Assessing the freedom of expression of Syrian refugee media outlets

Abstract

Syrian post-uprising media outlets arose during the peaceful phase of the Syrian uprising in early 2011 (Salazar-Ferro, CPJ, 2014). Fewer than 30 of these outlets, funded by Western countries, survived and gradually moved to Turkey, escaping censorship and deteriorating security in Syria. In Turkey, they still face challenges such as security threats and an uncertain legal status. This article focuses on the challenges that threaten refugee reporters' freedom of expression. Its aim is also to bring an understanding of the techniques refugee journalists use to mitigate these challenges, which can inform other reporters in similar conditions. This research was carried out utilising a case-studies framework and speaking to seven editors in chief of post-uprising media outlets in Istanbul. It concludes that Syrian post-uprising media face severe restrictions to their freedom of expression, but survive through a mixture of collaboration, creativity and resourcefulness.