This episode of the podcast addresses the topic of media and its role in Saudi society, where Omar Al-Jareesi hosts Professor Adwan Al-Ahmari, a media expert and editor-in-chief of “Independent Arabia.” The episode begins by highlighting the relationship between media and celebrities and their influence, discussing issues of superficiality regarding digital transformation and cultural changes in the region. Al-Ahmari expresses his concern over the rising surface-level treatment of important issues, emphasizing the need for government entities to enhance their media capabilities rather than relying on celebrities for promotion.
The discussion also covers the challenges facing the media sector in Saudi Arabia, touching on the role of both official and independent media, as well as the red lines that limit freedom of expression. Al-Ahmari discusses the importance of media in highlighting and defending the Kingdom’s achievements, stating that media should focus on conveying facts rather than merely repeating accomplishments. He also points out the necessity of having specialized journalists in the fields of oil and media in general, criticizing the lack of specialized human resources in this domain.
The discussions also touch on changes in audience behavior, youth interest in digital content, and the importance of direct interaction with them through social media, which poses new challenges for official channels. At the end of the episode, Al-Jareesi poses questions from listeners that reflect inquiries about the future of media in the Kingdom, with Al-Ahmari providing optimistic insights regarding the upcoming transformations.
Problem of Media Content Superficiality
Media content superficiality refers to the decline in depth and quality in media presentation, where some influencers and celebrities tend to deliver shallow content lacking intellectual and cultural dimensions. This raises concerns for some, as they believe that media should play a larger role in deepening the public’s understanding of important issues. For example, you may find a lot of content that primarily focuses on entertainment or superficial matters, leading to neglect of serious discussions about social, cultural, and political issues. On the other hand, official media entities must recognize their role in promoting serious and beneficial content, rather than relying on celebrities for mere promotional purposes.
Superficiality of content does not stop here; it extends to government entities that may allocate their budgets to promotional campaigns without considering the content’s message. This means there is an urgent need to improve media methods and create content that is characterized by credibility and depth, which could contribute to raising public awareness and stimulating critical thinking among the audience.
The Role of Media in Showcasing Achievements
Media is pivotal in informing the public about national achievements, yet it faces significant challenges. One of these challenges lies in how to present these accomplishments attractively and accurately. Media is not just a news transmitter; it should have an active role in shaping the public image. For instance, media can contribute to enhancing national pride by showcasing success stories and innovations that have been achieved in the country.
The media experience during the global health crisis, like the COVID-19 pandemic, illustrates how media can play a crucial role in delivering accurate messages to the public. Media was used to convey precise information about government procedures and health measures, helping to foster trust between citizens and the authorities. Additionally, media can serve as a tool to promote tourism by showcasing landmarks and events in a distinctive manner, attracting visitors from abroad.
Challenges Facing Media in Saudi Arabia
Despite the significant developments that media platforms have witnessed in Saudi Arabia, there are still many challenges that persist. Among these is how to adapt to the rapid changes in media consumption, as digital platforms like “TikTok” and “Snapchat” attract public interest, especially among the youth. These platforms provide interactive and quick content, impacting how news and information are consumed.
Traditional media needs to reassess its strategies to reach the new audience. This requires innovation in content and style to align with the expectations of younger generations. There should be a focus on utilizing modern technologies and digital innovations to ensure that media messages are engaging and effective. Furthermore, strengthening partnerships between media outlets and government entities is necessary to promote positive messages and highlight achievements.
The Difference Between Official Media and Independent Media
Official media is usually associated with government entities, and therefore bears the responsibility of conveying official messages and accurate information. In contrast, independent media seeks to provide diverse perspectives, enabling it to address sensitive issues with greater freedom. This dynamic between official and independent media reflects an important balance needed in any healthy society to ensure there is space for expressing different opinions.
Each type of media has its role and significance. Official media can be a reliable source of information, while independent media can provide critical analyses that help the public understand issues more deeply. Both types must work together to promote high-quality and beneficial content that serves society. This collaborative relationship can contribute to enhancing transparency and accountability, which are essential in the current information age.
The Future of Media in Saudi Arabia
The future of media in Saudi Arabia largely depends on the ability of media professionals to innovate and adapt to the rapid changes in the media environment. There should be greater focus on developing new skills and understanding modern trends in media consumption. Digital media is a powerful tool that can be employed to effectively reach the audience, which requires media institutions to adopt new methods in presenting content.
