Al-Arabiya, an independent Dubai-based satellite channel, who pride themselves as the voice of the Arabs, announced that it will run the “Voice of Arab People Survey” from 17th April in the run up to the upcoming World Economic Forum Meeting in Jordan on 20 to 22 May.
“Seizing the Moment “ the theme of this year’s World Economic Forum aims to capitalize on the opportunities offered by the Iraqi and Palestinian newly elected governments, bringing together also the key players in the broader political environment in search of greater security and prosperity. The Israeli-Palestinian issue will also be on the agenda. Participants will address the implications of the new Bush Administration and the place of the Middle East in the wider world. The wider issues of regional reform, economic rejuvenation and societal change will also feature highly. Political leaders, including heads of state from the region and senior ministers from Europe, Asia and the United States, have already confirmed their intention to participate. The G-8 will convene officially on this occasion, focusing on education reform and skills development.
Al-Arabiya will ask one question each day for twelve days starting Sunday, 17th April. Each question will be aired for 24 hours. The public/audience will then be invited to vote by choosing one of the 3-4 options for every question through an IVR number, SMS or via Al-Arabiya’s website (www.alarabiya.net). The audience can also fill the whole questionnaire through Al-Arabiya website. Over all results will be collected, analyzed and carried forward to the World Economic Forum Meeting in Jordan. By participating in the survey, the public priorities - will be reflected in this year’s Meeting. Three voters who have participated in the survey will be chosen randomly to travel with Al-Arabiya team to the take part at the above event at the Dead Sea, Jordan.
The overall results will be featured at the Opening Plenary of the World Economic Forum Meeting in Jordan on 20th May which will be broadcast live from Dead Sea through the Al-Arabiya channel. A follow-up “Live Al-Arabiya Debate” with leading intellectuals and influential members of the community to discuss the process of reform in the Arab World will be held as part of the official Forum’s program on 21st May between 16.45-18.15 hrs. Participants will address implementing reforms in the region with emphasis on the possible roles of Arab security apparatus’, the war on terrorism and the lack of popular representation in thwarting development.
“The Arab world has one of the highest levels of youth unemployment in the world – and with continuing population growth, reform is not simply desirable it is absolutely imperative if the region is to avoid huge social unrest,” said Mark Adams, Head of Media at the World Economic Forum. “For reform to succeed whether it be in the economic, social or political sphere, Arab public opinion must be fully engaged and fully consulted. That is why we are pleased to work so closely with Al-Arabiya on this project, the results of which will be fully integrated into our meeting in Jordan.”
