Journalism in Syria Journalism in Syria

Throughout Syria’s history, the way in which we hear news has evolved significantly, and the media’s landscape has been marked by significant shifts in journalism. The journey began in 1876 with the inception of “Al-Jinan”, one of the earliest political newspapers in the country. Press freedom flourished after gaining independence from the Ottomans in 1918, but unification with Egypt in 1958 brought radical centralized regulations and media pressure. Despite these obstacles, opposition media persisted, striving for independence and truth. However, after the failure of this unification in 1961, the ruling party tightened control, stifling dissent, and nationalizing most outlets – societal knowledge was practically reduced to gossip and political banter shrouded in secrecy or mere rumors.

In the new millennium, the brief period known as the “Damascus Spring” of 2000-2001 brought hope for openness. Social media was introduced as an alternative platform, especially for the youth, enabling them to express themselves freely and connect with the whole world despite the lack of internet coverage in many Syrian Households had at that time. Since 2011 Journalism in Syria has operated within a complex and challenging environment, shaped by a range of obstacles that have influenced the flow and quality of information dissemination, and also the dissemination of fake and misleading news, resulting in further divisions within our communities.

Amidst all this, international media has played a significant role in shaping Syria’s image, shedding light on the human cost of war but mostly reducing Syrians to mere statistics and numbers. The thing that has affected the public opinion and policies in countries that have welcomed Syrian refugees, resulting in a misrepresentation of the true nature of the Syrian human and culture. Journalism influences how we perceive events, ourselves, and others, sometimes polished by a fact-based approach and other times, tinged with malicious fake news and propaganda.