Driving Scientific Progress and Innovation with a Free Press

The ongoing “Arab Spring”–courageously propelled by youth and individuals determined to have their voices heard and their human rights respected–is writing a new chapter in the region’s storied history. Recent changes pose many challenges but also an opportunity to reclaim the Golden Age of Arab and Islamic science, which took place from the 7th to the 13th century.

Freedom of the press inevitably helps drive scientific progress, which in turn propels innovation and economic prosperity. Moreover, science and the accurate communication of science go hand-in-hand: Good journalism, like good science, thrives on openness and a respect for truth based on evidence.

Arab investment in science and technology cannot fully benefit society without the work of editorially independent science journalists. As many Arab nations emerge with new vigor and focus, they will benefit from building a well-functioning science and technology community that can contribute to innovation and economic growth as well as science-based challenges in sustainability and the environment.