Trials in the Economic Security Court, which hears cases involving currency violations and other financial offenses, are also conducted without procedural safeguards. In June, the government released approximately 250 political prisoners, including some members of banned Communist and left-wing parties as well as Lebanese and Muslim activists. However, hundreds of other political prisoners remain in jail. Freedom of expression is sharply restricted. All media are owned and operated by the government and the Ba'ath party.
Satellite dishes are illegal, although they are increasingly tolerated.
In April, government ministries and universities were connected to the Internet. Private access, however, does not exist. In 1998, the media increased reporting on regional issues, including the Middle East peace process, and a number of articles as well as TV programs criticized official corruption and government inefficiency. Nonetheless, coverage of many topics can result in prosecution. At least ten journalists were imprisoned in Syria in 1998, according to Human Rights Watch and the Committee to Protect Journalists.