Our Story
Arta for Media and Development has been working on the ground in North-East Syria since 2013, telling stories that no one else would have told.
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We deployed our journalists to every corner of Rojava, as history unfolded in this forgotten region that became the centre of an international struggle.
In Raqqa, we witnessed the establishment, expansion and demise of the so-called Islamic Caliphate.
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We were present when ISIS besieged Kobani in 2014, and were also present when it was defeated after devastating the city.
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We witnessed Turkey’s incursion into Afrin in 2018, where a thriving city was depopulated and its inhabitants’ properties were looted.
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We were present when Serêkaniyê was occupied in 2019, and its demography was forcibly changed.
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Our reporters were up to the challenge. They told the stories of people who had been murdered, kidnapped, disappeared, displaced and starved, as well as the stories of those who had begun new lives.
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While our journalists risked their lives on occasion, their work and experiences helped Arta grow in strength and size.
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Arta has expanded from a small local radio station in a small town to a media organisation that runs three popular radio stations: Arta FM, Al-Furatiya and Zin FM. In addition, it has several studios across the region and a training and development centre in Amuda named the Arta Media Academy.
Our teams work in Amuda, Qamishli, Hasaka, Girkê Legê (Rimelan), Derik, Raqqa, Tabqa, Al-Hol and Al-Suwar (in the Deir Ezzor countryside).
We also have offices in Erbil (Iraqi Kurdistan) and in Haltern am See and Bochum (Germany).
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Throughout all this, we have remained convinced that excellent journalism can improve people's lives.
We brought people together when they clashed, by introducing Kurds to Arabs and Christians to Muslims and Yazidis.
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We told people's stories when they became homeless, and we held those responsible to account.
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We raised our voice and looked for answers when they faced challenges.
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We offered them hope through music events, celebrations and inspiring stories, and we told them stories about their parents and grandparents.
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When they got ill, we discussed their situation with doctors and offered advice.
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When women couldn't find jobs, at Arta they became managers, broadcasters, reporters, trainers and accountants.
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Beside our journalistic work, we are socially committed to helping people and giving back to the local community through various initiatives: education, training, sports, music, culture and financial assistance to those in need.
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Our principles and values guide our everyday work. We serve our audiences and communities without forgetting these ideals, and we cultivate a dynamic, healthy work culture that ensures our long-term viability.