A book titled, “Freedom of the Press in the Absence of Democracy in the Arab World," by Dr. Fadl Talal al-Ameri, was recently published by Hala Publishing House. The book's five chapters analyze the constitutionally granted right of a free press and how this right is applied in reality. The book also examines how a free press creates a fruitful public opinion able to develop ideas, programs and policies. The book explores the issue of authority versus freedom of expression. Ameri also discusses how Arab media was once just responsible for transmitting news but is now news in and of itself. This is because Arab media is often biased, used as a tool by the state and as a way of defending certain ideological positions. Ameri added that certain developments in communication, especially the start of satellite and broadcasting, led to an increase in the number of Arab satellite television channels and an increase in the quality of the services, production values and forms of technology. Other media outlets, however, suffered, leading to disagreements concerning the role of the media in the Arab world. While there were calls for the media to play a more active role in all spheres of life, contributing to guiding, educating and developing society, others rejected this. They argue that the media should just transmit news in an objective manner, making it possible for the reader to reach his or her own conclusion. Regardless of the pros and cons of each stance, what really happens is more complicated. The book discusses several questions including: Is the media just a way of entertainment, or a way to transfer news, information and opinions? Should its role go beyond that and be responsible of providing guidance and contributing to societal development? Does it even have the freedom to pursue that role? The book discusses the abstract concept of freedom of the press as well important theories about freedom of expression. It also discusses the principles behind the organization of Arab radio and television, and how this impacts the freedom of broadcasting. The book allows the reader to compare the laws with what happens in reality, and how this affects a person's freedom of opinion and expression.
