Lebanon's proposed information law raises concern for press freedom, limits Palestinian media jobs

A proposed information law in Lebanon, recently approved by joint parliamentary committees, is raising significant concerns among journalists and press freedom advocates. The law includes provisions that could punish the "dissemination of false or harmful information" with up to three years in prison and the possibility of forced labor, according to Lebanese media reports.

“

We need a modern law, but this text is confusing.

Critics argue that a broad interpretation of Article 104 could undermine Lebanon's press freedom. A source close to the journalists' union described the article as "a step backward," noting that Lebanon's existing media law from 1994 ensures journalists face only fines, not prison sentences, for their work. The Lebanese journalists' union has stated it "rejects the bill, as it lacks a national vision for media and does not protect media professionals."

“

a step backward

Maharat, an NGO focused on freedom of expression, expressed concern that the amendment to Article 104 reopens the door to criminal prosecution. They argue this contradicts reforms aimed at limiting liability to the civil sphere, except in cases of serious incitement. The NGO called for the article to be deleted or reworded.

“

rejects the bill, as it lacks a national vision for media and does not protect media professionals.

Dr. Omar Nashabe, a Lebanese criminal justice scholar, highlighted the difficulty in defining "harmful" news. He questioned the dividing line between journalistic error, incomplete information, disputed accounts, and deliberate fabrication, and who would determine the degree of harm. Nashabe warned that the lack of precise definitions could lead to selective application of the law against investigative and opposition journalism. Additionally, Article 63 of the law is noted as potentially limiting positions that Palestinians in Lebanon can hold.

“

the amendment to Article 104 is very concerning because it adds a clause to the provisions on incitement to hatred related to the dissemination of false or misleading news.