In many ways, these elections reflected Lebanon’s deep attachment to democratic values and the ability of government institutions, the Ministry of Interior and Municipalities particularly, to organize the process. They also displayed the capacities of the Lebanese Army and Internal Security Forces in providing a safe environment during the voting.
Throughout the month of May, citizens practiced their right to have a say in who is going to run their municipalities for the upcoming six years. Heading to the polls, Lebanese nationals across the country were given the opportunity to hold their local representatives accountable and decide how their communities will develop for years to come.
There were many positive indicators regarding these elections, but I would like to highlight two in particular. First, the number of women elected to municipal councils, in comparison to the 2010 elections, increased by 15%. Despite the fact that this does not represent a significant increase in the total number of women in municipal councils, it is step in the right direction and indicates a shift in attitudes and behaviors. The second positive indicator is the increase in the number of youth who ran for elections. Their creativity and dynamism was welcoming and emphasized the strong will to engage in governance. It is the youth, after all, that will pave the way for a better future and add some vibrancy to the political decision-making process.
The newly elected leaders – like their predecessors – are confronted with the arduous challenge of not only governing the affairs of Lebanese residents, but also coping with the implications of hosting a large number of Syrian refugees within their communities. On top of its already existing local hardships, Lebanon has been exceedingly generous in providing for refugees. Municipalities, with extensive support from UNDP and other partners, have been able to accommodate and provide for displaced families, although the situation remains difficult.
I would like to conclude by discussing the new supplement at hand. The stories included in it shed light on how communities are facing different challenges. We at UNDP believe that such ventures encourage public discourse about civil issues and provide room for expression. Through such mediums, the increasing negative trends of prejudice and discrimination can be alleviated, both publicly and within the media.
We hope you enjoy reading it.