Madjeda Zouine, an Algerian journalist and activist, has redefined her career by merging journalism with activism. After working in mainstream media, she joined Femmes en Communication and its radio station Voix des Femmes in 2017, a platform dedicated to feminist issues. For Zouine, this marked a pivotal moment in her life, as she transitioned from merely having a job to embracing a profound commitment to women’s rights. However, this commitment is often misunderstood in Algeria, where journalists are frequently perceived as activists first and journalists second. In a country where human rights, particularly women’s rights, remain precarious, feminist journalism occupies a crucial niche between activism and information. Zouine criticizes the trivialization of violence against women in some Algerian media, where language often justifies rape or murder by blaming the victim. She cites the tragic cases of Chaima and Ryma, young women who were brutally murdered after refusing to comply with societal expectations. Zouine emphasizes that feminist media avoids such harmful narratives and instead focuses on empowering women. Despite societal pressures and financial constraints, Zouine and her colleagues continue their work through platforms like the podcast Laha, which addresses women’s demands and sexual health issues. Additionally, the bilingual Arabic-French magazine La Place-Lblassa, founded in 2020 by Maya Ouabadi, provides a space for women to express themselves freely. Ouabadi highlights the importance of reclaiming the term ‘feminist’ and using it openly to inspire young women. The magazine serves as both an information tool and a source of inspiration, showcasing role models and challenging societal norms. The history of feminist publications in Algeria dates back to the colonial period, with magazines like El Djazairia and L’Action paving the way. However, many of these publications disappeared during the civil war in the 1990s. Today, researchers like Awel Haouati are working to preserve the history of women’s struggles in Algeria, ensuring that the legacy of feminist activism is not forgotten. Through their efforts, they aim to educate future generations about the social and political battles that have shaped Algerian society.
