Morcos from Baabda: Freedom of expression is protected, but it must be exercised responsibly to safeguard civil peace

I briefed His Excellency the President on the current media discourse being circulated, particularly what is being published on social media, which he naturally follows closely amid these delicate circumstances.

Freedom of opinion, expression, and the media remains a fundamental and sacred right, enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and it cannot be undermined.

Emphasis was placed on the need to protect civil peace, especially in times of war, which requires that this freedom be exercised with responsibility and national awareness.

Everyone is urged to avoid hate speech, violence, incitement, and sedition, as words may have serious repercussions on internal stability.

The Council of Ministers discussed this issue during its last session, and it was confirmed that the Public Prosecution will be activated, upon the direction of the Minister of Justice, to combat crimes that go beyond the limits of freedom of opinion, expression, and the media.

The meeting also stressed the need to maintain a clear balance:

protecting and safeguarding freedom of expression while exercising it responsibly, particularly during this sensitive phase Lebanon is going through.