Media Ownership Matters

Mass media influence the way facts are viewed and debated in the society. Independence and pluralism in media, public opinion and views – including criticism of people in power – are the safeguards of a healthy democracy. Monitoring and ensuring ownership pluralism is the first step toward independence and freedom of choice. 

How can people evaluate the reliability of information if they don't know who provides it? How can journalists work properly if they don't know who controls the company they work for? And how can media authorities address excessive media concentration if they don't know who is behind the media’s steering wheel? Ownership structure may also affect the way the media industry manages its resources. It shapes the economic strength and efficiency of the media sector, which is of particular interest to potential investors. 

By mapping out these questions, the Media Ownership Monitor found that in Lebanon, audience shares in each sector of print, radio, television, and online are concentrated among a handful of key political players and families, creating a highly polarized landscape. In general, transparency of media ownership structures and access to data are also limited, with no obligation for any owner to publicly display their political affiliation. 

Find out more about 'Who owns the media?' in our database. 

The information on this website is subject to regular review, based on information provided by the media outlets and companies as well as public records. In light of any relevant development in Lebanon, information displayed on the website is subject to change, accordingly.