appel à adapter le système de formation aux mutations numériques
Summary of the 4th Regional Meeting of Journalists and Media Professionals in Algiers
The fourth and final regional meeting for journalists and media professionals concluded on Monday in Algiers, resulting in crucial recommendations aimed at enhancing the media training system to adapt to ongoing digital transformations. Organized by the Ministry of Communication, the meeting highlighted several key areas of concern and development for the media landscape.
Key Recommendations
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Media Training Enhancement: Participants emphasized the urgent need to develop and modernize the media training system. This involves adjusting to professional and digital changes, improving ethical standards, and guiding content creation.
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Digital Transformation Strategies: The meeting underscored the necessity for modernization of academic programs and ongoing training for journalists, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics. There was a strong push for increased investments in digital infrastructure to achieve media sovereignty through the creation of national applications and verification departments to combat misinformation.
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Implementation of Ethical Standards: There is a call to expedite the activation of a High Council for Ethics and Journalism to safeguard journalistic integrity and provide better access to information. An electronic platform with a comprehensive database was suggested to facilitate this process.
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Unified National Strategy: Participants highlighted the importance of developing a cohesive national strategy that includes contributions from various media entities. Establishing a national body to oversee the strategy’s implementation was also noted as essential.
- Legal and Social Protections for Journalists: The recommendations included calls to enhance legal and social safeguards for journalists. This involves accelerating the establishment of a specific status for journalists, recognizing journalism as a hazardous profession.
Government Response
Minister of Communication, Mohamed Meziane, remarked that the recommendations reflect a comprehensive effort to address the realities and values of the journalism profession. He assured that these recommendations would be submitted to President Abdelmadjid Tebboune for further deliberation and decision-making.
Addressing Misinformation
Meziane also addressed the challenges posed by rumors and misleading content, attributing them to a "communication deficit." He urged media professionals to take proactive steps in countering unofficial content that lacks accuracy and objectivity. Furthermore, he mentioned an incoming strategy focused on specialization in training journalists.
Workshops and Discussions
The meeting featured four workshops that discussed topics such as the new legal framework governing the media sector, media ethics, the state of audiovisual and written press in the age of AI and 5G, and the role of institutional communication in promoting Algeria’s image. Each session sought to explore the future-oriented skills necessary for journalists in an evolving media landscape.
Conclusion
The recommendations from this fourth regional meeting represent a vital step towards evolving Algeria’s media practices in response to digital advancements. By enhancing training, addressing ethical concerns, and improving legal protections, the media sector aims to foster a more informed and engaged public, while simultaneously combating misinformation.
