Abstract

The economic adjustments that Egypt implemented as part of an IMF-backed program between 2016 and 2019 were a milestone event in the country's economic history. Business journalism was an important part of it as people, policymakers and businesses tried to grasp the developments. Using qualitative in-depth interviews with business journalists and editors, this study attempts to examine the various influences experienced by journalists that affected their framing of news and the quality and type of coverage. The study argues that journalists came under the influence of political pressure and media controls, as well as the technical allure of market sources which helped unify narrative and suppress diverse opinions. The study also shows that although political pressures were an important determinant of coverage, it was not the only major form of pressure. Structural factors that have to do with business models and working routines of media outlets helped trim the narrative and censor alternative perspectives. The study highlights the importance of a review of media regulations and communication policies that would ensure a fair and valuable coverage in the future that is helpful to the audience.

Department

Public Policy & Administration Department

Degree Name

MA in Public Policy

Graduation Date

Fall 6-9-2021

Submission Date

1-25-2021

First Advisor

Ghada Barsoum

Committee Member 1

Naila Hamdy

Committee Member 2

Hisham Wahby

Extent

106 p.

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval

Approval has been obtained for this item

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