The internet based campaigns group Avaaz which describes itself as "a global web movement to bring people-powered politics to decision-making everywhere" are seeking to galvanize multi-nation public support for action to put a halt to Australian media baron Rupert Murdoch's domination of broadcasting and press ownership around the world.
Murdoch's recent manoeuvres in the UK aimed at full acquisition of the BSkyB network has provoked a huge amount of criticism from business rivals and political enemies who have cried foul. They claim the deal will allow Murdoch to strengthen his grip on the nation's media sector and once again proves he is too close to the government.
Avaaz state on their website Avaaz.org: "Rupert Murdoch has exploited his vast media empire to push war in Iraq, elect George W Bush, spread resentment of Muslims and immigrants, and block global action on climate change. He undermines democratic government across the world by threatening elected leaders with vicious and often false media coverage unless they do his bidding."
*Read more about Murdoch and the BSkyB deal here.
Thomas L. Blair is a sociologist and political blogger on the Chronicleworld 'for creative renewal in Black Britain and Afro-Europe'. His work is honoured in the British Library's archive of "social, historic and culturally significant web-based material from the UK domain". He won top prize in the blogging competition on The-Latest.
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