Lebanese Ministry of Information
Minister of Information, Paul Morcus, emphasized the fundamental role of free and independent media in democratic societies during a UNESCO-led celebration of World Press Freedom Day 2025, held under his patronage in Beirut. Speaking before media professionals, tech experts, and youth journalists, Morcus highlighted that journalism is not only a pillar of democracy but also a voice for truth amid growing challenges, especially in the age of artificial intelligence.
“Without a free press, truth fades. Without freedom, truth is distorted,” Morcus declared, paying tribute to Lebanese journalists who lost their lives defending media freedoms. He stressed that freedom of the press is not a privilege but a right that must be upheld with both awareness and responsibility.
In the context of rapid technological innovation, Morcus underscored the need for journalism to adapt while staying rooted in human dignity and democratic principles. He reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to working with UNESCO and the Francophonie to combat disinformation, support fact-checking initiatives, and modernize media legislation.
“We are moving forward with a new media law that abolishes prison sentences and enshrines freedom,” Morcus said, calling on Parliament to urgently pass the draft. “Freedom dies if journalism falls silent,” the Minister concluded.
