The Role of Al-Safiir in Shaping Arab Political Discourse

Abstract

This study explores the influential role of Al-Safiir, a prominent Arab newspaper, in shaping political discourse within the Arab world from its inception in 1970 until its cessation in 2016. Al-Safiir emerged as a key platform for political dialogue and expression, providing a voice for various socio-political movements across the Arab region. Through a comprehensive analysis of its editorial policies, featured articles, and prominent columnists, this research highlights how Al-Safiir facilitated discussions on critical issues such as nationalism, identity, and social justice, contributing significantly to the political landscape. The newspaper’s commitment to independent journalism allowed it to critique governmental policies and advocate for civil liberties, fostering a culture of public debate and activism. Additionally, the study examines the challenges Al-Safiir faced, including censorship and political repression, and how these obstacles influenced its editorial stance and audience engagement. By employing qualitative content analysis and examining reader responses, this research underscores the newspaper's role in mobilizing public opinion and shaping political consciousness during pivotal moments in Arab history, including the Arab Spring. The findings suggest that Al-Safiir not only reflected existing political sentiments but also played a critical role in shaping the trajectory of political discourse in the region, making it an essential case study for understanding the interplay between media and politics in the Arab world.

Keywords- Al-Safiir, Arab political discourse, independent journalism, media influence, nationalism, social justice, public debate, Arab Spring, censorship, political repression.