane stressed the critical importance of mastering digital tools and integrating them into journalistic practices. “The challenge of digitizing the media sector is not optional; it is a strategic priority to ensure our sovereignty and competitiveness in the global information arena,” he affirmed.
The Minister cited several initiatives currently underway, including specialized training programs across various domains of journalism, the requalification of journalists in new technological and editorial techniques — particularly web writing — and a systematic approach to mastering emerging technologies, with a special focus on artificial intelligence. “The AI revolution has rendered technological mastery a vital necessity. Our media professionals must be fully prepared to navigate and lead in this new environment,” Meziane insisted.
The Strategic Role of Proximity Media
Turning to the importance of local journalism, Meziane underscored the strategic value of proximity media in reinforcing national cohesion. “Proximity information has become a strategic necessity. It allows the media to connect deeply with citizens’ real concerns and aspirations, thereby shielding society from misinformation and negative external influences,” he explained.
He called for the promotion of local content that authentically reflects the realities of neighborhoods, villages, and cities, stressing that such media must serve as a platform for citizens’ voices, hopes, and legitimate grievances. “A media landscape rooted in the daily life of citizens is the best antidote to manipulation and social destabilization,” Meziane said.
A Vision Anchored in Professionalism, Patriotism, and Innovation
In conclusion, Minister Meziane emphasized that the future of Algerian media hinges on professionalism, integrity, and a clear embrace of innovation. He reiterated that the government remains firmly committed to supporting a free, responsible, and dynamic press capable of defending the nation’s image, accompanying societal development, and responding adeptly to new global media challenges.
“Algeria’s media must not merely follow the changes of the world; it must anticipate them, master them, and shape them in a manner faithful to our national values and aspirations,” Meziane affirmed, issuing a rallying call to journalists, media leaders, and policymakers alike to join forces in building a strong, vibrant, and sovereign Algerian media sector ready to meet the challenges of the future.
