Journalists & Freedom of Expression Advocates

Syria remains one of the most dangerous places in the world for professional and citizen journalists, media technicians, Internet activists, and those who defend freedom of expression. In 2012, the Committee to Protect Journalists ranked Syria as the most dangerous country for journalists to do their job. In 2013, Syria ranked 176 out of 179 countries in the Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index. The low ranking reflects the 143 journalists and Internet activists killed in Syria in 2012, when Reporters Without Borders identified the country as the world’s deadliest for journalists. Reporters Without Borders estimates that since the beginning of the uprising in March 2011, the government has imprisoned at least 150 professional and citizen journalists. The government has also targeted others who have expressed opposition or promoted freedom of expression.