Paul Morcos: Freedom is a responsibility... No place for hate speech in democratic life

Information Minister Paul Morcos affirmed that freedom of expression of political opinion is a fundamental pillar of democratic life, stressing that اختلاف should not turn into abuse or a diminution of others’ dignity, but should remain within the framework of responsible dialogue and mutual respect.

Morcos made these remarks during the launch of the “Youth Connectivity” program organized by DOT Lebanon in partnership with the British Council, aimed at promoting a culture of digital peace and empowering young people, in the presence of media and cultural figures and a number of participants from various Lebanese regions.

Morcos pointed out that societies around the world are facing a rise in hate speech, noting that the danger of this phenomenon is compounded in Lebanon because of its history marked by crises and wars, where diversity and differences of opinion can shift from a source of richness to a factor of division and tension if the logic of dialogue is absent.

The Information Minister explained that the ministry has adopted a multi-pronged approach to confronting hate speech and media disinformation, beginning with outreach to media institutions and the development of joint recommendations, moving through the legislative track by including provisions in the new media law draft that address this phenomenon and regulate the work of electronic websites in a way that enhances transparency and professionalism, and extending to community awareness campaigns.

He noted that the Ministry of Information has worked in cooperation with a number of international organizations to roll out awareness campaigns aimed at entrenching a culture of respect for others, stressing that the core message of these initiatives is: “Disagree with others, but preserve respect for them.”

Morcos also warned against social media turning into arenas of polarization and division instead of platforms for dialogue and communication, calling for the adoption of responsible discourse that steers clear of insult, defamation and verbal violence.

He concluded by emphasizing that confronting media disinformation is not only the responsibility of media institutions, but a collective responsibility, calling on citizens to verify the accuracy of news before circulating it, given that every individual has become a partner in producing content and protecting the truth.