Search

Begin New Search Political Geography Lebanon

301. Playing the Long Game

Author:
Hardin Lang and Alia Awadallah
Publication Date:
08-2017
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Center for American Progress - CAP
Abstract:
During the last week of August 2017, the Lebanese government completed its largest counterterrorism operation in years, pushing Islamic State (IS) militants from the group’s stronghold along the Lebanese border with Syria. As many as 7,000 soldiers from the Lebanese army and special operations forces took part.1 The offensive underscored Lebanon’s contribution to the global counter-IS coalition and the key role that its military and security services have played in blocking the expansion of Sunni militant groups in the region. None of this would be possible without the long-term support of the United States, which has quietly bolstered Lebanon’s counterterrorism capabilities over the course of a decade. The cornerstone of the American effort has been a program to strengthen the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) that was launched after Syrian troops withdrew from Lebanon in 2005.2 In particular, Lebanon’s special operations community has made impressive strides in confronting the threat posed by Salafi-jihadi terror groups.
Topic:
Defense Policy, Terrorism, Military Strategy, Counter-terrorism, and War on Terror
Political Geography:
Middle East, Lebanon, North America, and United States of America

302. Islam in a Changing Middle East: New Analysis of Shia Politics

Author:
Marc Lynch, Ali Kadivar, Elvire Corboz, Farzan Sabet, Shirin Saeidi, Kevan Harris, Diana Zeidan, Toby Matthiesen, Laurence Louer, Marsin Alshamary, Hussein Abou Saleh, and Morten Valbjørn
Publication Date:
12-2017
Content Type:
Research Paper
Institution:
Project on Middle East Political Science (POMEPS)
Abstract:
POMEPS Studies 28: New Analysis of Shia Politics The study of Islamist movements has often implicitly meant the study of Sunni Islamist movements. An enormous amount of political science scholarship has dissected the ideology, organization, and political strategy of Sunni Islamist movements.However these academic communities that study Sunni Islamism often proceed without any interaction with the academic communities that study Iran or Shi’a politics in Arab countries. Studies of Iran and of Shi’a movements similarly often proceed in isolation from the literature on the Arab world or Sunni Islamist movements. This is unfortunate, because Sunni and Shi’a Islamist political dynamics engage many similar theoretical or intellectual issues and could offer each other critically important comparative perspective. Therefore, on October 13, 2017, POMEPS convened an interdisciplinary workshop of scholars of Shi’a politics to discuss these questions and to probe the similarities and differences between the two academic communities. We are delighted to publish this collection of essays resulting from that workshop. The essays range widely, both thematically and geographically, and together offer a deeply informed and often surprising portrait of political changes across very different contexts. They also reveal the profound methodological and intellectual divides between the academic communities studying Sunni and Shi’a Islamism. The essays in this collection range broadly over these issues and represent a starting point for the development of a research community. In the coming years, we hope to see much more attention paid to the comparative study of Sunni and Shia Islamism across diverse contexts. Bridging these linguistic, analytical, methodological and political divides would be an important step forward in the broader understanding of Islamist politics.
Topic:
Government, Islam, Politics, Religion, Sectarianism, Islamism, Revolution, Welfare, Sunni, Shia, Monarchy, and Alawites
Political Geography:
Iraq, Iran, Middle East, Lebanon, Syria, and Gulf Nations

303. Views of Non-Formal Education among Syrian Refugees in Lebanon

Publication Date:
09-2017
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Arab Barometer
Abstract:
The fourth wave of Arab Barometer surveys in Lebanon conducted interviews with 300 Syrian refugees living amongst the general population. Despite a relatively small number 1 of interviews, these data provide a meaningful look into what barriers this community faces and how much use they are able to make of non-formal education programs. Though refugees have similar reasons for attending informal education programs as do the Lebanese as a whole, the questions asked in the survey also show that Syrian refugees are more traditional in both their cultural and educational preferences. As a result, although 2 similar types of programs could be targeted to benefit both communities, it is important to tailor programs specifically to address the needs of the refugee population.
Topic:
Demographics, Education, Public Opinion, Higher Education, Academia, and Students
Political Geography:
Middle East, North Africa, Lebanon, and Syria

