Latest news with #Morcos
Gulf Today
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Today
AI key ‘component' of modern media operations
Arab ministers of information, senior officials, and media experts affirmed that the media landscape in the Arab world is undergoing a profound transformation driven by rapid advancements in the digital sphere. This necessitates a rethinking of media policies and the development of comprehensive Arab digital strategies that keep pace with emerging changes, laying the foundation for digital media that reinforces cultural identity and addresses key challenges. These insights were shared during a ministerial session organised by TRENDS Research & Advisory in collaboration with the 20th Arab Media Forum, held in Kuwait under the theme: "Media and the Virtual World: Transformations of the Media Landscape in the Digital Age". The session featured Dr. Ramzan Al-Noaimi, Bahrain's Minister of Information; Paul Morcos, Lebanon's Minister of Information; Ahmed Al-Muslimani, Chairman of the National Media Authority in Egypt; and Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS. It was moderated by Dr. Nader Karam. In his remarks during the session, Dr. Al-Ali emphasised that the media is undergoing an unprecedented transformation driven by the digital revolution. He noted that media is no longer confined to traditional outlets, but has become an open space where everyone participates, from individuals to corporations, from digital influencers to robots. Artificial intelligence, he explained, has become a central component in modern media operations, from analysing audience behaviour to content creation, combating fake news. Dr. Al-Ali highlighted that there are now over 4.7 billion active social media users worldwide and nearly 5 billion internet users, underscoring the urgent need for media strategies that can adapt to these massive shifts in audience behaviour and access channels. Dr. Al-Noaimi stated that the rapid transformations taking place globally today require a parallel media movement that adopts renewed strategies to foster creativity and innovation while preserving national values and principles. He called for the adoption of joint Arab media strategies that support the development and elevation of digital content. Unified Arab vision Morcos reiterated the pivotal moment the Arab media landscape is experiencing amid rapid technological advancement and digital transformation. He highlighted the fundamental shifts in communication structures and the evolution of the audience into an active partner in content creation. He called for a unified Arab vision to reform the media sector, proposing the establishment of an Arab fund to support digital media, the launch of a regional media training centre, and the creation of an Arab observatory for digital media ethics. Morcos emphasised the importance of shifting from a reactive approach to a proactive one in content creation. Al-Muslimani explained that the unprecedented volume of information generated by artificial intelligence tools is now reshaping traditional soft power tools. At the conclusion of the session, participants put forward a set of key recommendations, including: establishing Arab digital platforms to counter the influence of foreign media platforms on local audiences; launching regional initiatives to verify news and combat media disinformation; and investing in creative and entertainment content that resonates with Arab youth. Additionally, preparing a new generation of digital journalists equipped with technical and fact-checking skills; strengthening collaboration between media institutions and think tanks to produce reliable content aligned with rapid technological transformations; supporting the protection of Arab intellectual property; and encouraging regional and international media partnerships. WAM
L'Orient-Le Jour
07-05-2025
- Business
- L'Orient-Le Jour
Two Emirates Airlines plane arrive in Beirut after travel ban lifted
Two Emirates Airlines planes landed at Beirut airport, roughly a week after the United Arab Emirates announced the lifting of the travel ban to Lebanon imposed on its nationals since August 2023. According to the state-run National News Agency (NNA), the arrival hall of the airport was "decorated with flowers to welcome the plane and its passengers," and "a number of Emirati passengers expressed their joy at returning to Lebanon," following political changes, particularly citing the election of Joseph Aoun as president. "They also noted that the number of arrivals from the United Arab Emirates would increase in the coming days, expressing appreciation for the warm welcome they received," NNA continues. A third plane is expected on Wednesday. Morcos welcomes Emirati visitors at the airport Information Minister Paul Morcos, representing the president, welcomed passengers on Wednesday on the first two flights from the United Arab Emirates, following the lifting of the travel ban on Lebanon by Emirati President Mohammed bin Zayed. Morcos described it as a "commendable day in the history of Lebanese-Arab relations and relations with the Gulf states." He stated that "Lebanon's natural position" was to welcome its Emirati and Gulf brothers. "We await the arrival of all Arab nationals and from all parts of the world," he said, referring to the hoped-for lifting of the travel ban on Saudi nationals. "God willing, we will welcome them very soon. We are waiting for them and we welcome them to Lebanon." Noting that this initiative was "the cornerstone" of a series of government achievements under President Joseph Aoun, the minister said that the Emirati decision was preceded by the British lifting of the travel ban on Lebanon. He hoped that it would be followed by other similar initiatives from other countries, and expressed hope that this step would allow for the development of relations and tourism between Lebanon and Arab countries. "We want to encourage travel to Lebanon, thanks to the measures taken by the government, at Beirut airport, in tourist centers, hotels, restaurants, tourist regions," the minister added, saying that the security situation in Lebanon now allows it. "The government is determined to overcome any difficulties that may hinder the arrival of Arab nationals," Morcos stated. Regarding the measures taken by the authorities to restore the confidence of Arab tourists, he indicated that ministerial committees have been established to monitor the situation, and that results will be realized quickly. The announcement of lifting the travel ban to Lebanon for Emiratis was made following the first official visit by President Joseph Aoun to Abu Dhabi, where he was met by Emirati President, Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan. "It was decided to allow the movement of citizens after implementing the necessary measures to facilitate mobility between the two countries, while expressing the desire to enhance the level of diplomatic representation," the two heads of state said in a joint statement. This also implied that the visa procedure for Lebanese nationals wishing to travel to the UAE would also be simplified.
