Special programs and humanitarian initiatives in the immediate aftermath of the blast were made possible by the outpouring of support by SAT-7 supporters. It also brought believers around the world together in prayer for Lebanon.

Amid the instability and humanitarian crisis still plaguing Syria, a spark of hope shines from a children’s centre in Damascus, where teachers use SAT-7 KIDS programs and songs to help teach a lifegiving curriculum to children who have witnessed conflict and gone through the upheaval of displacement.

During COVID-19 lockdowns, SAT-7’s ability to resource and encourage viewers in their own homes became vital as on-the-ground organisations were forced to scale back. Nicoletta Michael, SAT-7’s Development Manager, shares how new partnerships have developed and how working together can maximise the impact of all.

“We fear for our children and we fear society” says Fadia*, who spoke on the SAT-7 ARABIC program You Are Not Alone about the abuse she faces and the stigma that keeps her trapped. Fadia’s call, which shows millions in the Middle East the egregious harm of domestic violence, comes as reports of abuse have surged during COVID-19.

Viewer engagement with SAT-7 ACADEMY doubled in March, as Middle Eastern children and parents accessed the education and support offered by the brand in large numbers. As lockdowns continue, there has been a particularly strong, emotive response to the children’s rights campaign produced by the gameshow Puzzle.

SAT-7 ACADEMY’s educational resources are being packaged and presented on YouTube for children currently out of school, primary care givers and education focused NGOs working on the ground that have had to suspend education activities due to the coronavirus lockdown.

With families isolated at home across the Middle East due to Covid-19, children’s rights in the region are under intensified threat. At this crucial time, SAT-7 KIDS premieres music videos highlighting issues including mental health, child marriage, and violence, created by young people and beamed straight into viewers’ homes.

As a trusted source of information in the Middle East, SAT-7 ACADEMY now offers lifesaving advice amid the coronavirus pandemic. With an engaging approach to providing public health information, the social development brand’s new series of Expert Advice shorts and social media tips are helping viewers slow the spread of the virus.