September 15, 2026
The National Endowment for Democracy (NED) has named the Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression (SCM) among the recipients of its 2026 Democracy Award, recognizing the Center’s work documenting violations, defending civic space, and advancing accountability in Syria.
This year’s award marks the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence. NED selected the recipients in recognition of their defense of fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression, freedom of the press, and freedom of assembly—rights that Syrians continue to demand and work to protect.
The Green Movement in Iran in 2009 gave many young people across the region hope that change was possible. It demonstrated the power of people’s voices when they stand up for their rights. For SCM, that moment brought renewed attention to a question at the heart of its work: how can a human rights organization support civic initiatives and help people make their voices heard in the face of repression?
The following year, SCM began its partnership with NED as the Endowment’s first Syrian partner. The Center takes pride in this exceptional relationship, which has endured since 2010 and become a model of partnership grounded in genuine commitment and mutual trust. Our partners stood beside us through our most difficult moments: the detention of colleagues, the uncertainty and risk of complete closure that followed, work amid violent armed conflict, and the continuation of that work from exile.
They were also with us through the deeply human moments that shaped SCM’s history: the pain of losing colleagues, as well as the success of relaunching the Center and, ultimately, obtaining legal registration in Syria under its own name for the first time. This is a partnership we value deeply. It gives the award a meaning beyond recognition: an acknowledgment of a long journey of work and perseverance.
Yara Badr, SCM’s Director of Programs and Development, said: “The Center has lived through exceptionally difficult periods, including the detention of colleagues and the continuation of our work from exile. Today, we are working in Syria during a transitional period that brings both new opportunities and new challenges. At every stage, we have adapted our methods to meet Syrians’ needs while preserving the Center’s independence and its commitment to freedom of expression, truth, and justice. We see this award as recognition of the resilience of our team and partners, and of the trust of everyone who has shared this journey with us.”
The award ceremony was held in the United States on September 10. SCM representatives were unable to attend because of restrictions on travel to the United States affecting Syrians.
SCM dedicates this recognition to its team and partners, and to the victims, survivors, and witnesses who have shared their testimonies in pursuit of truth and justice. The Center remains committed to documenting violations, defending rights and freedoms, and working with Syrians toward institutions grounded in the rule of law, accountable to the public, and protective of everyone’s dignity.
NED’s announcement of the award recipients:https://www.ned.org/ned-announces-recipients-of-the-2026-democracy-award/