1972 — 2018
Journalist, Activist, and Voice of Syrian Freedom
Assassinated on November 23, 2018, alongside his companion Hammoud Juneid, but his voice and legacy continue to inspire millions around the world.
“We fight with words, because we believe words are stronger than bullets.”— Raed Fares
Biography
Raed Fares was born in Kafranbel in 1972. He worked in business before the revolution, but when the Syrian uprising erupted in 2011, he found himself at the heart of peaceful resistance. He realized that weapons were not the solution, and that the Syrian people's voice needed to reach the world in a different way.
He began with a group of volunteers creating satirical banners in English, addressing global public opinion. These banners became famous for their wit and humor, until Kafranbel became known as "the conscience of the Syrian revolution".
In 2013, he founded Radio Fresh, Syria's first free radio station, which broadcast music and educational programs at a time when music was banned by extremist groups. He survived multiple assassination attempts before being martyred in November 2018.
Journey
1972
Born in Kafranbel
2011
Started the banner movement
2013
Founded Radio Fresh
2014
Survived assassination attempt
2018
Martyred on November 23
Legacy
Founded the satirical banner movement that became a global symbol of peaceful resistance
Founded the first free radio station in Syria in 2013, broadcasting music and awareness programs
Featured in international documentaries that brought Kafranbel's story to the world
Received international awards honoring his peaceful struggle and courage
Words
“Laughter is our weapon against tyranny.”
“Syria deserves to have its voice heard.”
Raed Fares' legacy lives on in every banner raised, and every voice calling for freedom