Dynamics over the past years in Lebanon call for an urgent and critical discussion of the situation of freedom of expression in the country. The country has experienced an increased atmosphere of fear, repression of freedom of speech, and shrinking space for critical public debate and discussion about Lebanon’s socio-political reality.
The evidence on the ground in Lebanon proves this worrying trend: over the past years, several political commentators, lawyers, journalists, and cultural figures have either been summoned and/or sentenced by various state bodies for public statements they made. In addition to these cases of official repression, there has also been an increase in harassment and defamation by non-official sources.
Therefore, UMAM D&R has developed tangible tools to protect freedom of opinion and expression in Lebanon through which to build collaboration among and with legal, human rights, media, activism, and research fields, sources, and perspectives.
See below for written and video guides on legal procedures of detention, arrest, and investigation, in addition to “how to act” tips during these procedures and in case of harassment or violence.
The initiative is supported by the German Embassy in Beirut - Human Rights Fund.