304. Refugees in Jordan and Lebanon: Life on the Margins

Publication Date:
08-2017
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Arab Barometer
Abstract:
The outbreak of civil war in Syria led to a mass exodus of refugees to neighboring countries and beyond. Many of these refugees fled to Jordan and Lebanon where they face a myriad of challenges, including of how to provide services for such a vast population increase. Overall, while Jordan has taken a number of steps to address some of the key challenges faced by refugees,1 Lebanon has taken fewer steps. Perhaps this is due to Lebanon’s unique history and fears that a large influx of refugees could change the country’s fragile sectarian balance and even lead to a renewed civil conflict.2 Against this background, the fourth wave of the Arab Barometer reveals that refugees in Jordan and Lebanon show different feelings about the degree to which they feel secure in their host country and how they the degree to which available services are meeting their needs. Overall, the findings reveal significant differences in the degree to which Syrian refugees feel safe and secure in the two countries. For example, while a majority of refugees in Jordan (59 percent) are not very worried or not worried at all about being harassed or threatened in street, only 25 percent of refugees in Lebanon say the same. This result shows similarities with citizens of their host countries: while 58 percent of Jordanians are not very worried or not worried at all, only three-in-ten (29 percent) of Lebanese have such concerns. However, Lebanese tend to see Syrian refugees as a greater challenge to their country than Jordanians: 44 percent of Lebanese as opposed to 35 percent of Jordanian cite Syrian refugees as one of the two most important challenges that their countries face today. Perceptions of Syrian refugees toward the quality of public services also diverge to a great extent. Although the vast majority in Jordan are satisfied or very satisfied with healthcare system (86 percent) and the education system (81 percent), only 53 percent of refugees in Lebanon say the same about the educational system, and just 28 percent in Lebanon are satisfied or very satisfied with healthcare system. Economic conditions are even more challenging for refugees in both countries. Most face with difficulties in meeting their household expenses. However, Syrian refugees in Jordan are more likely to show greater optimism toward economic conditions than those living in Lebanon. Notably, support for democracy remains strong among the refugee population in both countries, with 79 percent in Jordan and 85 percent in Lebanon agreeing or strongly agreeing democracy is better than other forms of government. At the same time, refugee communities in both countries define democracy based primarily on socioeconomic terms instead of political outcomes. Moreover, most believe that political reform should be instituted gradually instead of once (85 percent in Jordan and 80 percent in Lebanon).
Topic:
Civil War, Refugee Issues, Refugees, Refugee Crisis, Syrian War, and Proxy War
Political Geography:
Middle East, North Africa, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan

305. Views of Youth Non-Formal Education in Lebanon

Publication Date:
09-2017
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Arab Barometer
Abstract:
In general, Lebanese are pleased with the formal education system, especially in comparison to other government services. However, despite relative satisfaction with education in the country, many are nonetheless concerned about the ability to provide their children with a good education. If non-formal education programs are to help assuage these fears and meet the needs of Lebanese citizens, the Arab Barometer survey reveals it is important that they include an emphasis on critical thinking and analytical skills as a part of their basic curricula, as the public strongly desires programs that teach such skills as opposed to rote memorization. 1 In addition, to ensure participation across all demographics in these programs certain barriers need to be addressed. Considering that private institutions organize most of the current education programs that fall outside the formal curriculum, it is not surprising that cost is one of the biggest barriers ordinary Lebanese face in participating. Additionally, Lebanese cite access to transportation as a significant challenge, suggesting that increasing the number of such programs and their distribution across the country could substantially increase the rate of participation. Additionally, enrollment is likely to increase if youth non-formal education programs focus on developing skills for the labor market or helping students obtain a certificate or qualification, as these are the primary motivations Lebanese cite for attending such programs. Meanwhile, other interests related to self-growth, though still present, tend to be less pronounced.
Topic:
Demographics, Education, Public Opinion, Higher Education, Academia, and Students
Political Geography:
Middle East, North Africa, and Lebanon

306. Social Accountability in Lebanon: Promoting Dialogue in Humanitarian and Development WASH Programmes

Author:
Oxfam Publishing
Publication Date:
03-2017
Content Type:
Working Paper
Institution:
Oxfam Publishing
Abstract:
Oxfam’s work in Lebanon, both on humanitarian WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) and more long-term water development programmes, uses social accountability mechanisms to assess community needs, empower citizens and promote dialogue among affected stakeholders. This strategy has helped to unlock some tensions in an effort to provide basic rights and services to vulnerable people. However the situation in many settings remains fragile, and further efforts are needed to promote dialogue and to anchor consultation processes to the water sector dynamics in Lebanon.
Topic:
Infrastructure, Accountability, Humanitarian Crisis, and Empowerment
Political Geography:
Middle East and Lebanon

307. Making Aid To Jordan And Lebanon Work: Aid Effectiveness in Middle Income Countries Affected by Mass Displacement

Author:
Abi Khalil, Alexandra Saieh, and Daniel Gorevan
Publication Date:
04-2017
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Oxfam Publishing
Abstract:
Jordan and Lebanon collectively make up less than one percent of the world’s economy, but host around 20 percent of the world’s refugees. Donors have recognized the scale of the challenges that this presents and acknowledged that humanitarian assistance must be supplemented with multi-year development support. This briefing note presents a preview of key findings from Oxfam-commissioned research in Lebanon and Jordan and concludes that for assistance to succeed in its aim of helping both refugees and poor host communities there is a need for increased democratic ownership, transparency and accountability in donor and government aid policies.
Topic:
Humanitarian Aid, Finance, Refugee Crisis, Displacement, and Middle Class
Political Geography:
Middle East, Lebanon, and Jordan

