As noted by Rita Chemaly, one of the writers participating in this supplement, Lebanon remains far behind in the international ranking when it comes to the political participation and candidacy of women: 113 in personal candidacies and 86 candidacies on lists in 2018 compared to 12 candidacies in 2009 and 44 in 2013 when the elections did not take place.
In this supplement, we discuss the importance of further increasing women’s participation in electoral and democratic processes, the influence of youth and first-time voters on peace-building and the important role of monitoring in elections. We also shed light on the obstacles encountered by disabled people during the elections.
You will find in this issue inspiring stories of change, perseverance and resilience. The same resilience that Lebanon showed the world by holding parliamentary elections in the midst of regional turmoil, and considerable economic, social and political challenges.
We hope that the newly elected parliament and the incoming government will make a reality the Lebanon all its citizens’ dream of: a country of peace, security, prosperity and a clean environment. The elections are widely considered as a chance to bring up change as there was never a more appropriate time to do so.