Syria's TV dramas test Ramadan series boundaries after Assad's fall

As Syria emerges from years of war and political change, returning and local creators are producing Ramadan dramas that address once-taboo topics, while some productions face censorship, social pushback and scheduling delays.

Ramadan is a long-standing season for serialized television in the Arab world, and Syrian productions have been central to that tradition. After years of civil war and political change following the end of the Assad era, Syria's TV industry is trying to re-establish itself. Creators who once worked apart because of exile or political divisions are now collaborating again. New series are tackling previously forbidden subjects, even as productions encounter institutional and social obstacles. Key developments: - Ramadan series remain a major cultural event and Syrian dramas have long been influential in the region. - The industry fractured during the conflict, with many creatives leaving Syria or working in exile. - Since the end of Assad's rule, some exiled actors and directors have returned and are working alongside local talent on new shows. - New productions are addressing once-taboo topics, including past state abuses and historical events such as the Hama massacre in 1982. - Some projects have faced social media criticism, script reviews by a National Drama Committee and delays in airing. Summary: The revival of Syrian Ramadan dramas has broadened the range of stories being told and helped reunite artists with differing pasts, but the sector still faces censorship questions, social tensions and limited resources. Undetermined at this time.