Minister of Information Hamza al-Mustafa met with staff from the External Information Department to review its performance over the past year, highlighting efforts to strengthen Syria’s engagement with international media. The meeting formed part of ongoing evaluations of central departments within the ministry.
Mustafa pointed to several initiatives aiming to increase openness while improving communication with foreign journalists. In coordination with the Ministry of Interior and border authorities, the department facilitated the entry of over 5,000 foreign journalists since the country’s political transition. He said the ministry adopted a policy of engagement focusing on providing information to reporters, researchers and institutions, while monitoring published content to improve coverage quality.
Outreach Efforts Extend Beyond Borders
The minister also highlighted the “Arrow” program, which seeks to connect with Syrian figures abroad and strengthen communication channels beyond the country’s borders. He described the initiative as part of broader efforts to reinforce the national narrative internationally and build trust with audiences outside Syria.
In parallel, the ministry expanded its focus to include academic and youth engagement. A training program targeting English-speaking university students continues to develop participants’ skills and involve them in external communication efforts. Officials say the program aims to strengthen youth participation in shaping the country’s international presence.
Academic Collaboration and Diaspora Engagement
The ministry is also preparing an expanded version of the Western Researchers Conference, following an evaluation of last year’s event. The upcoming gathering is expected to include Syrian researchers from within the country alongside academics from Western institutions, with the goal of broadening dialogue and collaboration.
As part of its outreach strategy, the ministry announced the creation of a specialized office dedicated to diaspora affairs in the media. The office will focus on tracking coverage related to Syrians abroad and highlighting notable achievements within expatriate communities.
‘National Brand’ Initiative Signals Next Phase
Looking ahead, Mustafa described the past year as a foundational stage for external media work. He said the ministry will now focus on strengthening its international presence through practical measures and by drawing on global experiences.
Among the planned initiatives is the launch of a “National Brand” project, which aims to improve Syria’s international image. The effort will build on what officials describe as progress in press freedom indicators and shifts in global perception.
This announcement coincided with Syria’s improved ranking in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders. The country rose 36 places, from 177th in 2025 to 141st in 2026, marking one of the most significant changes in the index that year. According to the report, all five measured indicators showed improvement, with the legal framework among the most notable areas of progress.
