Beirut: Minister of Information, Attorney Dr. Paul Morcos, emphasized the Ministry's commitment to combating hate speech and advancing media law reforms during an interview with MTV Channel. He highlighted efforts being made in collaboration with international organizations, such as UNESCO and UNDP, as well as production companies. These efforts involve awareness campaigns, broadcast videos, and intensive media engagements across various platforms, alongside specific provisions in a new draft media law.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Minister Morcos underscored the importance of exercising freedom of expression within a responsible framework to avoid infringing on others' dignity or religious beliefs. He urged the public to express political opinions respectfully. Addressing negotiations, Morcos stated the goal is to secure Lebanon's rights through diplomatic channels, noting President Joseph Aoun's clear and decisive stance on maintaining an independent negotiating position.
Morcos further clarified his ministerial role, acknowledging occasional confusion between personal views and his duty to convey Cabinet decisions. He stressed the importance of ministerial solidarity, even in the face of disagreement, especially when tasked with explaining government decisions transparently to the public.
The minister also addressed the challenging media landscape, reiterating the sacredness of freedom of expression in Lebanon while calling for a rejection of incitement and division. Despite having no authority over social media platforms, the Ministry continues to encourage responsible use and prevent misuse through appeals and ongoing communications.
On the matter of media law reform, Morcos expressed concern over potential delays, warning that political factors could hinder its approval. He noted the significant improvement in Lebanon's press freedom ranking, which rose from 140 to 115 globally during the current presidential term, and expressed optimism for further advancements following the law's adoption.