308. ‘We’re Not There Yet…’ Voices of Refugees from Syria in Lebanon

Author:
Francesca El Asmar and Nour Shawaf
Publication Date:
05-2017
Content Type:
Research Paper
Institution:
Oxfam Publishing
Abstract:
As the Syrian crisis enters its sixth year, the world is witness to what has been characterized as the largest humanitarian emergency of our time. More than 11 million people have fled their homes, of whom around five million have sought refuge in neighbouring countries. Lebanon is hosting 1.5 million refugees from Syria, and 31,500 registered Palestinian refugees from Syria as of December 2016. This report presents the results of Oxfam’s research project which looked at the perceptions and expectations of refugees in Lebanon in relation to their future, their present situation and their past experiences. It aims to open up discussion on lasting solutions that will allow refugees to influence the decisions being made and to define concepts of safe and dignified living. The report argues that the perceptions, lived experiences and expectations of the refugees themselves should be the building blocks of their future, whereby freedom to make choices is a fundamental component of dignity.
Topic:
Migration, Refugee Crisis, Displacement, and Humanitarian Crisis
Political Geography:
Pakistan, Middle East, Lebanon, and Syria

309. Still Looking for Safety: Voices of Refugees from Syria on Solutions for the Present and Future

Author:
Amy Keith and Nour Shawaf
Publication Date:
06-2017
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Oxfam Publishing
Abstract:
Syrian refugees and Palestine refugees from Syria have fled their homes in search of safety. But Oxfam’s 2017 research revealed that most people interviewed do not consider that they have found complete safety and protection in Lebanon. Refugees’ views on what constitutes ‘safety’ are individual and subjective. This paper argues that the international community and host governments should not make decisions for refugees about what or where is ‘safe’, but instead should support refugees to find safety in the present, and determine their futures for themselves.
Topic:
Migration, Refugees, Displacement, and Humanitarian Crisis
Political Geography:
Middle East, Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria

310. Not Without Dignity: Views of Syrian Refugees in Lebanon on Displacement, Conditions of Return, and Coexistence

Author:
Rim El Gantri and Karim El Mufti
Publication Date:
06-2017
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
The International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ)
Abstract:
Armed conflict in Syria has displaced millions of people inside and outside of the country. When a political settlement to the conflict is eventually reached, the process of refugees returning to Syria and rebuilding their lives, relationships, and communities will be long and complex. However, discussions with displaced persons about return and coexistence can begin now, even in the face of ongoing violence and displacement. This research report is based on interviews with refugees living in Lebanon and representatives of local and international organizations in both Lebanon and Turkey working on issues related to Syrian displacement. The report provides an important window into the experiences of refugees in Lebanon as well as their concerns, expectations, and priorities regarding conditions of return and coexistence. The research findings highlight the harms experienced by Syrian refugees at both the individual and collective levels, including the loss of loved ones, houses, property, and businesses in Syria and difficult economic situations and discrimination in Lebanon. Displacement has had devastating impacts on families and led to broad social fragmentation, including sectarian and political divisions and rifts between those who left Syria and those who remained. The effects of conflict and displacement will be generational, as refugee children have been traumatized by their exposure to violence and largely deprived of education. The findings also capture common priorities among Syrian refugees in Lebanon for return. Most do want to return, not just to Syria but to the regions and communities where they previously lived. Common preconditions for return include safety and security; shelter, livelihoods, and the physical reconstruction of homes and infrastructure; compensation or restitution for the loss of property and housing; the provision of education for children and youth; psychosocial support; and family reunification. One positive development among refugees in Lebanon is that many youth engaged with local and international civil society organizations have acquired new skills and an openness to people with different religious and political beliefs that one day may contribute to rebuilding relationships in Syria. Views about the potential for coexistence and justice vary widely. Some refugees believe that Syrians will be ready to rebuild ties once the conflict ends, while others are less optimistic. Some believe that justice is necessary for return, while others think it unlikely to occur. The research makes it clear that the restoration of dignity will play an important role in establishing the necessary conditions for refugee return and coexistence. While return will ultimately depend on a political resolution to the Syrian conflict, several steps can be taken now that are likely to have implications for return and coexistence in the future.
Topic:
Refugees, Displacement, Criminal Justice, Syrian War, Truth and Reconciliation, and Youth Engagement
Political Geography:
Middle East, Lebanon, and Syria