Al Jazeera English targets expansion in Africa, Asia and US: Managing Director
<p>Doha, Qatar: Al Jazeera English is developing an ambitious five-year strategy to expand its international reach, strengthen its presence in Africa, Asia and the United States, and invest in digital innovation while maintaining its commitment to independent journalism, according to the channel’s Managing Director, Issa Ali.</p> <p>Speaking in an exclusive interview with <em>The Peninsula…
Doha, Qatar – Al Jazeera English is expanding its international reach and strengthening its presence in Africa, Asia, and the United States, according to the channel's Managing Director, Issa Ali. Speaking to The Peninsula as the channel marks three decades of journalism, Ali outlined a five-year strategy that includes developing new regional programming, expanding digital platforms, and reviewing global bureau operations.
Ali emphasized that the US market is a top priority, with plans to build upon existing broadcasting operations in Washington, D.C. Africa and Asia are also central to the expansion strategy, with discussions underway for dedicated programming addressing issues affecting audiences across both regions. Ali stated that Al Jazeera English has been exploring Africa-focused programming, including documentaries and discussion shows, to reflect continental developments rather than individual countries' domestic affairs.
Similar initiatives are being considered for Asia, building on existing regional news segments. The channel, present in nearly 60 locations worldwide, is reviewing its international bureaus to determine the most effective approach for permanent operations or contributor-based coverage. Reflecting on Al Jazeera's transformation from a regional Arabic-language broadcaster to an internationally recognized media organization, Ali credited its success to distinctive journalism and its commitment to underrepresented perspectives.
Ali highlighted the network's editorial independence, despite receiving funding from Qatar, and its commitment to journalistic excellence despite the growing influence of artificial intelligence. He explained that AI could assist in administrative processes, scheduling, and translation, while human oversight remains essential for editorial decisions.
Ali stressed the importance of accuracy, fairness, and empowerment in journalism, stating that the network's greatest achievement lies in its impact on public trust and its ability to adapt to a rapidly changing global media landscape.
Written by urgent.news from The Peninsula Qatar's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
