Abstract
Community radio stations are instrumental in enhancing different social and economic aspects in the Arab world. A debate has been ensuing over the years about the contribution of community radio station and establishment of a legal framework that supports the thriving of these stations. In the recent past, the Arab spring has triggered debate over the contribution of the media to the revolts spreading from Africa to the Middle East.
The problem
Many Arab countries have policies that prohibit the operation of community radio stations.
Background of the problem
The policy framework has a historical justification where only government based radios and the elite investors are allowed in the industry. However, a change to this policy framework and encourage the establishment of community radio station will enhance the freedom of expressions of its citizen (Kuttab, 2012).
Research methodology
In order to gather the necessary information on community radio stations within these Arab countries, a number of approaches will be used. Information search from secondary sources such as text books and journals will be carried out. On the other hand, mail enquiries will be done to obtain primary information.
It is expected that some of the inherent significance of community radio stations include enhanced freedom of expression in the society. Community radios also contribute enormously to the interactions and exposure of the challenges facing the society. In the Arab world where oppressions go unreported community radios would provide a pertinent channel of reporting these oppressions. Moreover, through the radios the society can be able to articulate its issues through positive debates and participation. It is pertinent to note that the participation of the listeners from the community is crucial in the success of community radio stations (Gordon, 2012).
References
Gordon, J. (2012). Community radio in the twenty-first century. New York: Peter Lang.
Kuttab, D. (2012). Arab Media & Society. Arab Media & Society. Retrieved February 19, 2013, from http://www.arabmediasociety.com/?article=799
