Beirut, Lebanon — As Lebanon’s lawmakers prepare to finalize a critical media law, a coalition of 14 rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch, urged legislators to prioritize the protection of freedom of expression. The evolving legislation, initially seen as a chance to bolster media rights, has raised alarms over proposed amendments that could undermine these freedoms.
The recommended changes to the draft law have come under scrutiny for potentially reintroducing penalties that stifle journalistic integrity. Advocates call for the elimination of criminal fines associated with defamation, blasphemy, and public criticism as well as the prevention of pretrial detention in cases involving speech. They also stress the importance of removing unwarranted barriers to the establishment of new media platforms.
The Administration and Justice Committee is set to reconvene on September 16 to continue deliberations on the media law, which has been in the works for over a decade. Originating from a 2010 initiative led by former Member of Parliament Ghassan Moukheiber and the Maharat Foundation, a Beirut-based organization championing media freedom, the drafting process has taken several turns.
The existing framework for criminal defamation has been notorious for targeting journalists, critics of the government, and activists, leading to intimidation and summons whenever public interest issues are reported. Observers have highlighted that any legal restrictions must comply with international standards, notably Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which safeguards the fundamental right to share and receive information. Restrictions deemed vague or overly broad could be interpreted as an infringement on these rights.
Initial drafts of the law included significant reforms such as abolishing pretrial detention for speech-related charges and repealing criminal defamation clauses. However, recent amendments suggested the reintroduction of pretrial detention under aggravated circumstances, especially for breaches related to personal dignity. Additionally, proposed changes could impose stricter reporting and licensing requirements, raising concerns about arbitrary limitations on media operations.
Since discussions began on July 29, 2025, the Administration and Justice Committee has maintained a level of confidentiality that advocates argue hinders public engagement. Transparency is viewed as crucial to ensuring that the final legislation upholds fundamental rights instead of restricting them.
As Lebanon approaches this pivotal moment in media law reform, the outcome will significantly impact the landscape of freedom of expression in the country, influencing how journalists operate and how critical voices are heard in public discourse.
This article was automatically generated by OpenAI, and the details presented may be inaccurate. Requests for retraction or correction can be sent to contact@publiclawlibrary.org.