In a context of tense diplomatic relations, two French journalists were recently expelled from Morocco for working without authorization. The expulsion raises questions about press freedom and media independence in the country as well as restrictions on foreign journalists.
The journalists in question, Quentin Muller and Thérèse Di Campo, had been in Casablanca for a few days when they were arrested by plainclothes police officers and taken by force to the airport to be returned to France. Moroccan authorities justified this measure by claiming that journalists did not have the necessary authorizations to work in the country. However, according to Quentin Muller and Thérèse Di Campo, authorizations are rarely granted to foreign journalists, which raises the question of the real desire to open the country to the international press.
This is not the first time that French journalists have faced difficulties when trying to cover sensitive subjects in Morocco. Indeed, several French newspapers were criticized by the Moroccan media for their coverage of the earthquake which struck the Al Haouz region last September. These media criticize French newspapers for having propagated a negative image of the country, emphasizing economic and social difficulties as well as the shortcomings of the Moroccan security system.
This recent expulsion raises concerns about press freedom in Morocco. Many journalists and human rights defenders denounced the measure as an attempt to stifle the critical and independent voice of the media. The question also arises as to whether Morocco seeks to control the narrative of its image abroad by limiting the access of foreign journalists to certain sensitive areas or controversial subjects.
On social networks, many voices were raised to demand the expulsion of all French journalists from Moroccan territory. This situation reflects growing tension between the two countries and raises broader questions about press freedom and the role of journalists in society. It is important to preserve freedom of expression and allow journalists to do their work independently, in order to guarantee an open and balanced debate in the public space.