The Mauritanian Journalists' Union has expressed deep concern over the continuation of exclusionary practices within the country's media sector. In a strongly worded statement, the union criticized the previous administration's approach to managing the sector, accusing it of marginalizing independent professional bodies and unions. The union emphasized that the current government's formation of a committee to oversee public support for private media does not absolve the sector of its inherited challenges.
The union's criticism centers on the former Minister of Culture, Hussein Ould Medou, whom they accuse of dismantling the previous consensual representation mechanism in favor of a new association closely aligned with his views. This move, according to the union, led to the exclusion of other professional bodies, particularly those that did not align with the minister's approach. The union claims that this exclusion extended beyond representation within media organizations, affecting their ability to engage in partnerships and initiatives.
The union highlighted that the previous administration's policies resulted in the marginalization of several professional organizations over nearly seven years, creating frustration and a sense of injustice within the national media community. They also accused the former minister of pursuing a systematic policy of exclusion against professional bodies that did not support his views. The union argues that this approach stifled the growth and development of the media sector.
The union demands greater transparency in the allocation of public support for private media, calling for the publication of eligibility criteria, evaluation networks, and distribution mechanisms. They stress that support for private media should not be used as a tool for pressure or reward but rather as a means to strengthen media institutions, ensure economic independence, and promote media pluralism.
The union emphasized that the current Minister of Culture is not personally responsible for the committee's formation, as it was part of the transition process from the previous administration. However, they warned that some practices from the previous administration seem to persist within certain aspects of the current management. The union seeks concrete decisions that would restore dialogue, balance, and freedom of work for professional bodies.
The union's statement also touches on allegations that the former minister used the public support mechanism as a means of control over media institutions and journalists who refused to submit to his influence. The union reaffirms its commitment to defending the independence of the media and promoting a more inclusive and transparent approach to managing the sector.
Key issues at stake include the need for greater transparency in the allocation of public support, the importance of inclusive decision-making processes, and the protection of media independence. The union's call for change reflects broader concerns about the health of the media sector in Mauritania and the need for reforms that promote pluralism and professionalism.
Key points
- The Mauritanian Journalists' Union criticizes past practices of exclusion in the media sector.
- The union demands greater transparency in the allocation of public support for private media.
- The union seeks concrete decisions to restore dialogue, balance, and freedom of work for professional bodies.
