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Abstract

Traditional broadcast networks can no longer dominate the electronic media infrastructure of the world. Because of cyberspace technologies now being introduced globally, the international telecommunication community is in a state of reinventing itself, and the impact of these changes may indelibly alter the way humanity interacts and communicates in the future. At the forefront of the communications revolution is the Information Superhighway, which has one compelling characteristic not found in previous distribution systems - it crosses borders. This unique trait allows for a world where transnational exchange is not merely possible, but is unavoidable. Major questions arise from these developments, and must become the subject of research. In the 21st century, what effects will these developments have on emerging universal issues such as multinational diversity, cultural integrity, the demand for global programming, production and distribution and media access and ownership. This article examines the impact of the Information Superhighway on one strategic, international region, the Arab World. Using traditional, historical analysis and field study methodology, this article explores: (1) the current status of media access and ownership in the Arab World; (2) the perspectives for developing cyberspace infrastructures and technologies that support the Information Superhighway in the region; and (3) the economic and cultural ramifications of the Information Superhighway on Arabic societies in the coming millennium.

Keywords

access Arab communications ownership technology

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New and Old Media Access and Ownership in the Arab World

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