Mauritania's private press association has expressed hope that the recent classification of media institutions by the High Authority for Press and Audiovisual will help regulate the sector and address existing imbalances. The association stated that the classification, which is based on professional standards, is a step towards organizing the sector and controlling the categorization of institutions. This development comes after the association reviewed the decision and its underlying criteria.
The press association emphasized the need for prior consultation with serious professional stakeholders in the sector before making such decisions. This, they argue, will ensure that their experiences and observations are taken into account, and that institutions have the right to appeal if they feel their classification is unfair or does not reflect their performance. The association also welcomed the High Authority's assurance that the announced list is preliminary and subject to periodic review and evaluation.
The High Authority for Press and Audiovisual, known as "HABA", had previously announced a list of 36 media institutions that met the required professional standards. These institutions include television channels, print newspapers, and online media outlets. An additional 18 institutions were listed as being in the process of completing the necessary criteria. The press association has called on its members and other media professionals to engage positively with the classification decision.
The association urged HABA to expedite the process of issuing professional press cards and organizing accreditation for attending press conferences and official events. They also advocated for the use of clear and fair criteria in distributing funds from the advertising fund. This, they argue, will promote the development of professional media and ensure the continuity of deserving institutions.
The press association's statement highlights the need for regulation and improvement in the Mauritanian media sector. They stressed that the classification decision should be seen as an opportunity to enhance professionalism and consolidate institutional practices. The association also encouraged its members to contribute to the development of classification and evaluation criteria.
HABA's classification decision aims to promote professionalism and accountability in the media sector. The High Authority's move has been welcomed by the press association, which sees it as a step towards addressing existing imbalances and promoting the development of the sector. The association's statement reflects the hopes and expectations of the Mauritanian media community.
The classification of media institutions by HABA is seen as a significant development in the Mauritanian media landscape. The press association's response highlights the need for continued dialogue and collaboration between media stakeholders and regulatory bodies. The sector is expected to benefit from the implementation of clear and fair criteria for media classification and evaluation.
Key points
- The Mauritanian press association has welcomed the classification of media institutions by the High Authority for Press and Audiovisual.
- The classification aims to promote professionalism and accountability in the media sector.
- The press association has called for the use of clear and fair criteria in distributing funds from the advertising fund.
