Title: Morocco expels French journalists: a new manifestation of diplomatic tension
Introduction :
In a new tense incident between France and Morocco, two French journalists were recently expelled from the kingdom, sparking strong reactions. While the Moroccan authorities justify this measure by highlighting the absence of work authorization, the journalists concerned affirm that these authorizations are rarely issued. This expulsion raises questions about press freedom and the limits of media coverage in Morocco, as well as diplomatic relations between the two countries.
An expulsion under the pretext of work authorization:
Quentin Muller and Thérèse Di Campo, two French journalists, were brutally arrested and unceremoniously expelled from Morocco. The Moroccan authorities justify this expulsion by the absence of work authorization for journalists in the territory. However, both journalists point out that these permits are rarely issued, raising questions about their actual accessibility. It is also important to note that many foreign journalists covered the recent Al Haouz earthquake without prior authorization.
The real reasons for the expulsion:
According to Quentin Muller and Thérèse Di Campo, the expulsion could also be linked to the subject of their work. They were investigating economic and social violence and the security system in Morocco. It is possible that the Moroccan government viewed their work as criticism of its regime, which would have motivated their expulsion. Furthermore, several French newspapers are also criticized by the Moroccan media for their coverage of the Al Haouz earthquake, accused of propagating a miserable vision of the kingdom.
Diplomatic reactions and tensions:
The expulsion of these French journalists sparked strong reactions on social networks, with voices calling for the expulsion of all French journalists from Morocco. This highlights the growing tensions between France and Morocco on the diplomatic level. While relations between the two countries had already been tense for almost a year, this incident only worsened the situation.
Conclusion :
The expulsion of French journalists in Morocco raises concerns about press freedom and freedom of expression in the country. The difficulty in obtaining work permits for foreign journalists raises questions about the transparency and objectivity of media coverage in Morocco. This expulsion is also a further sign of growing diplomatic tensions between France and Morocco.