In a context of tense diplomatic relations, two French journalists were recently expelled from the Kingdom of Morocco. This decision provoked numerous reactions and reignited the debate on press freedom in the country.
Quentin Muller and Thérèse Di Campo, two French journalists, had been in Casablanca for several days when they were arrested by Moroccan police and immediately taken to the airport to be returned to France. The Moroccan authorities justified this expulsion by citing the fact that the journalists were working without authorization. However, according to those concerned, work permits are rarely issued to foreign journalists in Morocco.
What makes this expulsion all the more disturbing is that the journalists had chosen to go to Morocco to investigate economic and social violence as well as the country’s security system. They therefore suspect that the real reason for their expulsion would be linked to their ongoing investigation. Additionally, several French newspapers were also criticized by Moroccan media for their coverage of the Al Haouz earthquake. They were accused of propagating a miserabilist vision of the kingdom, suggesting that the country was incapable of helping the victims.
This situation sparked a wave of indignation on social networks, with many people calling for the expulsion of all French journalists present in Morocco. This raises the question of press freedom in the country, and the ability of journalists to exercise their profession independently and safely.
The expulsion highlights the difficulties journalists face when trying to cover sensitive or controversial topics in countries where press freedom is often restricted. She also highlights the importance of supporting and protecting journalists who strive to report the truth, even when doing so makes local authorities uncomfortable.
In conclusion, the expulsion of the two French journalists from Morocco raises questions about press freedom in the country. It highlights the difficulties journalists face when trying to do their work independently and objectively. It is essential to support and protect these professionals, in order to guarantee free and transparent information for all.