Additionally, the shift towards more democratic trends and freedom of expression plays a significant role in shaping the future of media. The state must support independent media freedom, contributing to a healthy journalistic environment. At the same time, there should be monitoring of content to ensure that misleading or harmful information does not spread. The balance between freedom and responsibility will be essential to achieve media that contributes to building a strong and aware society.
Sports Media and Its Challenges
Sports is considered one of the most important fields of media, as it helps shape the passions of fans and provides enjoyable recreational times. However, sports media faces many challenges in meeting the expectations of the audience, particularly the youth. Achieving viewer satisfaction is very important, but it is not as easy as it seems. Viewers expect high-quality content and an enjoyable viewing experience, which requires significant efforts from channels and reporters. The successful media experience of the Saudi league is an example of how to make matches more appealing, where new elements were added to make the game more exciting, leading to increased viewing hours. On the other hand, many viewers suffer from poor quality of broadcasting, negatively affecting their experience.
Competition Between Traditional Media and Digital Media
The landscape of media has changed drastically in recent years with the emergence of digital platforms, leading to competition between traditional and digital media. Individuals can now easily disseminate news and comments via social media, making it challenging for traditional media to retain their audience. Experiences in various countries have shown that digital media has been able to attract young people more, as many prefer to follow news online instead of watching television. However, despite this, traditional media still plays an important role in providing reliable and accurate content, especially in critical times that require in-depth analysis.
Improving the Quality of Media Content
Achieving quality in media content is one of the major challenges facing media organizations. These organizations must invest in developing the skills of journalists and reporters to ensure valuable content is provided. Additionally, utilizing modern technology in media can significantly contribute to improving the quality of the presentation, through enhanced filming and production. Successful experiences in the English Premier League illustrate how quality in broadcasting and commentary can positively influence the viewer’s experience, requiring local channels to work on improving their production standards.
Changes
In Print Media and Its Response to Challenges
Print media has faced many challenges in recent years due to the shift of people towards digital media. However, some newspapers have managed to adapt to these changes through digital transformation and the creation of new content that meets the needs of the audience. Although newspapers are no longer the sole source of news, they still play an important role in providing in-depth analyses and reliable news. This requires media organizations to act innovatively to keep pace with these changes, both in terms of content and distribution methods.
The Role of Media in Promoting Community Culture
Media can play a pivotal role in promoting community culture and raising awareness of important issues. Through programs and initiatives targeting youth, media can contribute to shaping public consciousness and motivating them to engage in social and political issues. This requires media organizations to be responsible in providing content that educates the audience and reflects their needs and aspirations. Programs focusing on topics such as empowering women or youth rights may serve as examples of how media can be used as a tool for social change.
The Importance of Collaboration Between Media Organizations and Youth
Collaboration between media organizations and youth is vital for developing media. By involving youth in content creation, media organizations can gain new ideas and better reflect audience interests. Media organizations should provide opportunities for young people to participate in production, filming, and commentary, thereby enhancing their ability to engage with issues that matter to them. This collaboration can lead to the development of youth skills while simultaneously meeting their needs and desires in media.
Digital Media and Keeping Up with Development
With ongoing technological advancements, digital media becomes one of the essential tools for information dissemination. Media organizations must invest in improving their digital platforms and providing diverse and engaging content for the audience. Analytics and data can be utilized to better understand audience interests, which aids in directing production and publication strategies. These steps can significantly improve the relationship between media and the audience, and enhance trust in the information provided.
Digital Transformation in Media Organizations
In recent years, the world has witnessed significant digital transformation that has profoundly affected how media organizations operate. Digital transformation is no longer a choice but a pressing necessity to keep pace with rapid developments in technology and audience needs. Many media organizations, especially in the Arab world, face considerable challenges due to their inability to cope with this transformation. For instance, some traditional newspapers neglect digital archiving and focus their efforts on improving the visual interface of their websites, which indicates a lack of understanding of the nature of digital content and audience needs.
Digital transformation also involves studying market needs and understanding consumer behavior, which helps organizations effectively target advertisements. For example, a local newspaper may benefit from specializing in a specific topic to attract a particular reader segment while facing difficulties competing with national or global newspapers. Therefore, it is essential for media organizations to focus on providing specialized content that attracts their audience instead of pursuing futile competition.
The Role of Specialized Journalism in Increasing Reader Numbers
Specialized journalism is considered one of the effective tools for increasing reader numbers. When a media organization provides specialized and high-quality content, it can attract a specific audience that seeks content aligned with its interests. Organizations that focus on customizing their content gain a significant competitive advantage, as they can stand out in a market flooded with information.
