Mauritania's High Authority for Press and Visual Communication, known as Al Akhbar, has published a list of media institutions that have met the required professional standards. A total of 36 institutions, including television channels, print newspapers, and online media outlets, have been deemed to have met the acceptable level of professional and institutional standards. This classification is based on a technical evaluation of the national media landscape in 2026.
The evaluation process involved reviewing reports from a survey of the national media landscape in 2026, as well as reports on the performance of national audiovisual institutions from 2025 to 2026. The authority also considered the technical evaluation of the content of electronic websites and data from a platform for managing applications for public support through the Public Support Fund for Private Press.
In addition to the 36 institutions that have met the standards, the authority has identified 18 institutions that are in the process of completing the required criteria. The authority's decision was based on a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, including the professional and institutional standards imposed by relevant laws in Mauritania.
The High Authority for Press and Visual Communication emphasized that this classification is not static and will be reviewed periodically. The authority's head has been tasked with implementing the decision. The list of compliant institutions includes a range of media outlets, such as television channels, print newspapers, and online media institutions.
The evaluation process also took into account data from the professional register of journalists and media professionals in Mauritania who have applied for a professional press card. The authority's decision aims to promote professionalism and quality in the country's media sector.
According to the High Authority for Press and Visual Communication, the classification is intended to ensure that media institutions operate within a framework of professional and institutional standards. The authority plays a crucial role in regulating the media sector and promoting high-quality journalism in Mauritania.
The release of the list is seen as a significant step towards promoting transparency and accountability in the country's media sector. The High Authority for Press and Visual Communication will continue to monitor the media landscape and review the classification of media institutions periodically.
Key points
- The High Authority for Press and Visual Communication has identified 36 media institutions that meet professional standards in Mauritania.
- A further 18 institutions are in the process of completing the required criteria.
- The classification will be reviewed periodically to ensure compliance with professional and institutional standards.
