Journalism in a Free Syria

<p>What is the role of accountability journalism in post-Assad Syria? We explore this question with Syrian journalists Lighthouse digital investigator Bashar Deeb and investigative journalist Mais Katt, who talk about their first investigation in a newly free Syria. </p><p>Under the Assad regime, hundreds of Syrian children were hidden in orphanages to extort their parents. A major international charity knew, but kept silent. </p><p>Beatriz and Tessa speak with Bashar and Mais about the experience of reporting from Syria for the first time in 14 years and what it means to uncover injustice in a country still healing from dictatorship. We discuss the story’s impact and how the reporting empowered the families still searching for their children and for justice and accountability. </p><p>They also speak with Lighthouse Senior Editor, Charlotte Alfred, who explains how this cross-border collaboration came together and why international partnerships remain vital for accountability journalism in Syria.</p><p>Investigations mentioned: <a href="https://www.lighthousereports.com/investigation/syrias-stolen-children/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">Syria’s Stolen Children</a> </p><p>Hosts: Beatriz Ramalho da Silva, Tessa Pang</p><p>Sound editing and design: <a href="https://spoovio.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">Spoovio - Audiovisual Productions</a> </p><p><a href="https://www.lighthousereports.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">Website</a> - <a href="https://x.com/LHreports" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">X</a> - <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/lhreports.bsky.social" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">BlueSky</a> - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lighthousereports/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">Instagram</a> - and you can email us at backlight@lighthousereports.com </p>