Maroc - EURASIAREVIEW.COM - A la une - 11/Sep 22:44

Al-Alam: A Legacy Of Resistance And The Voice Of A Nation – OpEd

In the realm of journalism, few outlets can claim the distinction of being not only a recorder of history but also a maker of it. As the Arabic-language organ of the Istiqlal Party, *Al-Alam* has been just that—a beacon of resistance and a driver of change throughout Morocco's long and arduous struggle for independence and national unity. Since its inception on September 11, 1946, this paper has not only chronicled events but has actively participated in shaping the course of the nation's history. *Al-Alam* emerged during one of the darkest periods in Moroccan history—when the country was still under colonial occupation. The press, often referred to as the memory of its time, was for *Al-Alam* not simply an observer but a key player in Morocco's liberation. From its very first issue, the newspaper committed itself to the fight against the colonial yoke. It was a voice that could not be silenced, a force that rallied the people toward awareness, emancipation, and progress. But what makes *Al-Alam* truly remarkable is that it was not just a mirror to the unfolding historical events; it was a weapon of resistance in itself. Through relentless campaigns, it educated and mobilized the masses, kindling the flames of national consciousness and keeping the dream of independence alive. In the years following the Istiqlal Party's historic Manifesto for Independence on January 11, 1944, *Al-Alam* stood as a platform that reinforced the party's message and worked tirelessly for the reunification of Moroccan territories that had been divided and occupied by colonial powers. Over seventy-eight years later, *Al-Alam* remains an essential pillar of the Moroccan press, reflecting the same steadfast commitment to the country's values and aspirations. This legacy of struggle and perseverance is not merely a relic of the past; it is a living tradition that continues to inspire new generations in their efforts to build a Morocco that is free, unified, and forward-looking. *Al-Alam*'s journey is one of courage, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to the people it serves. It has endured censorship, repression, and countless challenges, yet it remains an enduring symbol of the nation's collective struggle for freedom and dignity. In an era where information is more accessible than ever, the role of independent, historically grounded journalism is all the more crucial. It serves as both a reminder and a warning—that the battles fought by earlier generations should never be forgotten, and that the press must continue to hold power to account, to inspire, and to inform. Today, as we reflect on the seventy-eight years of *Al-Alam*'s contributions, we are reminded of the indelible link between the press and the people's struggle for justice and sovereignty. Its pages, once filled with stories of resistance, now turn toward a future where Morocco stands as a symbol of stability and progress in a region still marked by volatility. More than just a newspaper, *Al-Alam* is a testament to the enduring spirit of a people united in their quest for freedom. Its story is, in many ways, the story of Morocco itself—a nation that has never ceased to fight for its rightful place in the world.