Moroccan Journalists’ Union Demands Permanent Withdrawal of New Press Card System
Moroccan Journalists Union Demands Permanent Withdrawal of Provisional Press Card System
The Moroccan National Press Union (SNPM) is calling for the permanent abolishment of a new “special system” for obtaining press cards, recently introduced by the Provisional Committee for the Management of Press and Publishing Affairs (the interim National Press Council).
This call to action follows the committee’s announcement that applications for the 2025 professional press card will open on November 1st, operating under this new system. The SNPM has expressed strong disapproval of both the new application timeline and the “special system” itself, deeming it detrimental to the journalism profession in Morocco.
While details of the “special system” remain unclear, the SNPM argues that it creates unnecessary barriers for journalists. This move comes at a time when press freedom is facing increasing challenges globally. According to Reporters Without Borders’ 2023 World Press Freedom Index, Morocco ranks 135th out of 180 countries, highlighting the vulnerability of journalistic independence in the region.
The SNPM believes that a fair and transparent system for obtaining press cards is crucial for safeguarding journalistic integrity and freedom. The union advocates for a system that upholds professional standards without imposing undue restrictions on journalists’ ability to operate freely and independently.
This situation underscores the ongoing struggle for press freedom in Morocco and the importance of organizations like the SNPM in advocating for the rights of journalists. The outcome of this dispute could have significant implications for the future of journalism in the country.
Moroccan Journalists Union Demands Scrapping of New Press Card System
The National Union of Moroccan Journalists (NUMJ) has voiced strong opposition to a new system for obtaining press cards, calling for its complete withdrawal. The system, recently introduced by the Provisional Committee for the Management of Press and Publishing Affairs (also known as the National Press Council), has sparked controversy within the Moroccan media landscape.
The NUMJ’s discontent stems from the Provisional Committee’s announcement that applications for the 2025 professional press card will be accepted starting November 1st. This new system, dubbed the ”Special System for Regulating Entry into the Profession,” has raised concerns about potential restrictions on press freedom and access to the profession.
While details of the new system remain unclear, the NUMJ argues that it lacks transparency and was implemented without proper consultation with key stakeholders, including journalist unions. This lack of dialogue, they argue, undermines the vital role unions play in safeguarding journalistic integrity and independence.
The NUMJ’s call for the system’s withdrawal reflects a broader global conversation about press freedom and the challenges faced by journalists. According to Reporters Without Borders’ 2023 World Press Freedom Index, Morocco ranks 135th out of 180 countries, highlighting the ongoing struggle for media freedom in the region.
The union’s stance underscores the importance of a free and independent press in a democratic society. By demanding the withdrawal of the new system, the NUMJ aims to protect the rights of journalists and ensure the free flow of information in Morocco.
This developing story highlights the ongoing tension between government oversight and press freedom. It remains to be seen how the Provisional Committee will respond to the NUMJ’s demands and what impact this new system will have on the future of journalism in Morocco.
