Reports | 25 05 2020
By: Hala Kudmani
The sheer magintude of Syrians' sacrifices for freedom should—despite the enormity of their current tragedy—prompt them to identify and unite with the French people in defense of freedom of expression, that became the target of assassins in the operation against the magazine "Charlie Hebdo."
Only hours after the terrorist attack against "Charlie Hebdo" tens of thousands of ordinary French citizens spontaneously descended to their town squares—especially "Place de la Republique" [Republic Square] in Paris—as if they were one family with on tragic suffering. The need to rally after the shock was the primary motivation for the vast public march to the streets, which bathed in an unsual silence and tranquility where they usually are bustling and noisy. Then came a kind of satisfaction to the people when they witnessed the masses congregate, and the first cries of "Freedom of Expression! Freedom of Expression!" rang in the air.
The "Charlie Hebdo" of Wednesday, January 7th, neither was the deadliest terrorist attack Europe or the world had witnessed, nor was it the most bloody or heaby in human loss. The events of September 11, 2001 in New York notwithstanding; several European capitals—including Madrid and London—had previously suffered terrorist bombings perpetrated by extremists in train or subway stations, killing dozens of ordinary civilians. But what distinguished the Paris operation was the terrorists targeting a newspaper's editorial team, therefore freedom of expression, therefore the sanctum of any democracy.
The French, through their own Revolution, are champions and leaders of human rights the world over; the French Revolution which was launched for the release of prisoners of the Bastille in 1789. These sanctities form the essence of their history and the basis of their national coherence. Therefore, when millions of French move onto the streets on Sunday January 11, of all ages and political affiliations, led by the President of the Republic, to confirm their rallying around the founding principles of the nation—they may also encourage other peoples to hold dear the values, significance, and dimensions of freedom.
The promise of freedom is worthy of sacrifice. This promise, in addition to them enjoyment of all its daily benefits, holds the power of national and human unity. May the Syrian people continue their quest for freedom—even though they are paying a far too dear price therefore.
* Opinion articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Radio Rozana.