Arab Media: Al Jazeera in the Time of Revolution

Qatar Winter Global Seminar, Doha: December 28, 2012-January 12, 2013

Professor ImedLabidi

Department of Cultural Studies & Comparative Literature

University of Minnesota

Until January 14, 2011 the idea of eradicating a dictatorial regime in the Arab world with a peaceful popular uprising was unconceivable. Disempowered, hopeless, and totally isolated from their political system, Tunisian men and women took off to the streets, demanded change, fought against police forces, captured incredibly violent scenes of police brutality on their video, and shared them with the world. Many critics, academics, and Middle Eastern experts argue that the success of the Tunisian revolution and the eruption of many similar uprisings immediately after in Egypt, Bahrain, Jordan, Yemen, and Libya would not have been possible without the participation of Arab media and in particular Al Jazeera network. Hence, this global seminar takes place on the campus of Qatar University in the city of Doha and only a few miles away from Al Jazeera’s studios.

We will read about the evolution of Arab media over the last decade, study their contribution to the rise of a new political consciousness in the Middle East, and discuss the emerging democratic regimes in countries like Tunisia, Egypt, and Libya. Our primary focus centers on comparatively examining the role of the media in their organic sense as guardians of the public sphere and their impact on political change. Our goal is to determine how the media challenge (or not) the political structure that continues to constrain democratization in Arab countries. In this context, we explore how Arab TV expose corruption and human rights violations, address taboo topics, dissipate information about public dissent, and helpe validate confidence in the people’s will to affect change.

Our learning experience focuses also on Doha, the cultural and commercial heart of the Qatari state and one of the most vibrant cities in the world. Doha has established its position as one of the most important economic powers in the Arab world. Home to many extraordinary cultural initiatives, this city has launched major cultural projects, educational institutions, political centers, schools for art, and the internationally recognized yearly cinema event of Doha’s Tribeca film festival. Together we will visit many Qatari landmarks and travel to many important cultural and historic sites such as Qatar’s National Museum the largest museum of Arab and Islamic history in the world, the Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies, and one of my the most unique topographies of the Arab desert. Our course includes also a visit Al Jazeera’s studios, where we can interact with its personnel, discuss their approach to the production of news, creative programming, and how the ability to provide a new space for political debate have re-energized the public sphere, empowered the masses, and legitimized political activism.

Excursions and Cultural Visits

Doha City:

  • Qatar National Museum
  • The Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies
  • Museum of Arabic Modern Art
  • Qattara Cultural villageknown for the yearly international Tribeca Film Festival, Doha (individual visit recommended)
  • Al Jazeera Studios
  • Qatar Foundation (combines 8 campuses including Qatar University, George Town University, Doha Campus…)
  • The State Mosque of Qatar

Other Important Sites

Local forts:

  • Souk Wakif (ancient city built since 1120) in the city we may not need bus
  • Laffel Dunes
  • Allouloua (the pearl) Island
  • One day swim in the Persian/Arab Gulf

List of Guest Speakers and Topics

Mazhar Al Zobi, Ph.D., University of Minnesota: Oil Politics and Media

(Three more guest speakers TBA)

Readings for the Global Seminar

Prior to the date of departure, students will need to purchase a course packet with introductory literature on cultural differences, Arab culture, Al Jazeera, other important Arab Networks, like Al Arabiya, and Dubai TV, Arab women cultural entrepreneurs and critics, their participation in the transformation of media industry, and details about the current political uprising in many nations in the Arab world. In the course packet, student will also find helpful information about Qataris cultural practices, tips for successful cross cultural communication, and useful information about cultural differences. Video material, documentaries such as Control Room, and films will be used to enrich students’ knowledge and understanding of the region.

Writing Assignments

Students are required to produce a two page critique at the end of the first week in Doha. Students will also keep a journal to document their expectations, impressions, assumptions about Arab perspective on news/media, and cultural discoveries. Dated daily entries have to be documented. A five-page paper analyzing what they consider their most important learning experience while living in Doha (as travelers not tourists) will be required at the end of the trip. Of course, this analysis is not limited to personal commentary on Arab culture or media but can also include topics such comparing Arab media’s modes of production with American networks, preconceived notions about Arab culture, the presence of women on Arab TV, and women in executive positions etc… Students are strongly encouraged to incorporate the readings assigned for this course and any ideas and information they learn from guest speakers.

Grade Division

2- page critique 15%

Attendance and participation 20%

Keeping a Journal 30%

Final academic report 35%

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