The Moroccan Federation of Newspapers has criticized the management of public support for news organizations while expressing serious concerns about the leadership of the interim committee responsible for the National Press Council. The federation warned that failure to address these issues could exacerbate the ongoing crisis in self-regulation within the journalism sector.
During its fifth national council meeting held via remote communication on August 10, the federation conveyed its willingness to collaborate with the interim committee but underscored the necessity of clarifying several key points regarding the electoral framework for journalists and publishers. The federation highlighted a “stark contradiction” between the government announcement creating the committee and the committee’s own statements, which focused heavily on preparing for upcoming elections. This inconsistency raised questions about the committee’s powers, especially since the government entrusted it with full authority over the council.
Moreover, the federation took issue with a recent request for newspapers to submit lists of journalists holding professional cards, asserting that this was done without prior consultation with professional organizations on the election preparations. It called for clarity on the electoral body’s composition and the status of professional card renewals, considering the current cards are valid until 2025 and extended through 2026.
In addition, the federation reiterated its opposition to the law governing the National Press Council and expressed discontent with the government’s control over the appointment of interim committee members. It demanded an investigation into the practices and decisions of the institution following the expiration of the previous council’s term.
In terms of public support, the federation criticized the unilateral approach taken in disbursing funds to various enterprises, arguing that decisions were made without consulting sector representatives. It noted that eligibility criteria relied on social security data from 2025, despite more relevant documents being filed for 2026. This oversight negatively affected smaller enterprises, which found themselves receiving less support than previously.
Advocating for a more equitable public support system, the federation called for a framework that ensures fairness and enhances media pluralism, instead of what it described as “rent-seeking, dominance, and manipulative maneuvers.” It also expressed concern about the handling of southern regional media, claiming current decisions contradicted earlier commitments from ministry officials.
The federation argued that the crisis of journalism cannot be solved solely through public support or self-regulation, insisting on a comprehensive overhaul of the legal framework governing journalism and publishing. It emphasized the need to address dwindling content quality, the prevalence of defamation, ethical breaches, and the technological advancements shaping modern journalism.
Further, it urged the establishment of a fair legal framework for advertising that promotes equitable access to the advertising market, which is essential for improving the economic conditions of news organizations. It also highlighted the urgency of rebuilding trust in national journalism and reinforcing adherence to ethical standards.
The federation cautioned against ongoing fragmentation within the profession, criticizing the lack of coordination and dialogue among professional organizations representing journalists and publishers. It called for unity among newspaper publishers to facilitate constructive dialogue and bridge divisions to better serve sector interests and the country’s image.
On an organizational level, the national council approved preparations for the federation’s national conference, to be held no later than December 2026. It decided to extend the terms of the executive office and the federation’s president until a new leadership is elected. The council also urged member organizations to update their membership files and complete required documentation in preparation for the conference, while encouraging regional branches yet to hold their general assemblies to finalize this process.
Concluding the meeting, the council ratified the federation’s literary, financial, and outreach achievements since the last national council session and praised the executive office’s efforts, reaffirming its commitment to enhancing the organization’s performance and representation across the sector.
