The forefront of media innovation is being driven by the digitally-savvy younger generation, heralding a new era for electronic journalism in New Algeria
BY: Hana Saada
Algeria, October 8, 2023 – During the Arab Summit in Algeria on November 1, 2022, both Arab and foreign media experts witnessed a significant milestone that underscores Algeria’s remarkable progress in digital transformation and the adoption of cutting-edge media and communication technologies. This progress allowed the 2022 Algeria Summit to claim the title of “The first Arab summit without paper,” a feat that was lauded by media delegations for its impeccable organization and the ample resources provided to facilitate their work.
This achievement hardly came as a surprise to many representatives from Arab and foreign media outlets who witnessed firsthand the impressive capabilities of young Algerian journalists, most of whom are actively engaged in electronic news platforms. These journalists adeptly navigated high-tech computers, intricate software, and large screens to present their content. The Algerian government went the extra mile by equipping participating delegations and media professionals with digital tools instead of traditional paper documents, symbolizing the dawn of a new media era that Algeria is embarking upon.”
The Challenging Journey of Electronic Journalism in a Pre-Modern Setting
In the past, electronic journalism faced significant challenges at a time when social media was exploding, and the digital revolution was transforming the landscape of audiovisual media. This transformation saw smartphones replace television screens and traditional print journalism becoming outdated for information dissemination. Despite these changes, the Algerian government refused to recognize digital media, which led to a lack of discussions about its future and the benefits it could offer.
During this period, the existing system procrastinated in establishing a legal framework to create a conducive media environment. It actively hindered the efforts of relevant public authorities and the print media community, discouraging progress and delaying the establishment of regulatory bodies for electronic media. At times, the government viewed electronic media with suspicion, considering it a threat that challenged the national media and the entire nation of Algeria.
President Tebboune’s Vision for Digital Journalism: Navigating a Promising Path with Algeria’s Ambitious Youth
President Tebboune recognized the significant impact of the digital explosion on media even before assuming power in Algeria. He saw the potential it held for advancing the media industry and enhancing communication methods in the new Algeria. This vision became a cornerstone of his presidential campaign, where he specifically addressed and made promises to young media professionals.
According to Dr. Mohamed Tayeb, a lecturer at the University of Algiers’ Faculty of Media and Communication Sciences, electronic journalism emerged as an extension of traditional print journalism, driven by rapid digital transformations worldwide. Algeria was not immune to these changes and the challenges they presented. Consequently, the Algerian state embraced the birth and growth of digital journalism as a significant gain for both Algeria and the media sector, recognizing its sensitivity.
Since taking office, the President has developed a comprehensive plan that places digital journalism at the forefront of media sector reforms. This plan encompasses vital elements, including the revision of the legal framework to modernize and rejuvenate it, thereby distancing it from past practices. This effort resulted in the creation of an organic media law, a crucial addition to the National Communication policy. Its primary aim is to bolster the rights of media professionals and pave new avenues for journalism in the digital age. These reforms are particularly critical in the face of external campaigns targeting Algeria, to which the electronic press youth have responded with determination.
Revolutionizing Algerian Media: The Impact of Electronic Journalism on Youth Engagement and Legal Reforms
In January 2018, a study titled “Young people’s engagement with Algerian electronic media and their interaction with its content” was conducted among 50 students from the Department of Media and Communication Sciences at the University of Mohamed Khider (Biskra). The research unveiled a significant surge in interaction with Algerian electronic media, whether through websites or social media pages. What attracted the audience was the immediacy and interactivity offered by electronic newspapers, providing frequent updates on news and events.
This newfound connection between Algerian electronic media, a pivotal new media technology, and the explosive growth of social networking sites led to the creation of news platforms on these sites, reaching a broader audience. The electronic press fostered an unprecedented level of interaction, ranging from reading articles to direct inquiries with journalists.
Simultaneously, “New Algeria” recognized the substantial media gap created by previous policies that underestimated the digital revolution’s impact on communications and journalism, particularly among young people. This shift was emphasized in the 2020 constitutional amendment, which aimed to promote media freedom while establishing necessary regulations. Executive Decree 20-232 addressed the legal void regarding online media, providing a solid legal foundation for electronic journalism.
Aligned with the principles outlined in the 2020 Constitution, efforts began to formulate comprehensive media legislation. This legislation sought to fulfill citizens’ expectations, address the profession’s regulatory needs, and adapt to technological advancements while adhering to international standards. The ultimate goal was to enhance freedom in the written, audiovisual, and electronic press, fostering a media landscape rooted in the national context and upholding ethical and professional standards.
