The Syrian Future Movement is closely monitoring developments related to media independence and freedom of expression, which are fundamental pillars for building a modern, institutionalized state in Syria.
The Syrian Future Movement expresses its full support for the position of the Syrian Journalists Association, an independent professional organization and member of the International Federation of Journalists, in its categorical rejection of the “Code of Professional and Ethical Conduct” dated February 7, 2026, which was prepared by the Ministry of Information and is scheduled for official launch on February 15, 2026.
The Syrian Future Movement believes that the aforementioned code, according to available information, represents an attempt to regulate professional conduct in the media sector, based on workshops involving hundreds of journalists and experts, and inspired by advanced international models.
However, the Association’s rejection highlights fundamental concerns regarding its legitimacy and implementation mechanisms, as it is considered a violation of the Transitional Constitutional Declaration, which guarantees freedom of expression and the independence of the media from the executive branch. Furthermore, linking adherence to the code to the issuance of licenses and press cards raises questions about its transformation into a tool of censorship, rather than a voluntary ethical framework emanating from the professionals themselves.
The Syrian Future Movement, from a national perspective, affirms that any attempt to impose a regulatory framework on the journalistic profession without genuine and independent participation from professional syndicates constitutes a violation of the principles of freedom of association, as stipulated in relevant international conventions.
Given Syria’s long history of media repression under the former regime, this approach poses a potential threat to recently achieved democratic gains, as it could legitimize censorship under a moral guise, thus hindering the press’s role in monitoring power and exposing corruption.
Furthermore, the absence of independent syndicate representation in drafting the code undermines its professional legitimacy and contradicts the transitional spirit that necessitates strengthening the partnership between government entities and civil society.
The Syrian Future Movement notes that Reporters Without Borders’ (RSF) 2025 World Press Freedom Index, published in May 2025, ranked Syria 177th out of 180 countries, with an overall score of 15.82/100, remaining in the “very serious situation” category, despite some relative improvement compared to its 2024 ranking of 179. The political and security indicators remain very low (170 and 178 respectively), reflecting the urgent need for fundamental reforms to protect media independence and the safety of journalists, especially after the fall of the former regime in December 2024.
The Syrian Future Movement believes that building a free and independent media is a fundamental element of its vision for the future of Syria: a state built on the foundations of true democracy.
Therefore, we call for:
Suspending the implementation of the current media code and redrafting it through a comprehensive national dialogue led by independent unions, such as the Syrian Journalists Association and the Syrian Journalists Union, under the supervision of specialized international organizations like the International Federation of Journalists and UNESCO, to ensure its voluntary and professional nature.
Developing transitional media legislation that protects freedom of expression, with independent mechanisms for addressing professional complaints without executive interference, drawing inspiration from successful experiences in transitional states.
Strengthening the capacities of journalists through joint training programs between the government and civil society organizations, focusing on professional ethics and legal protection, so that the media becomes a partner in nation-building, not an adversary.
Supporting the establishment of an independent national media authority comprising representatives of professionals and civil society to monitor media policies and ensure their compliance with international standards for press freedom.
The Syrian Future Movement reaffirms its commitment to supporting press freedom as a fundamental right and a national duty, and calls on all parties to engage in constructive dialogue to avoid any backsliding on democratic gains.
The Syrian Future Movement will continue to closely monitor this issue, emphasizing that the Syria of the future deserves a free media that reflects the diversity of its people and contributes to building a just and prosperous society.
