✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada
ALGIERS- At a conference addressing various media-related topics, Mohamed Laâgab, Algeria’s Minister of Communication, provided insights into freedom of the press and the media landscape in the country. Laâgab highlighted the nuanced relationship between freedom and economic factors, revealing that the decline in freedom was primarily linked to economic considerations rather than direct political interference. He noted, “I have met several journalists, newspaper and television channel directors, and media publishers. I asked them if anyone in Algeria had ever asked them not to write about a particular topic, and they answered in the negative. Then we started analyzing why there was a decline in freedom, and we found that it was related to other parameters, unrelated to political or media treatment. The relationship lies in the ongoing economic activity, which is not sufficiently developed. When economic activity develops, media companies will be freed from dependence on public advertising. The advertising variable leads to self-censorship.”
Expanding on this issue, Laâgab emphasized, “Sometimes we invite journalists to cover a story, but there is no follow-up. For example, yesterday we announced that Algeria was exporting insulin for the first time to an important country, Saudi Arabia, but very few media outlets covered it.” Regarding the perception of freedom, he mentioned that each country has its “threshold of freedom,” and while freedom is highly valued in Europe and the United States, there’s often a double standard when addressing issues related to the Arab world, Palestine, or Gaza.
“I would also like to say that African journalists, like their Arab and Muslim counterparts, are discriminated against, even though International Press Freedom Day was an idea from African journalists. In my opinion, we should not be impressed by the Western model,” remarked Laâgab.
Discussing television programs during Ramadan, Laâgab believed that “intellectual production arises from society.” He mentioned discussions with television channel executives to encourage diverse content and professionalism. “The way things are said is very important. That’s why we emphasize professionalism, which is about knowing how to present things, understanding the angles, and conducting media coverage of various subjects. And frankly, there is a lack of this in Algeria,” he added.
Furthermore, Laâgab discussed the department’s strategy, which has “a comprehensive view of the media,” emphasizing that “information laws are very important.” He also mentioned the completion of the preparation of the law on the press support fund, which will further finance specialized and cultural press.
About Dzair Tube Media Group
Dzair Tube has firmly established itself as a prominent player among Algerian digital news sites, offering a diverse and enriching content experience. The platform, available in Arabic, French, and English editions, captures the attention of a wide-ranging audience, amassing over half a million daily clicks.
A testament to its commitment to excellence, Dzair Tube received the prestigious President of the Republic’s Award for Professional Journalist in the Electronic Press category on October 22, 2022. This recognition underscores the platform’s unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of journalism.
With a significant online presence, Dzair Tube boasts 350,000 subscribers on YouTube, over five million followers on various Facebook pages, and 450,000 subscribers on Instagram. Its digital channel has become a hub for diverse programming, covering news, sports, entertainment, culture, and religion, catering to a broad spectrum of audience preferences.
Equipped with state-of-the-art studios and advanced technology, Dzair Tube’s digital channel has garnered substantial viewership for its varied programs. Hosting interactive discussions with influential figures across different domains, the platform actively fosters public discourse and engagement. Beyond news coverage, Dzair Tube extends its commitment to the production of marketing documentaries, short TV commercials, and high-viewership programs.
The success of the print edition of Dzair Tube’s sports newspaper, “Dzair Sport,” further highlights the platform’s impact, with over 50,000 daily downloads from the official Dzair Tube website.
Honored with the Media Leadership Award from the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laâgab, Dzair Tube continues to shape the landscape of Algerian digital news, maintaining a position of influence and impact in the media industry.
