Global Regulation of Parody and Satire as Policy Guidance on the Implementation of Qatar's Cyberlaw

Through legal and historical research, combined with a case study, this research proposal seeks to examine the regulation of parody and satire on a global scale. The goal is to provide solid guidance to Qatar as it seeks to implement its new cyberlaw to prevent the negative media attention that focused on the United Arab Emirates after it enforced its cyberlaw in December 2013. Given the importance of Qatar's reputation on the world stage, much can be learned from the UAE's handling of a parody video to ensure a similar situation does not result in negative publicity for Qatar. A global study of the regulation of parody and satire would provide much-needed context to the country's authorities to help them decide the best course of action when presented with similar incident. Further, as the World Cup preparations ramp up, it is even more likely that such criticism of the country is likely to occur. Often, countries like the UAE who seek a swift and severe reaction to such content suffer more significantly from their actions due to the increased scrutiny and pressure from other global powers. Along the same lines, this global outcry often draws far more negative attention than the original incident garnered. Providing Qatar with a range of approaches to the regulation of parodic and satirical content helps ensure that educated and informed decisions can be made should a similar incident occur in this country. In the end, this research is aimed to help Qatar preserve its reputation as an emerging world leader in the event critical parodic or satirical speech would surface.