• 22 Jan, 2026

Amid Syria’s long-standing war, new media platforms have emerged that rely on audio to document people’s real experiences, moving beyond superficial news coverage. One of the most notable of these initiatives is the podcast “Between People”, which chronicles the lives of residents in Idlib and its countryside

?What is the “Between People” Podcast

Between People is an audio program hosted by journalist Tim Al-Sioufi and produced with support from the Heinrich Böll Stiftung – Beirut Office, an organization that promotes culture and community dialogue in the Middle East. The podcast focuses on the lives of Syrians in Idlib, making it an important audio document for understanding the realities of society, highlighting social and humanitarian issues often overlooked by traditional media

Program Content

Episodes of this podcast go beyond news reporting. They include recorded segments, interviews with local residents, and personal narratives about daily life in Idlib. Topics covered by the program include

• Looting of antiquities in Idlib: The podcast discusses the large number of archaeological sites in the province and the challenges of preserving this historical heritage amid war and smuggling

• Daily experiences of residents: Locals from Idlib and its countryside share their personal stories, covering issues from work and education to essential services such as water and electricity

Why the Podcast Matters

:Podcasts like Between People play a crucial role in areas with limited reliable media coverage because they

• Give a voice to the local community instead of relying solely on political or military analyses

• Document real, personal experiences that can help researchers and those interested in Syrian affairs understand life in Idlib more deeply.

• Provide audio material that can later be converted into written texts or published articles, helping preserve the oral memory of the community

Between People is a practical example of media efforts that build a bridge between audio and the written word, documenting real experiences of Idlib residents. It is not just a voice to listen to; it is a life story narrated by people who have lived through events and overcome many daily challenges