Nahar Net
06-05-2025
- Politics
- Nahar Net
UNESCO marks World Press Freedom Day: Reporting in Brave New World
by Naharnet Newsdesk 06 May 2025, 11:33 Under the global theme 'Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media', UNESCO marked on Monday World Press Freedom Day 2025 with a celebration, held under the patronage of Dr. Paul Morcos, Minister of Information. The event brought together media professionals, technology and AI experts, government representatives, civil society actors, and young journalists to reflect on the evolving relationship between technology and media in an era shaped by artificial intelligence. The celebration began with opening remarks from Ms. Costanza Farina, Director of UNESCO Beirut Office, and Minister Morcos. Both emphasized the critical importance of safeguarding the fundamental right to freedom of expression while also recognizing the transformative potential of AI for the media sector. 'Press freedom is not a privilege; it is a right that must be preserved with vigilance. In this age of innovation and artificial intelligence, it is imperative that journalism and technology evolve together, upholding the principles of truth, democracy, and human dignity. In this context, we reaffirm our commitment to working closely with UNESCO to promote the rights of journalists, safeguard our audiovisual heritage, and combat disinformation.' said Morcos. 'AI brings to Lebanon both great promise and significant risks,' said Costanza Farina, Director of UNESCO Regional Office in Beirut. 'On one hand, it creates new opportunities for people to access information, connect globally, and amplify underrepresented voices. On the other, it raises serious concerns about misinformation, surveillance, and digital manipulation — challenges that resonate deeply in our local context, where media independence often faces pressure. UNESCO has consistently supported Lebanon in navigating these technological and societal shifts, working closely with our institutional partner, the Ministry of Information, to promote a free, pluralistic, safe, and inclusive media landscape.' The day was also an opportunity to launch a new Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Campaign, developed by UNESCO in partnership with the Ministry of Information in Lebanon and the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). The campaign aims to raise public awareness on critical thinking and equip citizens with the tools to identify and combat fake news and disinformation. Building on this momentum, UNESCO handed over six cameras to field reporters from the National News Agency (NNA) and Télé Liban. The reporters had previously acquired fact-checking skills through a customized training program, which focused on combating disinformation and upholding media integrity in challenging contexts. A core feature of the event was a series of interactive thematic sessions that convened media professionals, AI experts, policymakers, academics, and civil society actors. The sessions provided a space for open discussion, shared insights, and dialogue on the practical and ethical implications of AI in media. Topics included AI's role in fighting and fueling disinformation, its effect on news production and media viability, and the challenges it poses to editorial independence and democratic discourse. These discussions fostered collective reflection and highlighted the need for robust safeguards and inclusive governance frameworks to protect press freedom. These thematic discussions were not only enriched by expert perspectives but also energized by the presence of young voices. The active involvement of a team of dynamic university students from the Youth Newsroom initiative added a hands-on learning component to the event. These aspiring journalists covered the sessions, conducted interviews, and produced stories as part of a structured training experience in professional reporting and media ethics. World Press Freedom Day 2025 provides a platform to examine how AI can both support and challenge the free flow of information, enhance press freedom, and contribute to democratic consolidation and sustainable development in a rapidly evolving digital world. It reaffirms UNESCO's commitment to promoting a media landscape that is free, inclusive, and grounded in human rights standards, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 16.10 to ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms. About UNESCO With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO has offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions. Its Director-General is Audrey Azoulay. 'Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed' – UNESCO Constitution, 1945.
