Investigative Journalism in Arab Nations Transitioning from a Watchdog Function to Settling Personal Scores

Abstract

Abstract: This study delineates the trajectory of investigative journalism within Arab states, illustrating its confrontations with numerous impediments that have skewed it from its foundational principles observed in Western contexts since its inception. These obstacles have led to a deviation from its core mandate of in-depth factual investigation, exacerbated by a climate of restricted freedom where journalists face numerous constraints preventing effective corruption exposure and governmental oversight. This research aims to dissect the state of investigative journalism in the Arab world, elucidating the causes of its lag and deviation from fundamental duties and ethical standards. It becomes evident upon examining investigative journalism in the Arab nations that it has strayed from its primary objectives, occasionally morphing into a mechanism for personal gain and extortion. This misalignment fundamentally stems from a lack of understanding among investigative journalists of their critical and strategic role in influencing state policies in the Arab world. A scenario where freedom lacks accountability results in disorder, exploitation, and leveraging public distress for personal gains. Keywords: Investigation, Investigative Journalism, Exposing Corruption, Watchdog Function, Investigative Journalist.