Research Articles

Arab Citizen Journalism in Action: Challenging Mainstream Media, Authorities and Media Laws

Author: Naila Hamdy (American University of Cairo, Egypt)

  • Arab Citizen Journalism in Action: Challenging Mainstream Media, Authorities and Media Laws

    Research Articles

    Arab Citizen Journalism in Action: Challenging Mainstream Media, Authorities and Media Laws

    Author:

Abstract

Arab citizens have adopted the blogging technology of the internet to create a venue for alternate viewpoints in a manner similar to their global counterparts. Initially a handful of bloggers, writing mostly in English and reflecting a Western flavour in their content, initiated the Arab blogosphere. They have since been joined by thousands of Arabic blogs. Their impact has been noted, whether directly on politics and media or in their ability to enable civil society by providing instant networking and expanding the space for freedom of expression. They have also created an unexpected challenge to their governments, causing inconsistent reactions. This article analyzes the region’s laws, regulations and the methods used to govern those nationals who choose to join the growing number of global citizen journalists, and how they often learn to defy those rules. The primary focus has been the case of Egypt’s blogs due to their influential role in the regional blogosphere.

Keywords: media challenge, internet laws, citizen journalism, Arab bloggers

How to Cite:

Hamdy, N., (2017) “Arab Citizen Journalism in Action: Challenging Mainstream Media, Authorities and Media Laws”, Westminster Papers in Communication and Culture 6(1), 92-112. doi: https://doi.org/10.16997/wpcc.110

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Published on
13 Jun 2017
Peer Reviewed