فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
In a highly contentious move, the Moroccan Federation of Newspaper Publishers (FNMJ) has expressed its firm rejection of Joint Ministerial Decision No. 2345.24, signed by the Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication and the Minister Delegate for Budget Affairs. The decision, which sets the criteria for public support for press, publishing, printing, and distribution, has sparked widespread anger among industry professionals.
The Federation considers the decision a threat to the future of national journalism, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and regional press outlets.
In a statement issued following a meeting of its Executive Office on Thursday, December 5, 2024, in Casablanca, the Federation condemned what it called a “blatant exclusion” and “entrenchment of monopolies.” It argued that the decision violates the principles of transparency and equal opportunity stipulated by the Press and Publishing Law. The Federation emphasized that using the revenue criteria of media companies to distribute support was an unjust precedent that threatens the sector’s diversity and could lead to the bankruptcy of many businesses.
The statement also pointed out that while the total amount of public support has increased to 300 million dirhams, nearly half of this funding would go to just four institutions, leaving hundreds of other companies, including long-time beneficiaries, without support. The Federation further criticized the criteria for printing support, which it claims are designed to favor certain institutions, thus excluding veteran printing presses that have historically played a key role in supporting the media sector.
The Federation believes that these decisions reflect a lack of consultation with the legitimate representatives of publishers, including the Moroccan Federation of Newspaper Publishers, which is considered the most representative professional organization in the sector. It argued that the exclusion of its voice is part of an attempt to control the media, describing the decision as contrary to the royal will, which has consistently emphasized the importance of supporting media pluralism and fairly supporting press enterprises.
In conclusion, the Federation announced the launch of a national protest campaign aimed at overturning the joint ministerial decision and the related government decree. It also called for the formation of a national front, comprising all professional organizations, to defend the principles of law, transparency, and fairness in the distribution of support.
source : fesnews media
