Television and Radio Broadcasting in Syria: History, Current State and the Trend of Development

Abstract

In this article, the author gives a comprehensive analysis of the history and current state of the broadcasting system in the Syrian Arab Republic. The research focuses on the emergence of radio broadcasting in Syria and its spread since the 20s of the last century, the launch of Syrian television in the 1960s, the transition to satellite and digital broadcasting, and IPTV. The author pays special attention to the functioning of audio-visual media from the beginning of the war in Syria in 2011 to the present days. During this period, the role of mass media in Syrian society increased significantly. The media faced several challenges such as lack of funds, despite an increase in annual funding of the media industry, restructuring and integration of media companies to survive in the market, the flow of false and misleading news and reports broadcast by the anti-Syrian media, sanctions by the USA, European Union and League of the Arab States, persecution and terrorist attacks. The author analyzes the content of modern radio stations and TV channels as the production of socio-political programs and news increased during the war. Also, the author examines the legislative framework of broadcasting, the management and financing system, and advertising on radio and television. Such significant shortcomings of the media system as strict state control, mandatory censorship, and the underdevelopment of the advertising market are noted. The main conclusion of the research is that the almost ten-year war and the existence of broadcasting only in the public sector for more than 45 years are the main reasons for the nonstable and slow development of the Syrian media industry.