Media organizations in the so-called liberated areas face increasing difficulties due to security concerns and infrastructure shortages. The fact that most of them lack credibility and contribute to dangerous rumor spreading has led some journalists and media activists to tackle this crucial issue through new independent projects. One of such projects is Radio Fresh, led by a group of young activists from Idlib’s southern countryside. Radio Fresh is now broadcasting on the 90MHz FM wave from Kafranbel.
The radio was established not only to deliver local news, but as part of a long term strategy to raise awareness in the region. The editorial team summarizes the station’s objectives in the following: tackle social problems and that of the revolution in a constructive and solution-oriented manner, attempt to deliver the voices of ordinary people to the communities’ leadership and vice versa, raise awareness about the importance of individual participation and especially that of women, as well as paying special attention to the plight of children in the current crisis.
After a short trial period where the radio broadcasted for six hours daily, the radio was officially launched on July 1, 2013 and now its programming runs from 10am to 10pm.
The initial team of five people also grew to 13 by the time of its launch. “Our coverage of events is more direct because we are part of them, and we broadcast from inside of Kafranbel, with reporters spread in the surrounding towns and villages. Our programs aim to shed light on the positive and negative aspects at a time of revolution, and we aim to do it with utmost objectivity,” according to one team member in an interview with Syria Untold.
The radio’s programming is varied in its focus. Some of the programs probe the military situation like “An Hour with the Free Army”, which focuses on the problems on the front and aims to coordinate effort between different factions in the Free Syrian Army. The “News Station” program brings news about the military developments in Idlib and the rest of Syria. The talkshow “Our Guest” features interviews with influential local personalities. “People’s Concerns” brings stories from the community about its mostly affected citizens from the refugees or those suffering from war injuries. The radio also features humorous programs like “Hinblass” as well as programs aimed at children like “Kid Talk” which is anchored by two young girls. An important segment on the radio is aimed at raising awareness to medical issues and teaching basic skills of first response.
Some of the radio’s programs can be accessed here.
