Middle East Media Landscapes: Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Syria, and Yemen

Following the youth-led reformative wave that swept the Middle East in 2011 during what came to be known as the Arab Spring, the media landscape in the region has continued to diversify and change alongside technology and social media. However, in order to deal with a large youth demographic that is seeking increased civil liberties and equality, and to prevent another series of protests, many governments are placing restrictions and limitations on the press, internet access, and censoring individuals who are critical of government or politically active. Through a critical analysis of the current media landscapes of five nations; Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Syria, and Yemen, as well as specific examples of media suppression and censorship, this research establishes a global perspective on free speech and suggest a protocol for youth engagement through social media and understand how regulation translates into censorship