Enhancing Public Accountability and Trust in Lebanon

Lebanon's political system is characterized by sectarian divisions. Lebanon's May 2018 parliamentary elections were the first national elections in nine years, and the newly-elected representatives will be hard-pressed to move forward on the past government's promises of much needed reforms. Low voter turnout – 49.2 percent – during May 2018 elections suggests a lack of trust in political parties. Lebanon's civil society is among the most vibrant in the Middle East, with more civil society organizations (CSO) per capita than any other state in the region. Yet the efficacy of these organizations in influencing change is limited. Lebanon has a long tradition of social participation in policy making and delivery, but this has not resulted in greater efficiency, responsiveness, or accountability for the national or municipal governments. Processes at all levels are hindered by high levels of corruption and a lack of transparency. An active civil society is fundamental to democratic governance, allowing citizens to come together to hold leaders accountable and address challenges that governments cannot tackle alone.