Enhancing the Role of Lebanese Media: National Media Council Meets Online Platform Representatives

Abdel Hadi Mahfouz chaired a meeting of the National Council for Audiovisual Media with representatives of Lebanese online platforms, attended by a large number of sites from various regions, to discuss the state of Lebanese media in the country.

Mahfouz emphasized that online media has become the primary source of information in Lebanon due to its speed in disseminating news, its ability to overcome geographic barriers, and its low operational costs. He noted that the number of platforms registered with the Council has reached 1,200 sites, enabling comprehensive coverage across Lebanese territories and contributing to the international dissemination of news from the Middle East.

Mahfouz highlighted that protecting online media has been a priority under former Speaker Nabih Berri through the parliamentary media committee. He also noted that President **Joseph Aoun granted legitimacy to online media by allowing coverage of presidential palace activities under authorization from the National Media Council**.

He also stressed the importance of the upcoming meeting with President Dr. Nawaf Salam on the following Monday to review the state of Lebanese audiovisual and online media and to discuss the need to protect and regulate the sector, ensuring its legal and regional standing. He further highlighted the necessity for the Ministry of Labor and the Director of Social Security to cover medical and maternity expenses for workers in the sector.

As part of efforts to expand representation and participation, the National Media Council announced that similar meetings will be held in all Lebanese governorates. MP George Adwan, Chair of the Administration and Justice Committee, emphasized the importance of understanding the state of online media and holding joint meetings with the Council and the temporary committee of platforms. He noted that the new media law should maintain the separation between audiovisual, online, and print media, free from political bias, as outlined in previous policies under the late Prime Minister Rafic Hariri.

Also read: Lebanese media: Yumna Shrei… Departure Shocks Media and Art Circles