Journalists’ meeting in Kobani discusses challenges facing media work

Council of the Free Media Union in Kobani held a meeting with journalists and representatives of media organizations to discuss the issues and problems facing journalistic work within the transitional government, the role played by media professionals to help ensure the success of the integration process, and the future of media in the region.

The meeting was opened with a minute of silence. The participants discussed the issues surrounding the journalistic missions where official institutions which became government entities refused to make statements to the journalists on the grounds that the media organizations are not licensed.

Journalists said these measures hinder coverage of official events and prevent information from reaching the public. They called for mechanisms to guarantee journalists’ right to access information and carry out their professional duties.

Participants also stressed the importance of Kurdish journalism in protecting the people’s achievements and values, preserving the Kurdish language, and passing it on to future generations.

They highlighted the marginalization and ongoing difficulties facing Kurdish journalism, which threaten its continuity despite its pivotal role at the current stage.

The meeting also discussed the role of journalists in explaining the provisions of the integration process to society and reporting on it transparently, as well as countering rumors and promoting access to reliable information.

Regarding the future of the media sector, participants stressed the need to unify media messaging, develop professional capacities, and establish joint coordination mechanisms among media organizations.

The Free Media Union Council in Rojava said it would continue its meetings in Damascus with authorities responsible for press and media affairs, with the aim of finding appropriate solutions and protecting journalists’ rights across different parts of Syria.

The meeting concluded with a recommendation to communicate with relevant authorities in the interim government to work toward overcoming the difficulties facing media professionals and ensuring a safe and professional working environment that enables them to perform their duties.

ANHA