Louise Bernard, edited by Solène Delinger
France has refused a visa to a Syrian journalist who worked for French media. Hussam Hammoud notably reported on the abuses committed in his country by the jihadists of the terrorist group Islamic State. Several journalists’ unions and companies, including the SDJ of France 24, are asking the French authorities to reconsider their decision.
Nearly 40 societies of journalists or editors co-sign a forum in which they ask the government to grant a humanitarian visa to Hussam Hammoud “in the name of the freedom to inform and to be informed”. Hussam Hammoud is a Syrian journalist who has worked for several French media, taken risks to inform or help other French journalists to do so, especially with investigations on the Islamic State.
“France cannot remain silent and indifferent to its fate”
Because of his activity, he had to flee Syria with his family, to go to Turkey. But he is threatened with death in both countries. His visa application for France was refused. It is for this reason that French journalists have published this column: “France cannot remain silent and indifferent to its fate, when it has the power to act and protect a journalist who risked his life to inform our fellow citizens”. Hussam Hammoud had meetings at the French Embassy in Ankara to explain his situation. He only got a simple email as a response.
Destroying someone’s life and dreams is so easy by someone who has everything!
Today my asylum request to #France was rejected without any explanations. Idk what I could provide more than all the investigations I’ve worked on for the biggest French media agencies.
Thanks for nothing!!— Hussam Hammoud (@HussamHamoud) September 5, 2022
Syrian journalist who has collaborated for several years with French media, including French Radio, Mediapart and France 24Hussam Hammoud was notified on Monday, September 5, of France’s refusal to grant him a humanitarian visa.