Moroccan press, rights groups plan nationwide protests over new Press Council law

Moroccan Media Unions To Rally Against 'Rushed' Press Law

Nationwide protests planned in response to controversial legislation.

Dozens of Moroccan press unions, publishers’ associations, and human rights groups announced plans for nationwide protests Saturday, denouncing a new law reorganizing the country’s National Press Council. In a joint statement, the organizations condemned the legislation as being “pushed through parliament at record speed” without meaningful consultation with journalists, media organizations, or civil society.

They argue the new law significantly weakens press freedom and will undermine the council's role in safeguarding journalistic independence.

"The government has disregarded the voices of those who are directly affected by this law," said one representative from a prominent press union. "We will not stand idly by while our rights are eroded."