Morocco, a model of democratic transition in Arab states, ndi

Morocco is a model of democratic transition and of stability in the Maghreb and in the Arab world at large, said Monday Ms. Maryam Montague, Resident Director of the National Democratic Institute (NDI).

The elections Morocco will hold on September 27 are "very important" and "crucial," she said at the opening of a five-day workshop for Moroccan TV and Radio journalists on election coverage, sponsored by the NDI and the British embassy in Morocco.

Ms. Montague, who called for the Moroccan journalists to fully play their role in fostering the citizens' awareness, said the workshop seeks to consolidate the democratic values in Morocco.

"The Moroccan media are today stronger, more professional and more robust," said British ambassador to Morocco, Haydon Warren Cash, who added "they are proving to be an important tool for consolidating democracy."

The workshop, which runs until September 20, is tailored for Radio and TV journalists and is looking at how to make election-related news stories accessible and relevant.

Experts from South Africa and Canada are working with journalists from RTM, 2M and other stations on effective presentation of stories.

The workshop is focusing on reporting of the election campaign and is using women candidates as practical case studies.