Words and Deeds - Freedom of Expression and Arab Youth

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A generation ago, young Arabs went to the streets to protest repressive governments. Now, they hop on the information highway – blogging and tweeting their discontent. They upload music, download protests. But this generation is up against rulers who know a thing or two about staying in power – and they are keeping the kids in check. It's an old battle on new ground – young activists fight to express themselves as Arab governments find better ways to outflank them. 

Executive Producer: Aaron Lobel / AAM Producers: Monica Bushman, Sean Carberry, Jordana Gustafson, Matt Ozug, Chris Williams. Editing by Martha Little / Web Producer: Javier Barrera / Photo: Sean Carberry /Host: Deborah Amos

+ Social Media In Egypt

Deborah Amos reports from Egypt where Facebook and Twitter are the new tools of protest for youth struggling for change.

Story Transcript: Social Media in Egypt.pdf

+ Restrictions On Independent Media In Egypt

Deborah Amos speaks with Michael Hanna, a fellow at The Century Foundation and expert on Egyptian politics, about the recently tightened restrictions on independent media in Egypt.

+ Outlets Of Expression And Activism In Morocco

Sean Carberry travels to Morocco where young people are disillusioned with traditional politics and are turning to alternative outlets of expression and activism.

+ Government Censorship In Syria

Deborah Amos reports on government censorship in Syria, and how young people are responding to it.

+ Stand-Up Comedy In The Middle East

Dean Obeidallah, a comedian who performs and teaches in the Arab world, talks about the growing popularity of stand-up in the region and its potential to push boundaries.

Story Transcript: Stand-up Comedy.pdf

+ New Media And Political Change

Deborah Amos speaks with Carl Gershman, President of the National Endowment for Democracy, about whether new media can be an effective means for young people to gain freedom and drive political change.

Supported By:

The National Endowment for the Humanities

Mediaspace