Algeria - December 2023

The People’s National Assembly of Algeria enacted legislation aimed at safeguarding media freedom, repealing the previous ‘press offense’ law and introducing protections for journalists. The new law seeks to modernize the media landscape by regulating print, online, and audio-visual platforms, establishing a robust media system, and promoting professionalism. It emphasizes principles such as freedom of expression and access to information sources, while also providing protection against violence or insult during journalistic activities. Despite these advances, concerns remain about the government's commitment to press freedom, particularly in light of the ongoing detentions of journalists. This legislation is vital in the broader context of democracy and human rights in Algeria; however, its effectiveness will largely depend on its implementation and the government's adherence to the principles it enshrines.

Sources: El Watan, Associated Press, Dzair,  APS