Furn El Chebbak:Information Minister Dr. Paul Morcos underscored the significance of addressing hate speech, safeguarding freedom of expression, and promoting responsible public discourse during a lecture at La Sagesse University.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, the lecture, entitled "Combating Hate Speech and Promoting a Culture of Dialogue and Coexistence," was organized by the Faculty of Political Science and International Relations, led by Dean Dr. Antoine Sfeir. It was attended by University President Professor Joseph Saab, faculty members, students, and media representatives.
Dr. Morcos highlighted that combating hate speech has become an international priority, necessitating both legislative measures and heightened public awareness. He stressed that freedom of expression must respect human dignity, differing opinions, and individual rights.
Discussing Lebanon's new media legislation, Dr. Morcos noted that the reforms aim to update a nearly 70-year-old legal framework, enhance press freedoms, and reduce restrictive measures, particularly concerning pretrial detention. The legislation comprises over 120 articles, introduces regulations for online news platforms, ensures the right of reply, and establishes an independent 10-member national media authority to take over some powers from the Information Minister.
He pointed out that while the legislation prohibits pretrial detention in media cases, there are concerns about an exception for deliberately fabricating false news intended to cause harm. Dr. Morcos assured his commitment to addressing any provisions that might undermine fundamental freedoms.
Dr. Morcos also mentioned awareness campaigns developed in collaboration with UNESCO, UNDP, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and UNICEF to combat hate speech and encourage constructive dialogue.
He warned about the risks of disinformation and stressed the necessity of verifying information before publication or circulation. He highlighted the role of the National News Agency's specialized fact-checking unit in identifying and correcting false reports.
In a discussion with students, Dr. Morcos talked about political bias in the media, the importance of media literacy, and ongoing efforts to enhance Télé Liban's public-service role. He urged young people to embrace political diversity while avoiding personal attacks, defamation, and verbal abuse, emphasizing that disagreements should be rooted in mutual respect.