Middle East & North Africa

Qatar

{This graph represents scores that have been modified by CIMA so that higher scores indicate a better media situation. It is intended to show trends over time; each index measures significantly different factors of press freedom. To see an explanation for how this graph was created, click here.}
 

IREX Description:

Several dramatic and controversial developments affected Qatar's media sector in 2009.

The government announced that it will unveil its first media law in 30 years by the end of 2010, to replace the outdated Press and Publications Law. For the last several decades, this law has restricted procedures on the establishment of newspapers and stipulated criminal penalties and prison sentences for libel and slander. The media community is not optimistic that the new law will work in its favor, though, as preliminary statements surrounding the draft of the new law hint toward greater regulation.

Although the influential Arabic-language news television network Al Jazeera has raised Qatar's media profile, journalism in the country still has many hurdles to overcome. The constitution provides for freedom of speech and of the press in accordance with the law, but the government limits these rights in practice. The state owns all broadcasting outlets, and most print outlets have close ties to the government. In response, journalists and publishers continue to self-censor due to political and economic pressures when reporting on government policies or material deemed hostile to Islam, the ruling family, and relations with neighboring states. The growth of the Internet and new media is providing an alternative platform. Most news outlets have associated websites, and there were 430,000 Internet users by the end of 2009. But, the authorities continue to filter political criticism, material deemed offensive to Islam, pornographic content, and online privacy resources.

Read more on IREX’s site…

Reporters Without Borders Description:

Despite the existence of privately owned newspapers, most of them belong to members of the ruling family. The balancing act that constitutes journalism here means that any critical analysis of decisions made by the Doha authorities or on Qatar in general is highly risky. Political and financial pressures weigh heavily on the editorial line taken by newspapers.

Read more on RSF’s site…

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