Fostering Arab Creativity: The Case for an “Arab Oscar” and the Role of the Arab League Secretary General as Strategic Sponsor
April 14, 2026 Abstract This paper explores the potential of establishing a pan-Arab film and creative arts award—colloquially termed the “Arab Oscar”—as a mechanism to unify, elevate, and export Arab cultural production. It argues that the Secretary General of the Arab League is uniquely positioned to serve as the institutional sponsor of such an initiative. Drawing on cultural economics, soft power theory, and regional integration frameworks, the paper outlines the current fragmentation of Arab creative industries, the symbolic and logistical value of League endorsement, and concrete steps for implementation. The analysis concludes that an Arab Oscar, sponsored at the highest diplomatic level, could stimulate local talent, counter stereotypical narratives, and strengthen Arab cultural sovereignty. 1. Introduction Arab creativity has long been a cornerstone of world civilization—from golden age poetry and calligraphy to contemporary cinema and digital art. Yet, despite a rich tapestry of national film festivals (Cairo, Carthage, Marrakech, Dubai) and regional awards (e.g., Malta’s Arabia Felix, Murex d’Or), the Arab world lacks a single, universally recognized, pan-Arab film and arts prize equivalent to the Academy Awards (“Oscar”) or the Goya Awards. This fragmentation dilutes recognition, limits cross-border collaboration, and reduces global cultural impact. arab creativity oscar arab league secretary general sponsor
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