World Press Freedom Day: Media landscape in Beth Nahrin and development of Syriac language press

Every year on 3 May, the world commemorates World Press Freedom Day, a day dedicated to championing the principles of a free, independent, and pluralistic press, as outlined in the Windhoek Declaration of 1991.

On this occasion, SyriacPress has reflected on press freedom in the North and East regions of Syria, with a particular focus on Syriac language media.

Initiated two years after the Windhoek Declaration, UNESCO designated 3 May as a reminder to governments worldwide to uphold their commitment to press freedom and professional ethics, urging media professionals to reflect on pertinent issues.

However, recent Press Freedom reports by organizations like Reporters Without Borders have shown concerning trends, with many Middle Eastern countries witnessing a decline in press freedom rankings. Turkey, for instance, plummeted 16 places to 165th position after enacting laws empowering authorities to target journalists under the guise of combating misinformation. Similarly, Syria, Iraq, and Iran ranked low, reflecting ongoing violations against journalists.

In contrast, the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES) has demonstrated a commitment to media freedom since its inception. Emphasizing the vital role of media in society, DAARNES has facilitated the establishment of newspapers, magazines, and radio and television stations, fostering societal development.

The journey of Syriac language press has been marked by challenges and resilience. Despite initial suppression, Syriac publications eventually flourished, especially in the diaspora following emigration to countries like the United States. Over time, it has evolved and adapted to meet the needs of its audience, underscoring the enduring importance of a free press in preserving cultural identity and fostering informed discourse.