Take the example of “Independent Arabic,” which was established to meet the needs of a specific group of readers. By providing content that focuses on pressing issues in the Arab region, the newspaper managed to attract a broad audience. This model can serve as a paradigm for other media organizations, as they should understand what the audience desires and work to meet those needs in innovative ways.
Challenges
Challenges Facing Major Media Institutions
With increasing competition in the media field, many large institutions face multiple challenges. These challenges include issues of intellectual property rights, as many institutions struggle to protect their content from breaches and illegal copying. For example, some platforms like “Shahid” find themselves in a dilemma due to the widespread availability of content for free online, negatively affecting their financial returns.
The “MBC” group is considered one of the most important media institutions in the Arab world, enjoying significant popularity. However, it faces challenges such as maintaining ownership of the rights to the content it produces. In light of technological developments, media institutions must be more innovative in their strategies to protect their content while attracting viewers at the same time.
Saudi Media in the Modern Era
The Saudi media has seen tremendous developments in recent years, as the Kingdom has become a major media hub in the region. Under wise leadership, investments have been made to develop media institutions and enhance their capabilities. For instance, the massive investments directed toward Saudi media have allowed it to expand its coverage and services, as the Kingdom has developed new platforms like “Sharq” that offer diverse and distinct content.
Some studies indicate that Saudi media is moving towards a new phase of expansion and innovation. Media institutions in Saudi Arabia must invest in new technologies and adopt effective marketing strategies to attract a larger audience. By achieving a balance between content quality and innovation, Saudi media can maintain its leading position in the Arab media landscape.
Criticism in Saudi Media: Reality and Challenges
The issue of criticism in Saudi media is one of the important topics that is often raised. In recent years, there has been a noticeable decline in the space for criticism directed at government institutions and prominent figures. This is due to several factors, including difficulty in communicating with official bodies, in addition to social and cultural restrictions.
When many people talk about freedom of expression in the media, they face challenges related to how to direct criticism objectively without harming public relations or affecting the interests of the state. Although there are some areas where criticism is permitted, many newspapers may shy away from addressing sensitive topics out of fear of backlash or potential consequences.
It is essential that there be spaces for constructive criticism, as criticism is an important part of the democratic process. Media institutions should work to provide a safe environment for criticism, allowing the media to effectively exercise its oversight role without constraints.
Challenges of E-Government Services
The e-government services system in many countries faces significant criticism from citizens regarding the effectiveness and accessibility of these services. Some point to problems such as long wait times and slow responses to requests, leading to user frustration. In light of these criticisms, governments are obliged to improve these services to make them more efficient and suitable to citizens’ needs. For example, response speed can be improved by increasing the number of employees handling e-services and enhancing their training in modern technology. Additionally, government service platforms can be developed to be more user-friendly, making it easier for citizens to access the information and services they need.
On the other hand, there are many major development projects being implemented to enhance e-services, which have proven effective in reducing crises. When users have a positive experience, their inclination to use e-government services increases. These projects require strong partnerships between the public and private sectors, in addition to investing resources in modern technology. For example, artificial intelligence can be used to analyze citizen requests and direct them to the appropriate departments more quickly.
Monitoring
On Media and Its Impact on Journalism
Media censorship is a sensitive topic in many countries, where some governments impose restrictions on media outlets. Many people discuss the importance of press freedom as a means to ensure transparency and accountability. However, there are those who believe that certain forms of censorship are necessary to maintain national security and prevent the spread of misleading information. This tension between the need for freedom of expression and the restrictions imposed by governments is highlighted.
For example, in some Arab countries, there has been a long history of censorship of newspapers and media. This has led to the development of new forms of media, such as digital media and social networks, which provide alternative platforms for information. Yet despite these transformations, journalists continue to face significant challenges related to pressure from authorities. This pressure is a crucial factor in shaping the media landscape, as journalists must find a balance between providing information and complying with imposed restrictions.
These pressures arise in environments that require journalists to exercise caution in their reporting, making it sometimes difficult to cover events objectively. Journalists must be fully aware of the laws and regulations related to media censorship in their countries, and handle the information they publish with care. They are also required to develop their critical analysis and strategic thinking skills to ensure the accuracy of the information they provide.
Regional and International Influences on Arab Media
Arab media is undergoing continuous transformations, particularly with the increasing regional and international influence. Political and economic events in the region play a significant role in shaping the media landscape, requiring journalists to adopt new strategies to keep pace with these changes. For example, media coverage is greatly affected by political conflicts in the Middle East, necessitating Arab media to be cautious in how they present information.
