Syrian Center for Media Seeks Researcher to Combat Hate Speech in Syrian Media

The Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression (SCM) has opened applications for a remote researcher position focused on hate speech and disinformation in Syrian media. The position, which closes on October 25, 2025, represents a critical effort to address misinformation in one of the world’s most complex media environments.

SCM, an independent non-governmental organization, works to promote freedom of expression, human rights, and justice in Syria. The organization envisions a democratic society built on equality and dignity for all citizens, with strong protections for human rights and rule of law.

The research project falls under SCM’s Media and Freedoms Program and aims to produce comprehensive analysis of fact-checking mechanisms and disinformation countermeasures specifically tailored to the Syrian context.

“This research comes at a crucial time when misinformation and hate speech continue to shape public discourse in conflict-affected regions,” said an SCM representative. “Understanding these dynamics is essential for building more resilient media systems.”

The selected researcher will develop a detailed methodology by November 15, 2025, and create research tools including questionnaires targeting Syrian journalists and guidelines for focus group discussions. Following data collection and analysis, they will submit a draft report by February 15, 2026, with the final version due February 28, 2026.

The position requires significant expertise, including at minimum a bachelor’s degree in media studies, journalism, communications, or a related field. Candidates must demonstrate at least five years of experience conducting media research, with particular emphasis on conflict or transitional contexts.

Technical requirements include proficiency with social media analysis tools, strong research methodology skills, and experience designing research questions and facilitating focus groups. Perhaps most importantly, candidates must possess deep knowledge of the Syrian media landscape and the socio-political factors influencing media narratives within the country.

Media analysis experts note that Syria represents a particularly challenging environment for such research. Years of conflict have fragmented the media landscape, with various factions controlling different information ecosystems. Foreign influence, government censorship, and the proliferation of partisan outlets have created an environment where disinformation thrives.

“Research on hate speech in Syrian media is particularly vital given the country’s ongoing reconciliation efforts,” said Dr. Amina Hassan, a media scholar specializing in conflict zones. “Addressing these issues requires both technical expertise and deep contextual understanding of Syria’s complex information environment.”

The contract will run approximately four months, from October 30, 2025, through February 28, 2026. Applications are being accepted through an online form, with evaluations weighted 70% toward professional qualifications and 30% toward financial considerations.

This research initiative reflects growing global concern about the role of disinformation in conflict zones. Similar efforts have been undertaken in other regions experiencing political instability, including Ukraine, Myanmar, and parts of sub-Saharan Africa.

For Syrian media workers, the research could potentially provide valuable insights into combating harmful narratives while maintaining journalistic integrity under difficult circumstances. The findings may also inform broader policy discussions about platform regulation and media literacy initiatives in conflict-affected regions.

Interested candidates can find complete application details and submission instructions on SCM’s website.