The British and Canadian ambassadors to Lebanon hosted a reception in Beirut to commemorate Lebanese Media Martyrs’ Day and World Press Freedom Day, paying tribute to journalists killed
while covering conflict and to media professionals continuing to work under dangerous conditions.
The event brought together Lebanese Information Minister Dr. Paul Morcos, former Information Minister Ziad Makari, Lebanese and international journalists, ambassadors from the Media Freedom Coalition — co-chaired this year by Finland — as well as members of parliament and representatives of non-governmental organizations.
Attendees observed a moment of silence in memory of journalists who lost their lives during the conflict.
In remarks delivered during the gathering, the ambassadors highlighted the critical role of journalists in documenting war and preserving the public’s right to information, despite mounting risks and pressures faced by media workers in Lebanon and across the region.
Lebanese Media Martyrs’ Day, observed annually on May 6, was originally established to honour intellectuals executed during the First World War. The occasion has since evolved into a national commemoration of journalists killed in the line of duty and a symbol of Lebanon’s enduring struggle for freedom of expression.
As co-chairs of the Media Freedom Coalition, the United Kingdom and Finland reiterated their condemnation of violence targeting journalists and media workers. They also called on Israeli authorities and all parties involved in the conflict to ensure journalists in Lebanon are able to carry out their work safely and without obstruction.
The ambassadors further stressed that threats to press freedom are not limited to wartime, warning against ongoing challenges including intimidation, censorship and the criminalisation of journalists.
British Ambassador Hamish Cowell said: “Today is about remembrance but it is also about resolve. Journalists play an essential role in bearing witness, documenting reality and telling difficult truths, often at great personal risk. The UK strongly condemns all attacks on journalists and calls on all parties to protect media workers and uphold international law. A free and independent media is fundamental to democracy and accountability in Lebanon and around the world”.
Canadian Ambassador Gregory Galligan said: “Media freedom is a cornerstone of democratic societies and essential for protecting human rights. Journalists must be able to do their jobs without fear of violence or reprisal. Canada is proud to stand alongside the UK and international partners in supporting journalists in Lebanon and around the world, and in calling for accountability and an end to impunity”.
