Rowman & Littlefield Publishers Arabic Media: Competitive Soft Power and Strategic Support for Liberalism: Arabic Media as a Catalyst for Liberalism

Following the Arab Spring, some Arab autocrats are seeking to promote reform to remedy the causes of popular discontent and remain in power, understanding that this means enabling civil society, reforming the economy, legitimizing pluralism, and instilling equality under the rule of law. Some Arab liberals believe that by harnessing the media's pervasive influence to introduce ideals and policy goals, they can catalyze other segments of society to embrace and act on them. This would help shore up the stability of Arab countries that happens to be American allies, by opening their political systems gradually and vesting the majority population in the welfare of the state. This also represents an opportunity from an American standpoint. By pursuing an alternative strategy of partnership with existing indigenous media outlets, the U.S. can reach a large audience and help strengthen the hand of liberal reformists in a manner that also advances Washington's own policy goals. Looking at Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt, and Algeria, the chapters describe the political situation, the major players, the trends in media activity, the (limited) role of the US in the political and media landscape, and the opportunities for action. Based on extensive in-country investigation, the book informs a smarter American communication strategy and promotes a new means of competitive soft power in the region.