Independent Syrian Media Takes Daring Stance Against Radicalism
In the heart of Syria's Idlib province, Raed al-Fares, the co-founder and director of Radio Fresh, continues to be a beacon of hope and resistance against oppressive forces. Despite being attacked by the al-Nusra Front in 2016, al-Fares remains an active figure in local civil society projects and the media scene.
Established in 2012, Radio Fresh is one of the many activities of the Union of Revolutionary Bureaus (URB), a grassroots organization that empowers community members in Idlib province. The station dedicates the first two hours of the day to Quranic texts, transmits prayers five times a day, and airs four religious programs. However, it also serves as a platform for activists, including al-Fares, to challenge extremists' rules on women's dress code and education, and to counter religious extremism using Islamic values.
In January 2016, the Nusra Front stormed the headquarters of Radio Fresh and arrested al-Fares and journalist Hadi Abdullah. The incident generated a strong reaction on social media, with solidarity posts proliferating on activists' pages. After hours of negotiations, Abdullah provided guarantees that al-Fares would not post messages critical of Sharia on Facebook again, and he was released.
Al-Nusra had to admit that raiding the station was a mistake and promised to return all their equipment. However, this was not the first time al-Nusra had attacked the station. In January 2015, they raided it and continued to harass and interfere in civilian affairs. Protests against al-Nusra's aggression and strict rules have been held across Idlib, including in Maraat al-Numan, Khan Shaykhoun, and Salqueen.
In addition to his work at Radio Fresh, al-Fares launched a campaign to raise awareness of basic human rights and against religious extremists' practices. He explained that people have deeper knowledge of citizenship, the state, and human dignity five years into the revolution. However, the situation in Syria remains dire, with an estimated 500,000 people living under siege, including in Madaya, where cases of death due to starvation have been reported.
Despite the challenges, al-Fares continues to be a voice of resistance. He stated that despite being arrested and attempted killings by al-Nusra and the Islamic State, the values and cause he established will always live. His commitment to the cause is evident in the continued operation of Radio Fresh and the URB, which currently has 475 employees with various offices focusing on education and women and children empowerment.
As of the latest information in 2025, Raed al-Fares appears to be alive, continuing his involvement with the grassroots media work connected to Radio Fresh, despite the earlier attack by al-Nusra Front in 2016. His story serves as a testament to the resilience of the Syrian people and their determination to fight for their rights and freedom.
[1]: Source 1 [3]: Source 3
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