Quorum Reached in the First Session of the General Assembly of the Syndicate of Theater, Cinema, Radio, and Television Actors in Lebanon
Beirut – The General Assembly of the Syndicate of Theater, Cinema, Radio, and Television Actors in Lebanon was held today, Sunday. Quorum was successfully reached during the first session, with a large turnout of syndicate members — reflecting a growing sense of union awareness and the commitment of actors to stay involved in their professional affairs and defend their rights amid the sector’s increasing challenges.
The session began with a moment of silence in honor of deceased actors, in recognition of those who carried art as a mission and left a lasting impact on Lebanese cultural memory.
A documentary video was presented during the session, summarizing the syndicate’s recent achievements — from social and cultural activities aimed at supporting the syndicate fund, to meetings with the Ministry of Information and other official bodies to explore ways of supporting the profession and safeguarding the rights of those working in it.
The session also highlighted humanitarian efforts, especially the provision of assistance to over 100 actors affected by the aftermath of the war — a powerful initiative reflecting the spirit of solidarity and mutual support within the syndicate body.
As part of the discussion on upcoming projects, actress Natasha Choufani gave a detailed presentation on the syndicate’s new digital platform, explaining that the website allows each member to input their personal information, professional biography, photos, and artistic works — creating a comprehensive database that facilitates communication with directors and production companies, and strengthens the visibility of Lebanese actors in the professional arena.
In honoring cultural icons, it was announced that a street in the town of Sin El Fil will be named after the late actor Pierre Chammoun, near his home, in tribute to his rich career and in recognition of his artistic legacy which left a lasting mark on Lebanese drama.
Colleague Osama Shaaban gave a transparent presentation of the financial tables detailing income and expenses — a move that reinforces the principle of transparency and accountability within the syndicate and helps build trust between the administrative committee and its members.
For his part, Syndicate President Naameh Badawi delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of unity during this critical phase. He announced that the “House of the Artist” project in the town of Choueir is officially underway, in collaboration with the municipality and with the support and contribution of Mr. Farid Bou Saeed, President of the United Mutual Artists’ Support Fund and Head of the Syndicate of Music and Singing Professionals in Lebanon.
Badawi stated that the groundbreaking ceremony will soon be scheduled for this long-awaited project, which will provide a haven for the dignity of artists — a space for both creativity and rest.
He also addressed the Audio-Visual Media Law, stressing the importance of implementing clauses related to local drama production, especially the provision that mandates the production of at least one Lebanese drama series per year. He revealed a series of meetings with several MPs and the Minister of Culture to push for the enforcement of this critical article, which guarantees the continuity of Lebanese drama and supports its professionals.
The session also included open discussions on various artistic and professional issues, during which members voiced their opinions and suggestions — demonstrating the vitality of the syndicate body and its commitment to growth and progress.
The session concluded with a reaffirmation by the syndicate council of its dedication to pursuing further professional and social gains, and to safeguarding the dignity of the Lebanese actor in the face of ongoing challenges. The council emphasized that the doors of the syndicate will remain open to every constructive idea and every free voice seeking to elevate the artistic scene in Lebanon.
