Public Discussions
FNF Lebanon Supports City Forum Discussions on Key Issues
From September to December 2024, FNF Lebanon collaborated with the City Forum to hold four vital discussions on Lebanon's pressing issues and its place in a rapidly changing region. These forums, featuring experts and open discussions, tackled topics ranging from defense strategies to global political impacts and social cohesion, providing a platform for thoughtful dialogue and actionable ideas.
September Forum: Lebanon’s Defense Strategies
The series began on August 29, 2024, at the Toufic Tabbarah Venue in Beirut. International relations expert Karim Bitar and retired General Khaled Hamadeh led an insightful conversation about Lebanon's defense strategies. The forum delved into how Lebanon can address its security challenges amidst regional instability, discussing both internal vulnerabilities and external threats.
The session covered key topics such as the balance between maintaining sovereignty and managing alliances, and how Lebanon can navigate regional tensions like the Syrian conflict and Israeli border disputes. The discussion encouraged participants to think about the country's defense policies and how they might be adapted to ensure both security and stability.
October Forum: Social Cohesion and Good Governance
On October 14, 2024, the focus shifted to social cohesion as a foundation for political reform and good governance. Hosted on Zoom, this forum featured Michel Helou, Secretary General of the National Bloc, and Dr. Lina Khatib, a fellow at Chatham House. They explored how unity among Lebanon’s diverse communities could pave the way for meaningful reforms.
The discussion highlighted the role of grassroots initiatives, civil society, and political will in addressing sectarian divides. Examples of successful community-based projects were shared, emphasizing that even during times of political and economic crises; social cohesion can be a powerful tool for change. The forum also addressed the impact of displacement and the importance of inclusivity in strengthening the social fabric.
November Forum: US Elections and Their Impact on Lebanon
As global politics continued to shape regional dynamics, the November 28, 2024, forum examined the implications of the US elections for Lebanon and the MENA region. Mohannad Hajj Ali, a researcher at the Carnegie Institute, provided an in-depth analysis of how shifts in US foreign policy could influence Lebanon.
Topics included the potential changes in US priorities regarding Lebanon, the broader Middle East, and the ongoing crises in Syria and Gaza. The forum explored whether US engagement could help resolve Lebanon’s economic and political crises or exacerbate existing challenges. This session offered participants a chance to consider Lebanon’s place on the global stage and the strategies it could adopt in response to international developments.
December Forum: Syria’s Future and Lebanon
The final forum of the year, held on December 19, 2024, addressed the fall of the Assad regime in Syria and its ramifications for Lebanon. Political analyst Hanna Saleh guided the discussion, touching on the challenges and opportunities such a shift might bring.
Key points included how the end of Assad’s rule could affect Lebanon’s political alliances, economic ties, and refugee crisis. The forum also looked at ways Lebanon could prepare for these changes while maintaining its sovereignty and stability. Participants discussed strategies to mitigate risks and leverage opportunities for rebuilding stronger, more resilient institutions.
A Space for Collaboration and Solutions
By supporting these forums, FNF Lebanon reaffirmed its commitment to fostering open dialogue on Lebanon’s most pressing issues. Each event created a space for experts and the public to share perspectives and generate ideas for tackling challenges. During a period of uncertainty, the City Forum became a platform for collaboration, offering hope for positive change in Lebanon and the region.