Free Media
Free Media is a private mass media publishing company headquartered in Casablanca, Morocco. The company is known for its independent editorial stance and focus on socio-political issues within Moroccan society. Free Media publishes content in both Arabic and French, and is particularly noted for its role in fostering public debate and press freedom in the country.
History
[edit]Free Media was founded in the early 2000s with the objective of producing high-quality journalism. It gained attention for launching bold and investigative publications that tackled sensitive political and social issues.[1]
Publications
[edit]Nichane
[edit]Nichane was an Arabic-language weekly news magazine launched in 2006 by Free Media. The magazine focused on Moroccan society, culture, and current affairs and gained popularity for its candid tone. In December 2006, it was temporarily banned by Moroccan authorities for publishing jokes deemed offensive to Islam. The magazine resumed publication but eventually ceased operations in January 2010 due to sustained political pressure and an advertising boycott, which led to financial difficulties.[2]
TelQuel
[edit]TelQuel is a French-language weekly magazine launched in 2001 by Free Media. It focuses on political, economic, and cultural topics and is known for its investigative reporting and liberal editorial stance. TelQuel has published several critical articles about the Moroccan government, which led to tensions with state authorities.[1]
Significance
[edit]Free Media has played a significant role in the evolution of Morocco’s media landscape. Its commitment to editorial independence and open discourse has positioned it as a leader in promoting media pluralism and freedom of expression in the region.
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b Media, Common (2011-09-08). "The Ups and Downs of Two Pioneering Magazines". Nieman Reports. Retrieved 2025-05-06.
- ^ "Magazine banned over religious jokes". Committee to Protect Journalists. 2006-12-22. Retrieved 2025-05-06.
External links
[edit]- TelQuel official website (in French)