Morcos calls for stronger measures against hate speech and disinformation
Information Minister Paul Morcos stressed the importance of combating hate speech, protecting freedom of expression and promoting responsible public discourse during a lecture at La Sagesse University in Furn El Chebbak.
The lecture, titled Combating Hate Speech and Promoting a Culture of Dialogue and Coexistence, was organized by the Faculty of Political Science and International Relations, headed by Dean Dr. Antoine Sfeir, in the presence of University President Professor Joseph Saab, faculty members, students and media representatives.
Morcos said combating hate speech had become an international priority requiring both legislative safeguards and greater public awareness. He emphasized that freedom of expression must be exercised with respect for human dignity, differing opinions and individual rights
Addressing Lebanon’s new media legislation, Morcos said the reforms aim to modernize a legal framework dating back nearly 70 years, strengthen press freedoms and reduce restrictive measures, particularly pretrial detention.
He explained that the legislation contains more than 120 articles, introduces regulations governing online news platforms, safeguards the right of reply and provides for an independent 10-member national media authority that would assume powers currently held by the Information Minister.
Morcos said the legislation explicitly prohibits pretrial detention in media cases but acknowledged concerns over an exception involving the deliberate fabrication of false news intended to cause harm. He affirmed his commitment to addressing provisions that could undermine fundamental freedoms.
The minister also highlighted awareness campaigns developed with UNESCO, UNDP, the International Committee of the Red Cross and UNICEF to counter hate speech and promote constructive dialogue.
Warning against the dangers of disinformation, Morcos underscored the importance of verifying information before publication or circulation. He pointed to the National News Agency’s specialized fact-checking unit, which works to identify false reports and correct inaccurate information.
During a discussion with students, Morcos addressed political bias in the media, the importance of media literacy and ongoing efforts to strengthen Télé Liban’s public-service role.
He concluded by urging young people to embrace political diversity while rejecting personal attacks, defamation and verbal abuse, stressing that disagreement must remain grounded in mutual respect.
