Syria steps up efforts to counter hate speech, promote responsible media

As the world marks the International Day for Countering Hate Speech on June 18 amid growing international concerns over the spread of inflammatory rhetoric, Syria is stepping up efforts to promote responsible media and combat hate speech.

The Syrian efforts have accelerated following the introduction earlier this year of a Professional and Ethical Code of Conduct for the media sector. The code is designed to counter hate speech, raise professional standards, encourage responsible journalism, and reinforce respect for diversity.

Director of Press Affairs at the Ministry of Information Omar Haj Ahmad said the ministry is incorporating the code’s principles into editorial policies while developing mechanisms to detect and address hate speech at an early stage. He said the approach is based on awareness and professional guidance rather than punitive measures.

Head of Syria’s Journalists’ Union Mahmoud Shahoud said the union has translated the code into binding professional commitments, requiring members to pledge adherence to ethical standards, including the rejection of hate speech. He stressed the importance of accountability and professional self-regulation.

Akram al-Ahmad, chairman of the Syrian Charter of Honor for Media Professionals and a member of the drafting committee, said the next phase will focus on implementing the code through newsroom policies, training programs, and complaint mechanisms.

He added that promoting responsible discourse is particularly important as Syrian society works to strengthen trust and social cohesion after years of division, noting that implementation will rely on professional awareness and institutional engagement.

The code was developed through a consultative process involving nearly 1,000 journalists across Syria and is based on national and international legal frameworks governing freedom of expression and professional responsibility.

The International Day for Countering Hate Speech was established by the UN General Assembly in 2021 to promote efforts to prevent and address hate speech in all its forms.

SANA