Manifesto

In 2022, Change became a national movement that extended to all Lebanese territories, represented in the recent parliamentary elections by nearly 330,000 Lebanese who voted for Change. The Change movement includes parties, groups, activists and citizens from different religions, sects, regions, and social and intellectual groups in Lebanon and the diaspora. They agree on the need for a transformative change in the course of Lebanese politics at all levels. They share diverse ideas about what change is, its priorities, vision and ideas. They aspire to develop a common strategic vision for change towards a better Lebanon. Our electronic platform acts as a facilitator of change; we work to connect all poles of the the change community. This document should serve as a common ground for the components of the change movement. This Manifesto includes a brief history of Lebanon, an identification of current challenges and the People's Platform's vision for Change.

From Ancient Coexistence to Modern Challenges

Lebanon’s journey through history is a story of diversity and division, a land where multiple sects and ethnicities have coexisted and conflicted over centuries. Understanding this journey is essential for addressing the root causes of today’s challenges and forging a path toward a unified future.

The mountainous regions of what is now Lebanon provided a refuge for different religious and ethnic groups seeking to escape persecution. Under Ottoman domination (1516-1918), a complex relationship linked these communities, initially bound by mutual needs and environmental challenges, but later divided under the effect of demographic and economic transformations, partly driven by exterior political manipulations.

These divisions will lead to inter-religious conflicts accompanied by massacres. The Ottoman authorities put an end to these by setting up the basis of political sectarianism; the first time with the Caimacamat in 1842 then with the Mutassarrifat in 1861; if Mount Lebanon then enjoyed a broad administrative autonomy and a long period of peace, the system of government based on sectarian representation within the council of Mutassarrifat, associating political power with religious identity, sowed the seeds for future conflicts.

The pivotal transformation came with the creation of Greater Lebanon in 1920, placed under French mandate. Intended to serve as a refuge for Christians and to be economically viable, it included within its borders a significant Muslim population who refused to separate from Syria. The French mandate in power maintained the principle of political confessionalism and anchored sectarianism at the heart of Lebanese governance, paving the way for the recurring political and social conflicts that Lebanon faces today.

Despite Lebanon’s independence in 1943, the legacy of sectarian division remained a dominant force in its political landscape. The confessional system, while providing representation, also perpetuated a cycle of competition and mistrust among the sects. Each community, guarding its allotted power, often placed sectarian interests above national unity, leading to policies that exacerbated social divides and corruption. These underlying tensions, influenced and fueled by the regional context, ultimately led to a first civil war in 1958, then to the wars of 1975 to 1990. The Taif Agreement put an end to these wars and tried yet another attempt to reorganize the confessional system. Although the Taif Agreement turned a new page by aiming to foster a national identity and move beyond sectarian struggles, it fell short of addressing the root causes of the conflict. It left a significant portion of the Lebanese population feeling underrepresented and failed to implement measures for reconciliation and transitional justice, which were crucial for healing the nation’s deep wounds.

Lebanon’s historical journey, from the coexistence to the structured divisions of the Mutasarrifate, the Greater Lebanon of 1920, the National Pact of 1943, and beyond, reflects a pattern where external influences and internal fractures have undermined national cohesion. As we look forward towards a future of reform and renewal, it is imperative to draw lessons from this history. Our vision is to transcend these inherited divisions through a new social contract that emphasizes Lebanese identity over sectarian affiliation, fostering an inclusive governance model that aligns with the democratic aspirations and the diverse character of our people.

Diagnosing Lebanon’s Persistent Struggles

Lebanon today stands at a crossroads, plagued by a myriad of socio-political issues that stem from its complex history but are exacerbated by contemporary crises. The voices of our members, drawn from diverse backgrounds across the Lebanese spectrum, have illuminated the pressing issues that demand immediate attention and action.

1. Sectarianism: The Root of Division

Historical Entrenchment: Sectarianism, deeply rooted in Lebanon’s history and institutional framework, continues to hinder national unity. The political system, which allocates power based on religious affiliation, fuels division, fosters political patronage, and impedes the development of a merit-based public administration.

Current Impact: This division has manifested in political stalemates, corruption, and an inability to effectively address national crises, from economic downturns to public health challenges.

2. Economic Instability and Corruption

Economic Decline: Lebanon faces an unprecedented economic crisis, characterized by hyperinflation, a collapsing banking sector, and skyrocketing poverty and unemployment rates.

Corruption and Governance Failures: Corruption is rampant at all levels of government, eroding public trust and hampering effective governance. The lack of transparent and accountable institutions has severely limited Lebanon’s ability to implement economic reforms or manage public resources efficiently.

3. External Dependencies and Geopolitical Vulnerabilities

External Political Influences: Lebanon’s political landscape is heavily influenced by external powers, which have historically leveraged sectarian divisions for their strategic interests. This external dependency complicates national decision-making processes and undermines sovereignty.

Geopolitical Tensions: Situated in a volatile region, Lebanon is often caught in the crossfire of regional conflicts. This geopolitical vulnerability exacerbates internal divisions and limits Lebanon’s ability to pursue a neutral foreign policy.

4. Lack of a unified vision for the change community

All components of the change situation agree on the need for change, but they have not yet reached a common vision and approach to change. Although this is not a natural issue that needs time to crystallize for a number of reasons, it affects the citizenry in a negative way and gives the components of power an additional card with which to attack the change community. The main challenges that prevent the realization of a common vision:

- The cultural and religious diversity within the change movement.

- The magnitude of the issues in Lebanon, which poses different priorities for change according to their respective realities.

- The diversity of political orientations and economic solutions within the change community.

