Practicing Journalism Between Legal Controls and Ethical Responsibility Under Media Legislation in Algeria

Abstract

This research paper seeks to clarify the legal controls and ethical responsibility forpracticing journalism under Algerian media legislation. Journalists are granted rights in exchange for their commitment to adhering to journalistic ethics. They are also required to implement the provisions of the law, which stipulates that the general principles of the state, public order, and society must not be violated, and that the rights and freedoms of individuals must be respected. Meanwhile, regulatory texts stipulate that journalists must adhere to the principles of ethical responsibility stemming from their moral and professional conscience and adhere to social responsibility toward their community. Through our reading of Media Law 12-05, the study concludes that the practice of journalism and the right to expression are constitutionally and legally guaranteed. This guarantees the protection of media activity, which is contingent upon journalists’ implementation of the provisions of the 2012 Media Law. The articles and clauses of the law reveal the means and tools of the journalistic profession and its ethics, ensuring journalists’ freedom and regulating their journalistic practice to achieve honest journalistic performance.