7.4.2. Censorship
According to Freedom House, the media landscape in Lebanon was among the most diverse in the region, yet outlets were largely dependent on political, financial, or foreign sponsors, which fostered a certain level of self-censorship. Criticism of the President or security services was criminalised, and such provisions were used to harass or detain journalists, who were at times required to sign pledges restricting future expression.646 Self-censorship was also prevalent in online spaces, where users feared retaliation, such as defamation lawsuits.647
For further information on defamation lawsuits and the harassment of journalists, see section 7.4.1 Threats and harassment against journalists and media workers.