New legislative package for Social Communication under debate at ECA

On April 15th of this year, the School of Communication and Arts (ECA) of Eduardo Mondlane University (UEM) hosted a round table discussion in the ECA's main hall, commemorating Mozambican Journalist's Day. This event, which took place on Wednesday, focused on the advancements and challenges of the new legislative package for Social Communication in the digital age. The Director of ECA, Professor Dr. Ezra Chambal Nhampoca, highlighted the contribution of the journalistic profession to the promotion of press freedom. In turn, the Vice-Rector for Administration and Resources, Professor Dr. Mohsin Sidat, emphasized the University's contribution to the training of journalists and the role they play in "clarifying and disseminating information from various areas, including health," for the development of society, highlighting journalists as a fundamental communication vehicle for the understanding and dissemination of complex information in a clear and accessible way.

The president of MISA Mozambique, journalist Jeremias Langa, noted in his presentation the challenges associated with the approval of the package, given that the discussion process began two decades ago. Reference was also made to the current situation regarding limitations on press freedom and disinformation in the context of the information society.

Journalist Tomás Vieira Mário explained that the new legislative package approved by the Government translates, in practice, into a significant change in the model for regulating the media. "The fundamental principle of the reform consists of removing the State from the direct regulation of media outlets, enabling the creation of an autonomous and independent regulatory body."

According to the journalist, this separation aims to strengthen press freedom, reduce government interference, and ensure a more pluralistic and transparent media environment aligned with the democratic demands of the digital age.

Meanwhile, speaker Sílvia Nhadhwate, a legal expert from GABINFO, focused her presentation on explaining the meaning and scope of the new legal framework for Social Communication. The specialist emphasized that, although the law represents a significant step forward, it still presents some limitations in its practical application, demonstrating the need for continued debate and refinement of the legal framework as the sector evolves.

The meeting was attended by students, teachers and professionals from the sector, with the purpose of discussing the impact of legal reforms on the practice of journalism. This context is characterized by the expansion of digital platforms, the accelerated circulation of information and the growth of the phenomenon of disinformation.

Furthermore, a point of reflection emerged regarding the regulatory entity foreseen in the new legislation. In accordance with the positions presented, Tomás Vieira Mário argued that the new legal package establishes the creation of an autonomous regulator, removing the State from the direct regulation of the media. Conversely, speaker Sílvia Nhadhwate drew attention to the fact that this entity is not yet effectively created and operational. The observation made demonstrated a gap between the approved legal framework and its practical application. This evidence reinforced the importance of the continuity of the institutionalization process.

The session also addressed the introduction of the professional journalist's card, considered a substantial improvement for the appreciation and professionalization of journalistic activity. However, commentator Afonso Chavo warned that the measure may also bring challenges, especially for professionals who have not practiced the activity continuously for long periods—estimated at around ten years—who may face difficulties in accessing or maintaining this formal recognition.

The session was moderated by Micas António, a professor at the same faculty, who led the debate and concluded with an appeal for continued dialogue between the university and communication professionals.