While the model of a single author posting on a blog is on the decline in the region, with many selling their work elsewhere, to sites like our own, or relying on social media, there is still an active blogosphere. We chose these based on the quality of writing, reporting and analysis, while also considering how often they are updated and how much of the region they cover.
Naseem Tarawnah, 28, created this blog to address social and political issues in Jordan and “to chronicle the extraordinary voyage of metamorphosis” his home country has “embarked upon.” While finishing his master’s degree through the University of London and running the business arm of a citizen media company he founded, he manages to post frequently on domestic issues, with pictures, videos, comics, and memes throughout, and even some original poetry here and there.
(Photo: Al-Monitor screen shot)
To see 50 People Shaping the Culture of the Middle East, click here.
Note: This list excludes obvious major international news organizations and wire services, focusing instead on blogs and local and regional sites. Some of the individuals featured on this list are also Al-Monitor contributors.
To see 50 Best Middle East Twitter Feeds, click here.