Google begins search for regional lobbyist

Google is poised to enter the complex world of Middle East politics. The online search giant is seeking an Arab political professional to make its voice heard on issues of internet law and regulation in the region. The world's largest internet company will expect its regional lobbyist to push its public policy objectives to governments and regulators across the Arab world.

The lobbyist will "advocate on behalf of Google direct with politicians and policymakers at every legislative level", Google said, and "work with trade associations, industry partners, non-profit groups and other allies to promote and build support for Google's policy positions." Google added that the successful candidate would probably be based in Dubai or Cairo. The Middle East's internet market remains one of the most heavily regulated in the world, with formal and informal systems of censorship and government involvement.

Google's lobbyist will work to keep the company's search engine and its other internet services on the good side of regional censors and regulators, said Saleem Adam, a technology and telecommunications lawyer in the Abu Dhabi office of the law firm Trowers and Hamlins. "Wherever there are restrictions on the internet, as there are here, they try to ensure that they lobby sufficiently to make sure whatever Google does isn't kept behind the gates," Mr Adam said. "Very little goes on in respect to official lobbying here. The fact that Google is doing this looks like good news."

Lobbying and public policy roles are a standard part of Google's operations in mature markets, said Joanne Kubba, the regional communications and public affairs manager for Google. "The Middle East is a growing market for us, and this is another sign we are fully developing our presence here. "It is about everything from engaging in policy discussions with think tanks and industry groups to having a presence in debates taking place around the region. It's always good to have someone on the ground working on this type of thing."

As Google grew from its Silicon Valley roots to become a central force in the internet industry, the company developed an increasingly public presence in debates on internet, telecommunications and technology law. It has become one of the most outspoken advocates for the principle of network neutrality, arguing that telecoms should not be allowed to discriminate between different types of data sent through their networks.

Most recently, Google challenged China over internet censorship and alleged cyber-espionage. @Email:tgara@thenational.ae