L'Orient-Le Jour
02-05-2025
- Politics
- L'Orient-Le Jour
Information Minister Paul Morcos advocates for press freedom from Marseille
Information Minister Paul Morcos reaffirmed Lebanon's commitment to press freedom and the protection of journalists during the Mediterranean Journalism Conference in Marseille, speaking Monday on the sidelines of the event's opening ceremony. The conference brought together journalists and media professionals from across the Mediterranean Basin and Africa and was attended by Marseille Mayor Benoît Payan. In his remarks, Morcos stressed the need to safeguard journalism that is 'objective and true to its principles,' especially amid ongoing political tensions and economic hardships in the region. He praised what he called a 'hope for renewal' and a 'willingness for change' in Lebanon, embodied by the recent election of President Joseph Aoun and the formation of a new government led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. Morcos highlighted reforms undertaken by his ministry, including the drafting of a new media law in collaboration with civil society groups and journalists, with technical support from UNESCO. The proposed legislation aims to eliminate prison sentences for journalists and strengthen legal recognition of their rights, according to the state-run National News Agency (NNA). He also cited the fight against misinformation as a priority, pointing to the launch of a fact-checking platform on the NNA's website and the creation of training programs for journalists. Efforts to modernize state-run media through technical partnerships and the preservation of archives were also noted. The minister acknowledged Lebanon's drop in press freedom rankings. In the 2024 annual index published by Reporters Without Borders, Lebanon ranked 140th out of 180 countries, down from 119th the previous year. He argued that the decline occurred in the context of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah and does not reflect Lebanon's broader media environment. 'Lebanon remains a beacon of press freedom in the Levant,' he said, 'with seasoned professionals working across leading media institutions in the region and in Europe.' 'Tangible change' in new era The Lebanese media landscape has recently been under scrutiny following court summons issued to digital outlets Megaphone and Daraj, as well as the think tank Kulluna Irada. Leaders from the organizations appeared before the Beirut Palace of Justice on April 15 in connection with complaints filed by groups reportedly close to the banking sector. The complaints accuse them of 'harming the national economy,' 'undermining market confidence,' and 'destabilizing the financial system.' During his visit, Morcos also met with members of the Lebanese community at the Lebanese Consulate in Marseille, at the invitation of Consul General Sonia Abi Azar. The gathering included Monsignor Paul Karam, pastor of Notre-Dame du Liban Church; Archimandrite Elie Nammour, pastor of Saint-Nicolas Church; and Elissar Naddaf, the minister's adviser for Francophone affairs. Attendees expressed a 'sense of tangible change' under the new presidency and Cabinet, and voiced interest in forming an expatriate support committee for Lebanon, with a focus on Télé Liban. A follow-up meeting is expected soon, according to the NNA. Morcos emphasized that the government is 'making serious efforts to bring about change at various levels,' and underscored the importance of the Lebanese diaspora in helping to build a 'new Lebanon.'
National News
30-04-2025
- Politics
- National News
Morcos reaffirms commitment to press freedom at Marseille Forum
NNA - Minister of Information, Paul Morcos, reaffirmed Lebanon's unwavering commitment to press freedom, journalist protection, and media independence during the launch of the Mediterranean Forum for Journalism in Marseille on Monday evening. The event, attended by journalists from across the Mediterranean and Africa, honored Lebanese daily L'Orient-Le Jour, a recognition Morcos described as 'an international tribute to Lebanon's free press.' In his address, Morcos highlighted the ministry's key initiatives, including a draft media law that abolishes imprisonment for journalists and strengthens their legal protections. He also underscored efforts to counter disinformation through a new fact-checking platform and partnerships with universities and international organizations. The Minister emphasized that despite Lebanon's decline in global press freedom rankings amid recent conflict, the country remains a beacon of independent journalism in the region. Morcos concluded with a call for shared responsibility in defending press freedom and combating censorship, quoting Georges Clemenceau: 'Freedom of the press ceases to exist when it is not used.'
