The Senegalese media landscape is undergoing a profound transformation. On Wednesday, January 7, 2026, the Council of Ministers adopted the bill creating the National Media Regulatory Council (CNRM). This new authority, which replaces the National Audiovisual Regulatory Council (CNRA), marks a decisive step in modernizing information governance in Senegal.

The Minister of Communication, Telecommunications, and Digital Affairs, Alioune Sall, presented this reform as a necessary response to technological advancements. According to him, it represents a modernized regulatory framework for free, responsible, and credible media in the digital age. He reassured stakeholders in the sector, emphasizing that this is an adaptive reform, not a step backward, advocating an inclusive rather than punitive approach.

A necessary extension for digital platforms

The ministry's assessment is clear: a law conceived in 2006 can no longer meet the challenges of 2026. Whereas the CNRA was essentially limited to radio and television, the CNRM is now expanding its scope to the entire information value chain.

Online press, content creators, digital platforms, and foreign media accessible in Senegal are now included within the regulatory framework. The minister emphasizes the principle of technological neutrality: in identical public spaces, responsibilities must be the same for all content providers.

Regulate to protect, not to censor

In response to concerns about freedom of expression, the bill reaffirms that the National Council for Media Regulation (CNRM) acts as a shield for both citizens and professionals. Regulating is not censorship, but protection, the ministry's statement emphasizes. The objective is twofold: to curb abuses that infringe upon human dignity and to effectively combat disinformation in order to guarantee a healthy public debate.

The government is counting on transparent governance to establish the credibility of the CNRM. The Council will have strictly defined powers of oversight and sanction, guaranteeing respect for the rights of the defense and the proportionality of the measures taken.

In conclusion, Minister Alioune Sall reaffirms that responsible journalism is a pillar of democracy. This reform is therefore intended as an instrument for strengthening the social contract, aiming to reinforce public trust in the media while preserving the stability of democratic debate in Senegal.