DW Akademie in Libya

Since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has faced political divisions and insecurity, complicating its transition to democracy. Armed groups have formed local power centers, influencing political developments. In 2024, Reporters Without Borders ranked Libya 143rd out of 180 countries in its World Press Freedom Index.

Libyan media are often aligned with various conflict parties which then compromise editorial independence. State broadcasters serve as propaganda tools, and private broadcasters, usually funded from abroad, have clear political agendas. Social media, including Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, are the primary information sources for the Libyan population and are heavily used by factions involved in the conflict. 

Our activities

DW Akademie has been active in Libya since 2011, promoting traditional and non- traditional media and journalists. The focus has been on providing training for journalists and fact-checkers, Media and Information literacy, and promoting access to independent information – especially for women and disadvantaged groups.

Download our latest evaluation report for Libya here.

Since 2021, the emphasis has shifted to combating digital disinformation and enhancing the media literacy of Libya's population. Given that disinformation and hate speech extend beyond national boarders, our activities have expanded to the MENA region, supporting over 3,000 journalists and media professionals in promoting peace through digital reporting. Ensuring the safety of journalists, with training in mental health and digital security, is integral to all initiatives.

Funding: European Union, German Federal Foreign Office (AA)

Program Director: Susanne Stephan-Pohlscheidt

Locations: Tunisia, Libya, Palestinian territories, Jordan, Lebanon, Algeria

Partners: Leaders International & Leaders Organisation, Elbiro Media Foundation

Focus: Access to information, peace through digital reporting, safety of journalists, combating digital disinformation, fact-based journalism, fact-checking, Media and Information Literacy