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BBC Arabic Defended as Vital Voice Amid Criticism

3/28/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Fiona Crack, director of BBC World Service, defends BBC Arabic as a vital, independent outlet in the Arab world, underscoring its regional significance.
She says it covers the Israeli perspective often ignored by state-owned media, despite criticism for controversial guests.
Following an 18-month editorial overhaul, the BBC has implemented stricter contributor checks.
Crack urges caution in criticizing public service media.

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Story summary

Fiona Crack, director of BBC World Service, defends BBC Arabic as a vital, independent outlet in the Arab world, underscoring its regional significance.
She says it covers the Israeli perspective often ignored by state-owned media, despite criticism for controversial guests.
Following an 18-month editorial overhaul, the BBC has implemented stricter contributor checks.
Crack urges caution in criticizing public service media.