The Algerian Ministry of Communication and the Independent National Electoral Authority (ANIE) recently organized a study day on "Media and 2026 Local Elections" in Algiers. The event aimed to highlight the crucial role of media in promoting electoral participation and ensuring a smooth electoral process. Participants, including media professionals and academics, discussed ways to enhance media coverage of the elections. They emphasized the need for responsible and professional reporting to encourage citizens to participate in the electoral process.
The study day resulted in several recommendations, including the intensification of study days and workshops to promote a culture of civic engagement and electoral participation. Participants also called for the development of a specific guide for media coverage of the electoral process. Moreover, they stressed the importance of providing journalists with adequate logistical support to facilitate their work. The creation of a professional master's degree in electoral media coverage was also proposed.
Communication Minister Mohamed Bouslimani highlighted the significance of responsible media coverage in the upcoming elections. He emphasized that media outlets have a crucial role in shaping public opinion and promoting civic engagement. Bouslimani also stressed the need for media professionals to adhere to criteria of credibility and transparency in their reporting. The minister's remarks underscored the government's commitment to ensuring a free and fair electoral process.
The study day also featured presentations from academics and experts. Professor Lahcen Zeghidi from ANIE emphasized the importance of professional and responsible media coverage in promoting electoral participation. He noted that national media outlets have a critical role to play in ensuring the success of the local elections. Meanwhile, Professor Mohammed Ahmed Tayeb from the University of Algiers discussed the challenges of balancing sensationalism and professional ethics in media coverage of electoral campaigns.
The role of digital media in electoral coverage was also discussed during the study day. Professor Karim Belkaci highlighted the need for digital media outlets to prioritize fact-checking and verification to combat disinformation. He emphasized that access to accurate information is essential for effective media coverage. Belkaci's remarks underscored the challenges posed by digital media in the electoral process.
Other experts, including Professor Chahrazed Damed, discussed the challenges faced by journalists in covering electoral campaigns. She warned about the risks of disinformation and the importance of adhering to journalistic standards. The study day also featured workshops led by university professors, which provided a platform for participants to engage in discussions and share experiences.
The Algerian government has taken steps to ensure that the media plays a responsible and constructive role in the upcoming local elections. The study day on "Media and 2026 Local Elections" demonstrated the authorities' commitment to promoting a free and fair electoral process. Key recommendations from the study day include the development of a guide for media coverage and the creation of a professional master's degree in electoral media coverage.
Key points
- The Algerian government emphasizes the importance of responsible media coverage in promoting electoral participation.
- A study day on "Media and 2026 Local Elections" resulted in recommendations to enhance media coverage of the electoral process.
- Experts stress the need for professional and responsible media coverage to combat disinformation and promote civic engagement.
