Moroccan Forum of Young Journalists Calls for Reform of the National Press Council Bill

The Moroccan Forum of Young Journalists has called for a calm and responsible institutional dialogue regarding the draft law to reorganize the National Press Council, emphasizing the urgent need to revise the punitive disciplinary measures, which currently lack sufficient legal safeguards to protect journalists’ freedom and independence within media companies.

In an official statement, the Forum stressed the importance of enhancing the representation of professional journalists within the council structure, in comparison to publishers, and enabling them to fully participate in drafting the annual report on press freedom and related violations, to ensure it reflects the real state of the media landscape.

While acknowledging some positive aspects of the bill — notably the introduction of direct elections, individual voting, and gender equality principles — the Forum warned against using turnover as a criterion for media representation, arguing that it may undermine media diversity and marginalize small and medium-sized outlets, which are crucial for local and pluralistic journalism.

The Forum also proposed the creation of elected editorial boards within major newsrooms, tasked with upholding journalistic ethics, editorial independence, and protecting journalists’ rights. It urged that this mechanism be integrated into the national code of ethics for press and publishing.

The statement reiterated that self-regulation should be a tool to safeguard freedom of expression and preserve journalistic dignity, steering clear of punitive or administrative control approaches, and aligning with international standards and best practices.

Finally, the Forum announced that it is preparing a comprehensive memorandum to revise the Press and Publishing Law, containing practical suggestions and a participatory vision to create a modern legal framework that ensures press independence and serves public interest.