As part of its efforts to push the debate on implementing the right to access information as a fundamental tool for transparency in public institutions and to establish an environment that enables quality journalism to perform its role of oversight and accountability in an effective and constructive manner, Maharat Foundation launched the report "Access to Information: New Forms of Challenges Facing Journalists". The report aims to build on Maharat's previous observations by moving from monitoring general challenges to documenting recurring patterns of obstacles faced by journalists in their efforts to access official data. The goal is to provide a deeper and more detailed picture of these obstacles, enabling a better understanding of their dynamics and impact on journalistic work.

These efforts are of vital importance in the current Lebanese context, where access to information has become crucial not only for monitoring the performance of the authorities, but also for countering misleading narratives that undermine trust in state institutions. Amid conflicting narratives and competing agendas, reliable journalism becomes a means of reframing the discourse of reform in a way that supports transparency and accountability and offers alternatives based on the right to access reliable information.

The report is based on a qualitative methodology that compiles testimonies and experiences from journalists with varying levels of experience: young journalists at the beginning of their careers, those with midcareer experience, and senior journalists. The report also includes findings from the daily work of Maharat-News team, led by Maharat Foundation, through the preparation of in-depth investigations, monitoring of challenges during the training, providing support and mentorship to journalists, in addition to its expertise in fact-checking.

Documenting these recurring challenges is not intended to repeat what has already been said, but rather to highlight patterns that continue to recur and emerge, and to identify gaps that hinder the effective implementation of the Right of Access to Information Law. Through this monitoring, Maharat seeks to push official bodies and stakeholders to work together constructively to implement this right, considering it a necessary gateway to protecting transparency, strengthening citizens' trust, and enabling the press to play its oversight role in serving the public interest.

Read the report:

Access to Information: New Forms of Challenges Facing Journalists