DR Congo Ushers in New Era for Journalism with National Press Card
A new chapter has begun for journalists in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) with the launch of a national professional press card by the Union Nationale de la Presse du Congo (UNPC). The initiative, unveiled on February 19th in Kinshasa, aims to professionalize the media landscape and combat the growing issue of unqualified individuals posing as journalists.
Combating Imposter Syndrome and Strengthening Media Integrity
The new press card is designed with multiple security features to prevent forgery and ensure authenticity across the DRC. According to Charles Dimandja Wembi, president of the UNPC’s National Card Commission, the card represents a crucial step towards ending amateurism within the profession. This comes at a time when the DRC media environment is facing challenges from individuals falsely claiming journalistic credentials, leading to ethical concerns and a dilution of professional standards.
A Response to Calls for Reform
The introduction of the press card directly addresses recommendation #70 from the Estates-General of the Press. Baudouin Kamanda wa Kamanda, President of the UNPC, described the launch as a “strong signal” indicating a commitment to reforming journalism in the DRC. The initiative is also aligned with the UNPC’s 2024-2028 action plan, focused on completing the reform of the regulatory and institutional framework for media.
More Than Just Identification: Security and Accountability
The benefits extend beyond simply identifying legitimate journalists. The government views the card as a vital tool for ensuring the safety of media professionals and providing better support for their work. Nicolas Lianza, the Director of Cabinet for the Minister of Communication and Media, emphasized that the card will help the government identify journalists, ensuring their security and facilitating assistance. He also stressed that possessing the card carries a responsibility to uphold journalistic ethics and accountability.
Technical Specifications and Security Features
The press card itself is a PVC card incorporating advanced security technologies. These include optical devices, an integrated watermark, a personalized UNPC hologram, and anti-scan/anti-photocopy security ink. It also features a QR code linked to the UNPC database, a unique barcode, and a unique serial number. The card is designed to be durable, resisting humidity, UV rays, scratches, and temperatures up to 80°C.
The “Law Muyaya” and Self-Regulation
This initiative is fully compliant with the Ordinance-Law No. 23/009 of March 13, 2023, known as the “Muyaya Law” concerning press freedom in the DRC. The UNPC’s role in self-regulation is thus strengthened, contributing to a more responsible and ethical media environment.
Cost and Access
The total cost of the press card is $105 USD, broken down as $5 for identification, $50 for the annual contribution, and $50 for retrieval fees.
Did you know?
A key goal of this initiative is to create a publicly accessible digital directory of accredited journalists, enhancing transparency and trust in the DRC media.
FAQ
Q: What is the purpose of the new press card?
A: The card aims to identify legitimate journalists, combat imposters, and professionalize the media sector in the DRC.
Q: How much does the press card cost?
A: The card costs $105 USD, covering identification, annual contribution, and retrieval fees.
Q: What security features are included in the card?
A: The card includes a PVC construction, optical devices, a watermark, a hologram, security ink, a QR code, a barcode, and a unique serial number.
Q: Who is responsible for issuing the press card?
A: The Union Nationale de la Presse du Congo (UNPC) is responsible for issuing the press card.
Q: Is this card legally required to practice journalism in the DRC?
A: The article does not state whether the card is legally required, but it is presented as a key step towards professionalizing the sector and is aligned with recent legislation.
Pro Tip: Journalists in the DRC should contact the UNPC directly for the latest information on the application process and requirements for obtaining the new press card.
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