1. Name: Joumana El-Kadi Title:ManagementofArabicSatelliteNewsChannels:AlJazeeraasan Example Institution: University of the Arts London Country: United Kingdom Date: 2000 Language: English Abstract: Arabic satellite channels are a new experience for Arab viewers, particularly in the field of freedom of speech. To cope with this phenomenon, Arab governments had to contend with their people getting information or discussing subjects that they would not permit on their state television. Since the 1990 Gulf war, Arab governments and wealthy Arab investors have been competing in launching satellite channels with different content. Amidst this growing competition, news remain largely censored or tied to hidden guidelines or agendas imposed by owners in an attempt to avoid clashes with government institutions. Therefore, managing Arabic news channels in an Arab country is a challenging task and requires specific skills. Al Jazeera provides a unique example in this regard. Since its launch in 1996 as an Arabic speaking channel managed by Arabs and addressed primarily to Arab viewers, the channel struggled to maintain it independence and resist pressures from almost all Arab governments. This study shows how Al Jazeera’s management coped with these challenges and how the management succeeded in creating a culture that supports its staff in providing an independent news service.
239
Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter