Beirut: Minister of Information, Paul Morcus, on Monday 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.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Morcus declared that without a free press, truth fades and emphasized that without freedom, truth becomes distorted. He paid tribute to Lebanese journalists who lost their lives defending media freedoms and stressed that freedom of the press is 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.
Morcus announced the progress towards a new media law that aims to abolish prison sentences and enshrine freedom, urging Parliament to urgently pass the draft. The Minister concluded by warning that freedom dies if journalism falls silent.