What were the main factors that contributed to the role of external media in the Arab Spring movements?

The main factors that contributed to the role of external media in the Arab Spring movements were:

1. Globalization and technological advancements: The widespread availability of the internet, social media platforms, and satellite television allowed for the rapid dissemination of information and facilitated the sharing of images, videos, and news reports from the Arab Spring protests. This enabled external media outlets to cover and report on the events in real-time, reaching a global audience.

2. Lack of independent local media: Many Arab countries had limited freedom of the press and heavily controlled state media, which often served as propaganda tools for the ruling regimes. As a result, external media outlets became crucial sources of unbiased information for the protesters and the international community.

3. Desire for international support: The Arab Spring movements sought to gain international attention and support for their cause. External media coverage played a significant role in amplifying their grievances, human rights abuses, and demands, which helped garner sympathy and solidarity from the international community.

4. Exposing government repression: External media outlets played a crucial role in exposing government repression and human rights violations during the Arab Spring. By broadcasting and reporting on the violent crackdowns, arrests, and abuses committed by the ruling regimes, external media helped shed light on the injustices faced by the protesters, further fueling public outrage and mobilization.

5. Inspiration and coordination: External media coverage of successful uprisings in other countries, such as the Tunisian revolution, inspired and motivated protesters in other Arab nations. It also facilitated coordination and communication between different protest movements, allowing them to learn from each other's strategies and tactics.

Overall, the role of external media in the Arab Spring movements was instrumental in providing information, exposing government repression, mobilizing support, and inspiring and coordinating protests across the region.