A recent survey of Arab viewers conducted by the Dubai-based Al Arabiya news channel in support of the forthcoming World Economic Forum (WEF) is set to single out the most pressing popular demands for reform needed to be introduced in the Middle East. The WEF is due to take from May 20-22nd in Jordan.
The results, expressed by the channel’s viewers over a period of 11 days, in response to a survey conducted by Al Arabiya in coordination with WEF, will support the meetings of the forum as Arab viewers are given the chance to decide part of the agenda of this global meeting.
“We offered our viewers the chance to respond to a variety of questions dealing with various sociopolitical, cultural and economic issues that they consider of priority to them in developing and spurring change in the region and we are very pleased with the outcome of our joint effort with The World Economic Forum (WEF)”, Nakhle Al Haj, Director of News and Current Affairs at Al Arabiya explained.
Al Haj added: “The views expressed by our viewers will be considered as part of the overall agenda that will be discussed during the forum. We hope that this will bring the views and aspirations of the public closer to decision-makers and legislators so that the World Economic Forum succeeds in discussing issues of direct relevance to the Arab masses.” He also pointed out that three viewers will be randomly chosen as winners of a trip to the Dead Sea to take part in the WEF event.
Arab audiences were given the chance to express their opinion on a series of pressing sociopolitical, economic and cultural issues that matters most to them and to pinpoint the issues they consider most urgent in supporting growth in the Arab region and to fuel development and progress in a region that is currently witnessing a lot of change.
Running one question for each day for eleven days starting Sunday, April 17, 2005, the public was given a chance to vote by choosing one of 3 options to submit their answers: through an IVR number, SMS or via the alarabiya.net site.
“Reform in the Middle East is not an option, it is a necessity. The World Economic Forum in Jordan 2005 will be an opportunity for all those who want to bring about real and sustained changes in business, government and civil society. Without such reform, the Arab world faces the prospect of not only missing out on the advantages of playing a full role in a vibrant world economy but also failing to develop the true potential of its young and growing population,” said Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman, World Economic Forum.
Held under the theme “Seizing the Moment”, leaders from business, politics and civil society will be challenged to respond to popular demands for improvement in their daily lives through wider political participation, improved economic opportunities, and greater peace and stability throughout the region.
Participants at the World Economic Forum's third meeting in Jordan will examine the latest developments in the peace process and build international support for the next steps.
The programme will also engage regional players with the wider world on the issues of international terrorism and nuclear proliferation. The programme of the meeting will touch upon sub-themes such as driving economic growth, fostering peace and security, the relationship between the Middle East and the World
