Middle East Media Is “Reactive”, Says Mohammed Al Mulla

The Middle East media is a highly reactive media, according to Kuwaiti TV host Mohammed Al Mulla. He was speaking at a session titled ‘Arab Media Campaign and News Dissemination’ at the 17th edition of the Arab Media Forum (AMF) in Dubai.

Held under the patronage of Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, AMF 2018 is being held at Madinat Jumeirah from 3-4 April.

Al Mulla said the USA and other western countries enjoy media freedom and democracy, though they have their own agenda. In comparison, the Middle East lacks a real media industry. “We have a reactive media here that reacts to the news instead of reporting fresh news,” Al Mulla said.

Furthermore, he said regional media have played a key role in regional crises, adding that some news outlets have disseminated fake news.

The 17^th edition of the AMF has brought together more than 3,000 prominent regional and international media figures and thought leaders. Apart from high-profile local speakers, the two-day event features 50 speakers representing 20 countries from across the Arab region and the world. Under the theme ‘Impactful Media Trends’, prominent media personalities, writers, influencers and academics are sharing their views on diverse issues at the Forum with the aim of forging a new vision for the media.