On the other hand, Arab media is also attracting attention from foreign countries seeking to improve their image through media. These new dynamics may require journalists to be aware of shifts in foreign policies and anticipate how these policies might affect news coverage. Additionally, the position of Arab media in facing global challenges, such as terrorism and misinformation, calls for new strategies to address these issues effectively.
At the same time, Arab journalism must strive to enhance its presence in the global media space by providing content characterized by objectivity and professionalism. This can lead to improved transparency and increased trust between media outlets and the public. These efforts may contribute to strengthening the image of Arab media as an active force on the international stage, achieving a greater impact on the global media landscape.
Development Projects in the Media Sector
Development projects in the media sector are among the most prominent issues currently at play, as many Arab countries seek to modernize and develop their media systems. These projects require the integration of efforts among various stakeholders, including government, private sector, and civil society. It is essential that these projects adopt strategies focused on innovation and digitization to keep up with global transformations in the media field.
When looking at developmental projects, we find that there are many ambitious initiatives aimed at providing a more open and transparent media environment. For example, projects may include the creation of new media platforms that allow users easier access to information and enhance freedom of expression. Development plans for the media should also include measures to develop journalists’ skills and improve media education in local communities.
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technological advancement, opportunities have emerged to develop innovative media content, such as podcasts and interactive videos that attract the youth generation. These innovations represent a new starting point for Arab media, where they can help improve audience engagement and enhance the culture of participation. Despite the challenges facing media, there are enormous potential for growth and development, making it possible to build a brighter media future.
The Importance of Addressing the Audience in Media
When talking about media, it is essential that the dialogue is primarily directed at the audience. The host or presenter must realize that their role is to convey the message to the viewer, not just to the guest sitting with them. This becomes clearer when we recognize that every word spoken can influence the thoughts and feelings held by the audience. Therefore, the interviewer must maintain focus on how the dialogue affects the viewers rather than getting immersed in side discussions with the guests.
Repeatedly, we find that presenters may get carried away in conversations with their guests, which can create confusion for the viewers. Thus, the presenter must be cautious in how they direct the conversation so they can enhance the message they wish to convey to the audience. This happens by asking questions that stimulate viewers’ thinking and encourage them to engage and think critically.
For example, if the presenter talks about a sensitive social issue, they must frame the questions in a way that encourages balanced dialogue, helping the audience understand the topic from multiple perspectives. When this is done effectively, it can influence how viewers engage with the content, leading to deeper discussions and increased awareness of the issue at hand.
The Difference Between Traditional Media and New Media
New media represents a significant shift in how information is consumed. In the past, traditional media was the primary source of news and information, with a great deal of effort exerted in preparing reports and analyses. Today, with the emergence of social media, individuals can become sources of information, radically changing the dynamics of media.
While traditional media strives to present news objectively, new media promotes individual personalities that may lack the necessary professional background. These personalities, known as influencers, can succeed in attracting audiences through their personal style and direct communication with followers. However, this raises questions about the quality and credibility of the information provided. For instance, many influencers may discuss topics in which they do not have adequate expertise, leading to the dissemination of inaccurate information.
On the other hand, new media can be seen as an opportunity to expand access to information. Thanks to social media, anyone can become a media activist, allowing for greater diversity of opinions and viewpoints. However, engaging with this information requires strong analytical skills so that the audience can distinguish between good and poor content.
Challenges of New Media and Government Entities
Government entities face significant challenges in adapting to the digital age. As reliance on influencers and celebrities for promoting government messages increases, questions arise regarding the effectiveness of these strategies in achieving the desired goals. Governments often turn to new media to reach youth, but this may be perceived as a simplification of complex issues.
When governments rely on influencers instead of creating original and innovative content, they lose the ability to control the message and the outcomes. Additionally, relying solely on social media celebrities is no longer sufficient to ensure the success of media campaigns. Government entities must adopt effective strategies based on content that provides real value to the audience.
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For example, instead of using celebrities to promote health or environmental campaigns, governments could collaborate with experts in their fields, leading to the provision of reliable and accurate information to the public. This type of collaboration can enhance the credibility of the governmental message and increase the effectiveness of communication with citizens.
The Potential Future of Specialized Media
Specialized media represents an important development in the world of media. With the increasing complexities in fields such as economics, politics, and technology, the need for specialized journalists has become more crucial. Journalists with a strong background in particular fields have the capacity to provide deeper and more accurate analyses, which contributes to enhancing the public’s understanding of complex issues.
