Fourth International Conference on Communication & Media Studies

Abstract

Contrary to the view that technological development would weaken the socio-political bases of authoritarian regimes, many recent studies emphasize the resilience of such regimes and their capabilities to adopt to the new media environment. Some scholars even propose that the new developments in media benefit the authoritarian regimes, more than the citizens and, therefore, facilitate their survival. In regards the situation in Middle Eastern countries, scholars emphasized the democratic role of media at the start of the Arab Uprisings; however, it took just a few years to convert their optimistic views to much more cynical ones. As this study shows, the media situation in the Middle East is deteriorating rapidly and there are no signs of improvement. Further, this deterioration is believed to be a worldwide phenomenon, rather than being confined to the Middle East. This research has two aims. First, with reference to some reports published by non-governmental organizations on media freedom, the degree of deterioration in the media environment in the Middle East is clarified. To do this, I compare the Middle Eastern case with that of other regions. Second, analysis of the methods historically used to control media explains the way authoritarian regimes adapt to the new media environment. This study serves as an opportunity to consider the current relationship between media and authoritarianism.