L’ANIRA met en garde contre la prolifération de pratiques médiatiques non-professionnelles portant atteinte à la conscience citoyenne
The National Independent Authority for Audiovisual Regulation (ANIRA) in Algeria has issued a stern warning regarding the increasing prevalence of unprofessional media practices among certain television channels, which undermine public consciousness and jeopardize national efforts against charlatanism and witchcraft. In a recent communiqué, ANIRA expressed deep concern and dissatisfaction with these media behaviors, emphasizing their detrimental influence on citizen awareness and their role in perpetuating superstition.
ANIRA specifically cited incidents involving several channels. It noted with regret that Ennahar TV aired a controversial statement during its « Paparazzi » program, where a well-known artist claimed to be a victim of witchcraft by peers aimed at sabotaging his career. This was seen as a blatant exploitation of citizens’ emotions and as a crude investment in superstition for commercial gain.
Additionally, ANIRA highlighted the airing of an episode from « Rak fi Tahkik » by Echourouk News TV, where a poorly informed guest irresponsibly claimed that Western countries owe their advancements to the exploitation of djinns. Such statements, according to ANIRA, lack logic and reason, promote superstitious discourse contrary to scientific understanding and religious values, and violate public service requirements.
Further compounding the issue, an interview on El Hayat TV promoted scientifically unproven concepts without using qualified experts, demonstrating a total disregard for objectivity. ANIRA stated that these programs exploit human suffering, aiming primarily to boost viewership. They not only discredit the intelligence of citizens but also run afoul of Law 23-20 governing audiovisual activity, particularly Article 32, which mandates adherence to professional rules of ethics and prohibits the misuse of religion in broadcasting.
Reiterating its role in safeguarding public opinion against misinformation, ANIRA condemned these professional lapses and warned audiovisual institutions against succumbing to such dangerous trends. The lack of minimum preparation and the inadequate qualifications of some presenters contribute significantly to the propagation of dubious social narratives under the guise of expert commentary.
The authority also emphasized the serious nature of the content produced by these programs, which not only propagate charlatanism but also instill doubt and fear within Algerian families. This approach raises alarm about cultural and educational decline, fostering a reliance on superstition instead of promoting critical thought and a rational understanding of religion.
Further noting the potentially destructive social consequences of such media content, ANIRA pointed out that these practices damage the national press’s reputation and, whether intentionally or not, serve agendas that could undermine the societal consciousness of Algeria.
Following consultations with the legal representatives of the mentioned channels, ANIRA demanded an end to unprofessional practices and urged a ban on any form of media folklorization. It called on audiovisual establishments to invest seriously in training their journalists to enhance media performance and ensure responsible content delivery.
ANIRA reiterated that failure to comply with the established guidelines could result in administrative sanctions imposed by the authority as per the provisions of Title VIII of the law governing audiovisual activity.
In summary, ANIRA’s firm response reflects a broader commitment to maintaining the integrity of Algerian media against the rising tide of superficial and misleading content that endangers public understanding and cultural values. The authority’s call for professional standards and responsibility aims to foster a more informed and rational public discourse in the audiovisual landscape.
