The Issue
In Lebanon, freedom of expression and media independence are under increasing pressure. Journalists, bloggers, and human rights defenders face growing threats such as harassment, arbitrary arrests, and restrictive defamation laws. A new media law under discussion could further limit free speech and punish those who speak out.
At the same time, the country’s digital transformation is moving forward without clear alignment to international human rights standards. Many citizens, policymakers, and media workers lack the skills or tools to navigate these changes safely and responsibly. The result is a digital environment where misinformation spreads easily, privacy is not always protected, and people are uncertain about their rights online.
The Project
DanChurchAid in Lebanon, together with the Union for Relief and Development Association and Digital Opportunity Trust, is working to make Lebanon’s digital space safer, more inclusive, and rights-based.
The project promotes digital transformation that respects human rights by analysing Lebanon’s digital policies, monitoring online threats, and advocating for reforms aligned with international standards. It builds the capacity of duty-bearers and citizens through training on digital literacy, misinformation, and responsible technology use.
The project also offers direct protection services to journalists and human rights defenders at risk, including legal aid, psychosocial support, and digital safety training. Through online platforms, workshops, and nationwide awareness campaigns, it empowers people to defend their rights and use digital spaces safely.
The Change
This project will help shape a digital future in Lebanon that protects freedom of expression and supports those who stand up for human rights. Duty-bearers will gain stronger knowledge of digital governance, allowing them to develop policies that safeguard online freedom. Citizens will become more aware of their digital rights and better equipped to detect and counter misinformation.
For journalists and human rights defenders, the project provides a lifeline – access to legal, psychosocial, and digital safety support that helps them continue their vital work without fear. Over time, these combined efforts will contribute to a more transparent, accountable, and resilient digital environment where rights are protected both online and offline.
The Results
In partnership with Union of Relief and Development Associations and Digital Opportunity Trust Lebanon, targeted legal, digital literacy, and psychosocial support trainings are being conducted to strengthen the capacity and knowledge of human rights defenders, journalists and duty bearers across Lebanon.
Through this project, 3 legal and 2 psychosocial support trainings have been completed so far, and over 10 one-on-one tailored psychosocial support sessions. Outreach efforts identified over 150 individuals awaiting upcoming training sessions. Additionally, a comprehensive research assessment of Lebanon’s digital transformation trajectory and its alignment with international human rights standards has been completed.
The Partners
Union for Relief and Development Association (URDA) is a national organisation dedicated to human development and protection across Lebanon, bringing strong local networks and humanitarian expertise.
Digital Opportunity Trust (DOT) Lebanon is a social enterprise that empowers youth and communities through digital education and innovation. DOT leads digital literacy, online safety, and learning platform development for this project.
About the Project
Full Title: EU Advancing Human Rights Through Digital Transformation in Lebanon
Timeline: February 2025 – January 2028
Partners: Union of Relief and Development Association (URDA), Digital Opportunity Trust (DOT)
Amount: 1,300,000 EUR
DCA Theme: Fight
Expected number of people reached: 800 + 250,000 advocacy
Donor: EU