Electronic Press Takes Up Arms in Defense of Algeria’s Institutions Against Cyber Threats
In a bold move to safeguard Algeria’s institutions and counter anti-Algerian campaigns, the electronic press has risen to the forefront of the battle. President Tebboune’s prior warning about electronic attacks from unnamed foreign nations came during his speech to the Republic’s governors at the Palace of Nations on September 25, 2021. He disclosed that 97 websites were targeting Algeria, primarily from neighboring countries, hinting at the Western neighbor. He asserted that Algeria possessed the capabilities to monitor websites propagating falsehoods.
These statements served as a call to action for the electronic press, aligning with the Algerian state’s mission to defend its institutions, national security, and unity against hostile forces. This unspoken invitation also lent a sense of organization to electronic journalism.
President Tebboune’s foresight proved accurate as foreign media exposed a sinister plot that targeted Algeria and several other nations. It revealed that the Zionist entity had granted Morocco access to the “Pegasus” program, developed by the Israeli “NSO” group, for the purpose of eavesdropping on prominent figures in multiple countries. This operation involved hacking into their phones, monitoring emails, capturing photos, and recording conversations.
Algeria’s Empowerment of Young Media Talent: A Catalyst for Creative Growth
In the wake of a significant security challenge, the landscape of electronic journalism in Algeria has undergone a remarkable transformation. At its core, this transformation has been driven by a cadre of youthful media professionals. Their pivotal role has expanded to align with the national imperative of bolstering cybersecurity and safeguarding critical institutions. The ability to swiftly disseminate information and counter hostile media campaigns has become paramount within this proactive security framework, setting digital media apart.
The pivotal moment in this journey commenced with the Ministry of Communication’s decision to embrace websites, elevating the digital media sector from a realm of illicit operations to official recognition. This shift marked a departure from the haphazard nature that had defined it, ushering in a new era of organization, purpose, and promise.
A significant milestone was reached with the enactment of Organic Law No. 23-14, encompassing 56 articles, which laid down the foundational principles and regulations governing media activities, including electronic journalism. This law underscored the establishment of an autonomous authority entrusted with overseeing both written and electronic media, endowing it with legal and financial independence.
Prior to the Organic Media Law, President Tebboune took a decisive step during a Council of Ministers meeting on May 28, 2023, by incorporating approved electronic journalism as a means to enhance the transparency of public transactions. This move received commendation from national organizations and journalist associations, heralding prospects for transparency and anticorruption efforts while bolstering the financial autonomy of newspapers and websites.
President Tebboune’s inauguration of the “DZAIR MEDIA CITY” project in Ouled Fayet, Algiers, symbolized the culmination of Algeria’s commitment to nurturing the media sector. This state-of-the-art facility offers an ideal professional environment aligned with international standards, catering to the needs of both public and private national media, including the young journalists of the electronic press. Here, they will find an enabling environment to hone their skills and unleash their creative potential.
The Presidency of the Republic’s Communications Directorate: A Cornerstone of Digital Media Advancement
The Communications Directorate operating under the Presidency of the Republic of Algeria stands out as an exemplar of excellence in the realm of communication and media relations within the nation. Their unwavering commitment to transparency, adherence to professional ethics, and resolute advocacy for Algeria’s interests and its institutional foundations have played a pivotal role in advancing the media landscape in the country.
Within this context, the Directorate has emerged as a driving force behind the elevation of electronic journalism’ status and the enhancement of its performance. This transformative journey has significantly expanded the Algerian media sphere, fostering a more diversified and comprehensive coverage of events in Algeria. This achievement can be attributed, in large part, to its strategic positioning as a vital link connecting Algeria’s most crucial institution, the Presidency of the Republic, with the media landscape, especially the more accessible digital press platforms that cater to people from all walks of life.
The Directorate has consistently kept its doors wide open to both national and private Algerian media outlets, fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual understanding. Their communicative approach has nurtured strong and harmonious relationships with the media, resulting in broad influence and positive engagement. Particularly noteworthy is their role in championing Algeria’s interests, safeguarding the nation’s accomplishments, and educating the public on the imperative of unity in the face of threats to the nation’s security and stability.
