Al-Jazeera’s Formative Years (1996–1999): Challenging Narratives, Reshaping Media, and Projecting Power
The launch of Al-Jazeera in 1996 revolutionized Arab media by challenging Western narratives, disrupting state-controlled broadcasting, and advancing Qatar’s soft power strategy. Unlike heavily censored regional media, Al-Jazeera introduced uncensored reporting and diverse perspectives, reshaping political discourse. This study examines its formative years (1996–1999), particularly its coverage of events like Operation Desert Fox, which countered Western media dominance and redefined Arab journalism. By amplifying marginalized voices and adopting a dynamic news model, Al-Jazeera emerged as both a media liberalization force and a diplomatic tool for Qatar. While editorially independent, its ties to the Qatari government reveal the complexities of state-sponsored media. Through an analysis of early broadcasts and geopolitical context, this research explores Al-Jazeera’s lasting impact on regional and global political narratives.
Faculty Mentor: Prof. Gerd Nonneman
https://sites.google.com/georgetown.edu/al-danacmapcapstoneproject?usp=sharing
