Cultural accomplishments, future ambitions in NE, Syria

The North and East Syria Culture and Antiquities Authority declared that it achieved its success in implementing its 2024 cultural plan, hosting artists from various Syrian regions as well as countries bordering Syria and providing a free space for cultural and artistic creativity. In 2025, the Authority aspires to possess an integrated infrastructure to meet artistic work through the establishment of new modern studios and providing necessary equipment to cater to various artistic projects.

Murhaf al-Fahd, the Co-Chair of the Culture and Antiquities Authority, stated that the Authority is working to enhance the arts in the region and promote the cultural potential of the Autonomous Administration at the Syrian and international levels, highlighting the promotion of a culture of diversity and pluralism.

Murhaf al-Fahd reported that the Autonomous Administration, even in the light of the widespread damage to archaeological sites as a result of war and attacks by ISIS mercenaries, succeeded in formulating restoration studies under international standards. The restoration studies have received acclaim on the international level and were translated into steps to restore some archaeological sites.

The year 2024 witnessed tremendous development in the field of the visual arts, with exhibitions and forums organized in various parts of the Autonomous Administration. Wider events are to be organized this year by the Authority, with Syrian and local artists inside and outside Syria taking part. It made it clear that invitations had been sent to all.

In the context of cultural activities, the city of Qamishlo in al-Jazira Canton is preparing to host the ninth edition of the book fair, with the participation of publishing houses. The fair will include book signing events with authors from inside and outside Syria, in all languages and ethnicities, emphasizing the role of books in societies.

As an aid to literature, the Authority is hosting its third literary festival this year following the success of its inaugural event. The festival provides an opportunity for young people from various backgrounds to present their cultures and is conducted in three languages: Syriac, Arabic, and Kurdish. The festival has developed artworks and music pieces based on the winning works.

Despite certain security problems, the Autonomous Administration continues to make efforts to build tourism infrastructure and revive cultural and service facilities. The Authority assures its preparedness to launch cultural and tourism projects as soon as security stabilizes, such as natural and archaeological sites, says Murhaf al-Fahd.

Murhaf al-Fahd invited all Syrian writers and artists to visit North and East Syria, witness its cultural and artistic wealth, and participate in future events. He further mentioned that the ancient stereotype has already begun to disappear, with the increasing number of participants and recognitions by artists from across Syria.

During 2024 and 2025, a series of music videos has been released by the Culture Authority, including "For Life We Sing," representing Arab and Kurdish heritage, and "Decorate Syria," showing the unity of the people. The video clip "The Ship's Ferry" highlighting the intangible and tangible heritage of North and East Syria was also released

T/S

ANHA