However, specialized media faces significant challenges. On one hand, journalists must stay updated on developments in their fields, which requires continuous effort. Additionally, competition with new media outlets that adopt a fast-news style may negatively impact specialized journalists’ attempts to provide rich content based on research and facts.
Moreover, media institutions need to support specialized journalists by providing necessary resources and training. For example, institutions can collaborate with universities or research centers to enhance knowledge and exchange experiences. This cooperation can help improve the quality of the content provided and enhance journalists’ ability to interact with the public effectively.
Investigative Journalism and Its Challenges
Investigative journalism is considered one of the most important branches of media, as it seeks to uncover truths and convey information that may be absent from the public eye. The importance of this type of journalism lies in its ability to address thorny and significant issues, which contributes to enhancing transparency and accountability. However, investigative journalism faces many challenges, such as a lack of resources, difficulties in obtaining information, and pressures from governmental or private entities. Some discussions suggest that local journalism may struggle to compete with global newspapers like Bloomberg or the Financial Times, which have extensive networks and can access rich information sources. Thus, the question of when local investigative journalism will advance to the forefront emerges as a vital topic for discussion.
It is important to understand that pressure from major institutions can affect the quality of the information available to journalists, as the general direction of news may take precedence over the accuracy of information. At times, positive reports published by international media may be driven by specific interests, reflecting larger challenges faced by local investigative journalism.
One example of this is the acquisitions taking place in major companies, such as the acquisition of shares in global companies by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, where news is disseminated through global media faster and wider than can occur in local journalism. This raises questions about how local journalism can improve to provide similar experiences of deep analysis and accurate information.
The Importance of Data and Information in Journalism
Data is considered one of the cornerstones in supporting investigative journalism; without it, reports may be weak or unreliable. Journalists frequently talk about the difficulties they face in obtaining data from governmental or private entities, leading to a lack of accurate information available for journalism. For instance, when trying to obtain accurate information about specific projects such as the metro, a journalist may encounter refusal or restrictions on the information available.
Good journalism requires effective communication with relevant entities, but there are times when governmental institutions may seem unwilling to cooperate. For example, in some cases, there may be a lack of data or any tangible response from officials, creating a gap in information and making it difficult for journalists to carry out their tasks. This situation indicates the necessity of improving the mechanisms of work between journalism and governmental entities to ensure the provision of necessary information.
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Another aspect highlights the importance of deep data analysis and transforming it into useful information for the audience. This requires special skills from journalists on how to interpret data and present it in a way that makes it understandable to the public. Therefore, continuous education and training for journalists on how to handle data is extremely necessary, helping them provide more accurate and reliable reports.
Dealing with Loss of Passion in Journalism
The loss of passion is one of the biggest challenges faced by journalists, as it can affect their productivity and professional performance. A journalist may feel frustrated due to daily pressures, lack of appreciation from the media environment, or even due to the repetitive routine that may lead to a loss of enthusiasm. Therefore, it is important to handle this phase in a positive manner; refreshing and changing the work style or the surrounding environment can be an effective way to regain passion.
Experiences of some journalists indicate that engaging in sports and recreational activities can help improve mood and bring vitality back to the daily routine. Additionally, communicating with colleagues and exchanging ideas can contribute to renewing enthusiasm and engaging in new projects. In other words, it is important to have spaces for renewal and innovation within the work environment.
When a journalist faces a loss of passion, it is important to remember why they chose this profession in the first place and what goals they are striving to achieve. By reevaluating personal and professional goals, a journalist can regain their passion and rediscover the reasons that drove them to enter the world of journalism. Ultimately, passion is the main driver of creativity and productivity, and every journalist should work on maintaining and nurturing it in various ways.
Future Challenges for Media in the Arab World
The media industry in the Arab world faces a range of challenges, from political pressures to economic problems affecting the sustainability of media institutions. How these institutions deal with rapid changes in the media environment, especially with the emergence of digital media, is crucial. For example, competition from digital platforms has increased, leading to a decline in the number of readers and viewers relying on traditional media.
These challenges require media institutions to rethink their strategies concerning how to reach the audience and how to create relevant and engaging content. One strategy that is being increasingly utilized is the use of data and analytics to understand audience interests and trends, enabling stations and newspapers to improve the quality of the content they provide.
Moreover, media professionals must be familiar with modern technologies and how to use them in news delivery. The inability to adapt to these technological changes can lead to a decline in media institutions and the superiority of digital platforms over them. Therefore, training journalists to use modern technology in preparing news and reports will be essential for competing in the future of media.
The episode was summarized using artificial intelligence ezycontent
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