The Syrian Ministry of Information has unveiled a new Media Code of Conduct intended to regulate the media environment in Syria, emphasizing professional ethics and social responsibility.
The Syrian Ministry of Information presented a new "Media Code of Conduct" on February 15, 2026, during an event that emphasized the importance of professional media practices and responsible communication under the theme "Professional Media... Responsible Words." The code comprises ten articles focusing on ensuring human dignity, social stability, and the development of a modern media infrastructure in Syria. It seeks to establish a framework that governs media conduct aligned with these principles.
Central to the code is the assurance of freedom of opinion and expression as a fundamental human right. This assertion is grounded in several legal references, including Article 13 of Syria's constitutional declaration of 2025, which guarantees freedoms related to opinion, expression, and press publishing. Additionally, it aligns with international human rights standards such as Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which recognizes the right to freedom of opinion and expression, along with the provisions from the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights that protect individuals from persecution based on their beliefs.
In outlining the rights and responsibilities of media professionals, this code aims to provide a comprehensive framework for ethical media practices while promoting respect for human dignity. By doing so, it aspires not only to elevate the standard of journalism in Syria but also to foster an environment conducive to societal stability and growth, responding to the need for a reformed media landscape in the country post-conflict.
