The Publishing of Braille Magazines in Egypt: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

Abstract: This study examines the publishing of braille magazines in Egypt, focusing on its technical, legal, and financial aspects. The study also discusses the major challenges facing braille magazine publishers; it suggests ways by which the braille magazine industry can flourish. Drawing on semistructured interviews conducted with the publishers of six braille magazines, the study findings indicated that the magazines’ editorial teams are comprised of volunteers having limited experience in journalism. Also, the magazines’ content consists primarily of articles obtained from printed newspapers and the internet, which, therefore, makes braille readers unable to access original and timely information. Moreover, the press laws in Egypt overlooked braille magazines, putting the legitimacy of this type of publication at great risk. Further, poor financial sources are considered the main obstacles encountering the magazine publishers, signifying a potential threat to the sustainability of their businesses. One possible way for this industry to improve is to attract private media companies to create braille publications by offering them tax exemptions, as well as other government incentives. Another recommendation suggested is the need for media and journalism schools to admit students with visual impairments, as the demand for well-qualified journalists with visual impairments may increase.