This working paper explores the relationship between Lebanon's independent media ecosystem and the European Endowment for Democracy (EED).

Focusing on Megaphone News as a case study, it examines whether the platform aligns with Julia Cagé's Non-Profit Media Organisation model, and gathers insights from seven Arab media practitioners on participative journalism.

Using thematic clusters, it critiques the EED's role and argues that European support is shaped by interests beyond democracy assistance.

Despite a collapsing economy and political instability, Lebanon's independent media have shown adaptability and community-driven resilience. Their innovations highlight the need to refine both theory and European policy to better support sustainable, independent journalism.