Moroccan Government’s Comprehensive Strategy to Support National and Regional Press Enterprises

In a public session held at the House of Representatives on Monday, December 9, 2024, the Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, Mr. Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing a comprehensive strategy to support press enterprises at both national and regional levels. This initiative aims to strengthen the role of media in driving economic and social development.

Minister Bensaid highlighted that national support for press enterprises focuses on major media institutions that meet established national standards. This includes a set of stringent measures to ensure content quality and the continuity of media services. He stated that the objective of this support is to enable national enterprises to maintain their vital role in enriching the media landscape and defending national causes.

Regarding regional and local press enterprises, Bensaid clarified that there is a clear direction toward establishing specific support mechanisms in collaboration with regional councils. He acknowledged the challenges faced by smaller media institutions, which often struggle with limited financial and human resources to meet national standards. “We are working on drafting agreements with regional councils to secure financial support tailored to the needs of local and regional media enterprises,” he noted.

The minister added that this regional support is part of a holistic vision aimed at reinforcing the concept of advanced regionalization by involving regional councils in providing support that aligns with the unique characteristics of each area. He stressed that this initiative would contribute to balancing the roles of major national enterprises with regional ones, ensuring comprehensive media development while promoting cultural and linguistic diversity.

Bensaid pointed out that this approach has garnered broad consensus among parliamentary groups, both from the majority and opposition. “The aim is to regulate the media sector and ensure the fair and effective allocation of public support. This is not merely about providing funds but rather investing in media as a cornerstone of democracy and development,” he asserted.

The minister also underscored the significance of regional and local media in highlighting issues in Morocco’s southern provinces. He praised the efforts of media enterprises in these regions for their dedication to national causes, particularly the Moroccan Sahara issue. He affirmed that the government, under the guidance of King Mohammed VI, continues to implement comprehensive development policies across all provinces, including support for the media sector.

In conclusion, Minister Bensaid emphasized that organizing the media sector and establishing clear standards for support remain top priorities. He noted that the funds allocated for this purpose are public resources that require governance and transparency to ensure the intended outcomes are achieved.

source : fesnews media

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