National Association of Media and Publishers Welcomes Press Council Reform Proposal

The ANME reiterated that it supports a comprehensive reform plan for the sector and considers Bill 26.25 a crucial step toward filling the institutional void, strengthening self-regulation mechanisms, and preserving the independence of the profession in the face of potential threats to its credibility.

The association also believes that the overall context of this reform, marked by strong public debate, is a positive signal toward the implementation of an ambitious modernization strategy that respects constitutional principles such as freedom of expression, ethics, and the right to autonomous organization.

Regarding the draft law on the status of professional journalists, the ANME noted that it comes at a time when media practices are undergoing profound changes and digital platforms are gaining power, making it necessary to update the legal framework and clarify roles and responsibilities.

The organization made several key points:

The text under review is the result of broad consultations with major players in the sector and represents progress toward securing the independence and credibility of the profession, especially in response to content produced by non-professionals on social media and platforms such as TikTok and YouTube.

The ANME nevertheless expressed regret over the sometimes polemical tone of certain exchanges during the governmental process, considering that it overshadowed the core issue: strengthening democratic governance and finding a balance among the different components of the media landscape.

The association believes that these reforms are an essential tool for ending the drift and informality that sometimes undermine journalistic practice.

It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting this dynamic through a program of assistance for serious media companies and professional journalists, based on a participatory approach.

The ANME also called for collective vigilance against the risks of impersonation and disinformation, whether spread by so-called “influencers,” certain forms of activist journalism, or media outlets used for political purposes.

The organization emphasized that the provisions concerning representation within the National Press Council should be seen as a means to enhance the effectiveness of the reform, whether through members elected by journalists or appointed by publishers and qualified public figures.

It also highlighted the structuring role of well-organized and solid press companies, which it sees as a driving force in raising professional standards and encouraging smaller outlets to adopt more sustainable economic models.

Finally, the association argued that the success of the reform depends on recognizing the inseparable link between editorial independence and the financial health of media companies, while denouncing attempts to stigmatize certain press groups.

For the ANME, the core issue remains the shift from a disorderly model to a more credible and better-regulated professional ecosystem, in the interest of the entire profession and the public.

Editorial team/le7tv