“MAHARAT Foundation” (Arabic for “Skills Foundation”) is a team of Lebanese journalists united by a common purpose, which is to achieve a freer journalism and to defend and promote free expression in order to build a much more democratic society. MAHARAT considers that enrooting the idea of peace can only be achieved through democracy – which was often violated in Lebanon during times of peace as well as during times of war.

Maharat is a specialized organization endeavouring to defend the freedom of opinion and expression. This is achieved by developing the media sector, advocating for legal reforms, building knowledge and awareness, disseminating information and building capacities of diverse social, media, culture and civic actors.

MAHARAT is part of the International Freedom of Expression exchange (IFEX), a global network of around 80 organizations worldwide.