Journalist and academic researcher, Mustafa Bourzama, commends the wealth of talent within the Directorate of Communications in the Presidency of the Republic, comprised of journalists and specialists well-versed in the rapidly evolving field of electronic media. He emphasizes the need for a concerted effort, extending beyond the Directorate, involving the Prime Ministry and other government bodies. Such coordination, he notes, mirrors the integrated and coordinated media machinery employed by developed nations.
Dzair Tube: A Digital Vanguard in the Battle for Truth and Nationhood
“Dzair Tube” stands at the epicenter of a digital battleground, where a youthful team of digital media professionals ardently defends their nation while serving the public. This pioneering group has adeptly adapted to the evolving media landscape, emerging as one of Algeria’s most prominent non-traditional media entities. Through their primary digital channel and news website, they are unwavering in their commitment to disseminating diverse news and rich analyses in multiple languages.
Apart from Arabic and French, the English rendition was crafted to align with the President of the Republic’s desire to advance the adoption of the English language as the language associated with contemporary times, science, and modern technology.
Amid the intense media warfare waged by sites and platforms hostile to Algeria, “Dzair Tube” has distinguished itself through the contributions of its young and ambitious team of 35 individuals. They are diligently laying the foundation for a promising Algerian digital press that will serve as a formidable media arsenal, safeguarding their nation and its institutions from propaganda campaigns and infiltrations by hostile parties and nations.
In regard to the working environment at the institution “Dzair Tube,” Karim Kandouli, a correspondent for Al-Ghad TV channel, offers insights based on his close experience and interactions with colleagues at the group. He emphasizes that there are virtually no limits to the aspirations one can have when it’s the younger generation leading the way. This is clearly reflected in the remarkable accomplishments and awards of this dynamic group. The youthful team at “Dzair Tube” proudly boasts of its accolades, extensive coverage, and active participation in various international sporting events. The “Dzair Tube” electronic channel has particularly shone in its coverage of events such as the World Cup, the African Cup, the Chancellor’s Cup, and the African Cup for U17.
In his conversation with the “Dzair Tube” electronic channel, Karim Kandouli shares, “During my visit to their headquarters, I was struck by the vibrant and energetic atmosphere that pervades the place. It’s essentially a hub of young talent and enthusiasm. ‘Dzair Tube’ firmly believes in harnessing the potential of youthful energies and diverse talents. Many of these individuals hail from remote regions of Algeria, far from the capital, yet they have managed to make a significant impact.”
Majid Boutmin, an Algerian sports journalist featured on Al Jazeera, firmly asserts that a truthful media plays a vital role in shaping societies. He emphasizes the significant involvement and seamless integration of the “Dzair Tube” group within this pivotal framework. Boutmin further underscores his belief that Dzair Tube, an online channel, has rightfully earned its premier status in Algeria. This achievement, he notes, is a testament to the channel’s professionalism and credibility in delivering news and addressing diverse issues with a high level of professionalism. Moreover, Dzair Tube’s approach is characterized by a genuine respect for differing opinions and viewpoints, steering clear of populism and sensationalism. These qualities, Boutmin contends, have been key contributors to the channel’s prominent position in the media landscape.
Majid Boutamin openly voiced his appreciation for the “Dzair Tube” team, affirming his status as one of their dedicated followers. He was drawn to their youthful enthusiasm, describing them as a group of talented young individuals who deliver media content with a high level of professionalism and integrity. He particularly admired their polished presentation style and their ability to conduct insightful and expert interviews, effectively conveying information to their audience in a seamless manner.
In his statement to the “Dzair Tube” channel, Boutamin underscored a valuable insight: “When Algerian youth encounter a conducive work environment, they become creators.” It is undeniable that the new Algeria’s objectives have started to materialize. Despite the extensive support, improved working conditions, streamlined procedures, and updated laws provided by public authorities in favor of digital media, led by determined young journalists striving to excel and embrace the challenges of reaching advanced stages, they acknowledge that the road to developing the electronic journalism sector remains long. While they are confident that significant strides have been made during the era of the new Algeria, aligning it in the right direction, Dr. Mohamed Al-Tayeb emphasizes the need for further progress. He asserts, “Despite the commendable gains made by the electronic media sector in Algeria and its positive contributions, especially given the national and international developments and accompanying geostrategic implications, there is still room for enhancement. Electronic journalism must cultivate greater professionalism and expertise, aiming to achieve mastery in the realm of media and communication.”
