In Lebanon, freedom of expression is very limited. Citizens are subject to legal action, including punishment of up to three years in prison for defamation of public officials, insulting the head of state, religion, and the military (https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2023/08/lebanon-new-campaign-calls-on-parliament-to-reform-insult-and-defamation-laws/).

In 2024, the country ranked 140 out of 180 on the Reporters Without Borders Press Freedom Index. This ranking reflects the very complicated environment for journalists and writers, as public officials attempt to maintain public order and national security by restricting speech. Yet, most media networks are owned by local families with political ties, while party channels are operated by Hezbollah (https://rsf.org/en/country/lebanon).

When it comes to public demonstrations, those are permitted, but authorities intervene if the protests are unstable. Although censorship in Lebanon was lifted on January 25, 1977, freedom of expression has been very limited for the people of the nation (https://www.nytimes.com/1977/01/04/archives/lebanon-begins-press-censorship.html).

Recently, there have been calls for reform, with Lebanese officials promising laws to improve freedom of expression and a decrease in the rate of censorship. However, as long as Hezbollah remains in Lebanon, the Lebanese people won't have full freedom of expression.

Yet, progress has been slow, and activists, the United Nations, and Amnesty International remain unsure whether true change will ever be put in place, but citizens continue to use their voices to fight for free speech.

Overall, the many restrictions on freedom of expression limit debate and accountability and contribute to the growing fear of consequences for Lebanese citizens and media professionals.