Syrian coastal wildfires mobilize artists as the syndicate calls for urgent support

As wildfires continue to devour vast areas of Syria's coastal forests under harsh weather conditions, the country is witnessing a wave of humanitarian and popular mobilization, extending from the front lines of the flames to the social media pages of artists and media outlets — amid urgent calls for unity in the face of this environmental disaster.
Syrian Artists' Syndicate Takes the Lead
Amid the crisis, the Syrian Artists’ Syndicate has emerged as a key player on both the artistic and social fronts by announcing the launch of an emergency response campaign in cooperation with the Ministries of Social Affairs, Labor, and Emergency Services, to support firefighting efforts and alleviate the catastrophe's impact.
“Artists’ Syndicate”: Everyone Must Act Immediately
In an official statement shared on its Facebook page, the Syndicate called on all artists and Syrian citizens to provide both financial and moral support, emphasizing that the situation requires true unity and collective action. The statement concluded with a prayer: "May God protect our country from all harm and bless the efforts of all those working to contain this disaster."
The campaign received widespread engagement from within the artistic community. Director and Syndicate board member Zuhair Qanou’ posted a video on his personal Facebook page saying: “We’ve launched a donation campaign through the Artists’ Syndicate to support the authorities working to contain the fires. We hope all our fellow artists who can help will contribute. This is our collective responsibility.”
Artists Amplify the Message
Actress Rouaa Yassin shared the Syndicate's post across her social media platforms, encouraging her followers to actively participate, while producer Salah Taameh reposted the same video, emphasizing the importance of spreading awareness.
Meanwhile, Syrian actor Jihad Abdo delivered an emotional video message via Instagram, telling his followers: “The fires in our beloved coastal region are devouring trees, homes, and lives. Civil defense teams are working tirelessly day and night. This is a battle for life. If you can donate, please do. If you can volunteer, act now. Every helping hand makes a difference. Every raised voice brings hope. Help our people in the coast... Help Syria.”
Art in the Service of the Nation
This proactive response from the Syrian Artists’ Syndicate has highlighted the vital societal role of artists and cultural institutions, especially in times of major crisis — when symbolic gestures are not enough, and real, on-the-ground support becomes essential.
The campaign coincided with a wave of solidarity across social media, where many Syrian artists expressed their sorrow for what the coastal regions are enduring and reaffirmed their support for affected families, calling on everyone to contribute in every way possible.