Beirut: The embassies of Canada, Finland, and the United Kingdom, as part of the Media Freedom Coalition, have expressed their support for Lebanon's newly adopted media law. This law marks a significant development in updating the nation's media framework, a milestone achieved after extensive advocacy and legislative efforts by Lebanese stakeholders.

According to National news agency - Lebanon, the joint statement issued by the three embassies on August 13, 2026, acknowledged the law's potential in fortifying media freedom, transparency, and independent journalism. Key reforms include provisions for media ownership and financing transparency, regulation, and the enhancement of the digital media landscape.

However, the statement also highlighted concerns from both Lebanese and international freedom of expression advocates, particularly regarding Article 104(b) and the continued imposition of custodial penalties on journalists under certain conditions. The embassies lauded Information Minister Paul Morcos for his pledge to address these issues and encouraged prompt action.

The embassies emphasized the importance of aligning restrictions on freedom of expression with international human rights standards, advocating that such restrictions should be clearly defined, necessary, and proportionate. They underscored the need for journalists to operate without the threat of imprisonment while performing legitimate journalistic duties.

Highlighting the importance of effective implementation, the statement called on relevant authorities to ensure that the new law is applied in a manner consistent with its commitment to freedom of expression and media freedom. The embassies asserted that true reform hinges on implementation that bolsters journalist protections and supports a diverse, independent media environment.

The embassies also praised the contributions of Lebanese civil society organizations, media professionals, legal experts, and public officials in crafting the law, expressing optimism for ongoing collaboration on its implementation and further alignment with international standards.