Media of Syria

The media of Syria consists primarily of television, radio, Internet, film and print. The national language of Syria is Arabic but some publications and broadcasts are also available in English and French. While television is the most popular media in Syria, the Internet has become a widely utilized vehicle to disseminate content. Transcending all available media, the government seeks to control what Syrians see by restricting coverage from outside sources. Syria has consistently been ranked as one of the most repressive countries in the world in terms of press freedom. The media has been completely state-controlled since the Syrian Arab Republic came into existence in 1964. Since then, state and non-state news sources have constantly vied for a voice in an environment unfriendly to journalistic freedom. Publications and broadcasts are monitored by members of the government. Government control extends to journalistic freedom as well. Syria is ranked as one of the most dangerous places in the world for journalists. There were 28 journalists killed in combat in 2012. The Ba'athist regime which ruled Syria until the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011 has been responsible for the abduction and murder of several independent journalists such as Ferzat Jarban