Lebanon has navigated one of the most challenging periods in its recent history, facing deep-seated political, economic, and social issues that threatened its stability and future. Over the past two years, the KAS/CIH collaboration produced a series of papers and policy briefs that addressed these critical challenges. These documents provided a comprehensive analysis of Lebanon's systemic problems and proposed actionable solutions to guide the country toward a more stable and prosperous future. The topics explored included the necessity of political reforms, the restoration of state sovereignty, the imperative of good governance, and socioeconomic stability.
Among the various themes explored in these papers, the urgent need for political reform in Lebanon stands out. The documents examined the country's sectarian divisions, the fragility of its national identity, and the challenges of sovereignty, highlighting the consequences of a compromised political system. The KAS/CIH projects advocated for reforms that emphasized transparency, the rule of law, and the establishment of institutions capable of equitably serving all citizens. These reforms were seen as crucial for rebuilding a resilient state, particularly in the face of ongoing challenges to Lebanon’s sovereignty and national unity.
Additionally, the papers addressed Lebanon’s broader geopolitical context and foreign policy challenges. Topics such as Lebanon’s geopolitical transformation, the role it should play in the region, and the evolution and characteristics of nation-states were explored to provide guidance for Lebanon’s positioning on the global stage. The state of citizenship in Lebanon, with its possibilities and challenges, was also a key focus, highlighting the need for a cohesive national identity and inclusive governance.
Looking ahead, the upcoming policy briefs will continue the KAS/CIH collaboration's mission by exploring a diverse range of critical issues for Lebanon’s future. These briefs will cover essential topics such as state sovereignty, citizenship challenges, and the pursuit of good governance. Additionally, they will address the complex dynamics of Lebanon's political and social systems, including issues related to justice, diversity management, and local authority roles. The series will also consider the impact of the Syrian refugee crisis and propose strategies for sustainable solutions.
