From The Rio Times · Contributing Reporter · · 2m
Morocco Media Landscape Explained
Morocco's media system mixes state control, palace influence, and digital growth.
In brief
Morocco's media system mixes state control, palace influence, and digital growth. Morocco's media landscape combines state-run broadcasters, palace-linked owners, and a large online audience, with press freedom ranking 105th in 2026. Originally reported by The Rio Times.
Key Facts
Morocco media is a mix of state-run broadcasters, palace-linked owners, family-run news sites and a large online audience.
Press Freedom
Morocco ranked 105th of 180 countries in the 2:026 press freedom index, a gain of 15 places on 2025.
State Broadcasters
The public group SNRT runs the state channels and is absorbing 2M and Medi1.
Online Audience
Morocco had 35.5 million internet users in October 2025, or 92.2% of the population.
Who Governs
King Mohammed VI named Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri head of government on 29 September 2026, and her cabinet took office on 16 October 2026.
How the System Is Built
Morocco is a constitutional monarchy under King Mohammed VI, with Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri appointed head of government on 29 September 2026.
Public Broadcasting
SNRT, the national radio and television company, took 88% of public media funding in 2017.
Private Print
Arabic-language and French-language dailies and weeklies, many owned by business figures or investment groups.
Digital News
78% of surveyed Moroccans got news online in 2025, with YouTube (49%) and Facebook (47%) leading.
Press Freedom and Law
RSF ranked Morocco 105th of 180 countries in its 2026 press freedom index with a score of 50.55.
Press Council Reform
The press council bill was approved in July 2026, with a new council elected on 21 September 2026.
State and Palace Influence
Influence runs through ownership, money and the courts rather than formal censorship.
What It Means for US Readers
Investors should treat state broadcasters as official voices and check corporate news against filings.
What Is Not Known
It is not confirmed whether SNRT has completed the takeover of 2M and Medi1.
FAQs
RSF ranked Morocco 105th of 180 countries in 2026, up 15 places from 2025, with a score of 50.55.
The Big Picture
Morocco's media landscape combines state control, palace influence, and digital growth.
The takeaway
Morocco's media landscape combines state-run broadcasters, palace-linked owners, and a large online audience, with press freedom ranking 105th in 2026.