- the ruling powers who were able to mislead the Change movements in various regions by breaking in and implanting their own members in the groups.

5. Political clientelism

Clientelism is an old phenomenon but has reached such a wide proportion and influence in Lebanon that it has become a way of life in our society today. Lacking any logic, unlawful, conflicting with the public’s interest and uncontrollable, this tool is being used by the governing powers to further their influence in all aspects of citizen’s life; political, economical and personal areas are impossible to further today without having recourse to the “Leader” of the area. These leaders have strengthened their power over their populations, by using sectarian and geographical divisions, to such depth that they have now moved clientelism from the stage of possible means to an absolute monopoly.

Clientelism existed in Lebanon before the “Zaim”’ regime, and it still exists today in various countries of the world to varying degrees; however, the “Zaims”’ system turned clientelism into a monopolistic means that dominates all aspects of the country. An individual who belongs to a specific sect has become forced to pass through the leader of his sect in order to obtain any right or service provided by the state and can no longer bypass this leadership.

6. Degradation of public services and infrastructure

Healthcare and Education: The degradation of public services, including healthcare and education, has reached critical levels, depriving citizens of basic rights and opportunities.

Infrastructure Decay: Poor infrastructure, from unreliable electricity and water supplies to crumbling roads, further cripples economic growth and daily life.

7. Social Disparities and Injustice

Inequality and Exclusion: Social inequalities persist, with vast disparities in wealth, access to services, and employment opportunities across different regions and communities.

Human Rights Issues: Issues such as the suppression of media and free speech continue to challenge the fabric of Lebanese society.

Addressing these issues requires a multi-level approach that revisits and reforms the foundational structures of our governance, and also fosters a culture of accountability, transparency, and inclusiveness. Our platform seeks to catalyze this transformation, advocating for policies that cut across the traditional sectarian divides to promote a unified national identity and equitable development for all Lebanese.

Building a New Lebanon

As Lebanon confronts its deep-seated challenges, our platform envisions a transformative path forward—a reimagined governance model that dismantles the outdated structures of the past to pave the way for a just, inclusive, and prosperous future.

Rejecting Current Political Alignments

Independence from Sectarian Politics: We firmly reject the current political alignments that are mired in sectarian and ideological divides. Our movement advocates for a political culture that prioritizes national interests over sectarian loyalty, aiming to unite all Lebanese under a common banner of civic responsibility and national pride.

Establishing a New Social Contract

Constitutional Reforms for Equality: Central to our vision is the drafting of a new social contract that respects and protects the individuality and rights of all citizens, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds. This includes the abolition of sectarian provisions in the constitution, specifically Articles 59 and 22, which have entrenched sectarian divisions in politics and society.

Respecting Individual and Group Identities

Cultural and Individual Autonomy: as we dismantle the sectarian political system, we believe in safeguarding the cultural and individual identities of all Lebanese citizens. Our recommendation is to promote an environment where diverse cultural expressions are respected and where each and every citizen feels secure in their identity and is empowered to contribute to the nation’s progress.

Institutional Reforms for Effective Governance

Strengthening Institutions: We commit to rebuilding Lebanon’s institutions to be transparent, accountable, and efficient. This will involve significant investments in public services, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure, which are essential for the well-being of all citizens and crucial for economic recovery.

Vision of a Unified Lebanon

A Unified National Identity: Our ultimate goal is to foster a Lebanese identity that transcends all forms of communal division. We envision a Lebanon where citizenship and shared values form the basis of identity, away from sectarian labels.

Political Party and Electoral Reform

Dissolution and Reformation of Political Parties: To prevent sectarian and foreign influences from dictating the political landscape, we propose the abolishment of existing party licenses and introducing a new party law. This law will prohibit the formation of ideological and religious parties and bar foreign funding, ensuring that political groups align with common national values and serve the common good.

New Electoral Laws: A new electoral framework to promote fair representation and encourage participation from all sectors of society. This framework should focus on meritocracy and capability rather than sectarian affiliation, ensuring that the most qualified leaders are chosen to guide Lebanon into the future.

Defining our role in Lebanon's transformation

As a platform committed to facilitating political change in Lebanon, we define ourselves not as a political party, but as a catalyst to unite and organize the work of like-minded individuals and groups dedicated to creating a new and progressive Lebanon.

Who we are: Facilitators of Change

Facilitators and mediators: We see ourselves as facilitators, helping to bridge the gap between citizens and their political environment. Our role is to inform and educate Lebanese voters, providing them with clear and unbiased information about their electoral choices and the consequences of their votes.

Promoters of Informed Citizenship: Through comprehensive electoral education and the promotion of transparent electoral processes, we aim to raise the level of public dialog and participation political life in Lebanon. This includes educating citizens about their rights and responsibilities as well as ensuring that they are able to make informed decisions that reflect their best interests and those of the nation.

Operational Transparency and Accountability

Operating transparently: We pledge to operate with the highest levels of transparency and accountability, ensuring that all our activities and funding sources are open to public scrutiny. This commitment to transparency is essential to building trust with the communities we serve and is vital to the integrity of our platform.

Participation and collaboration: We seek to collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders, including local communities, non-governmental organizations, and other partners who share our vision for a better Lebanon. By interacting with diverse groups, we enrich our understanding and enhance our ability to address the complex challenges facing our country.

Taking the Pulse of the Nation

Understanding the public's perception of governance and social structures is vital to achieving meaningful changes. Our platform is committed to addressing the gap between citizens and the state, fostering an engaged and hopeful population.

Distrust of political institutions

Widespread skepticism: There is a general sense of distrust among the Lebanese people towards their political institutions. This skepticism stems from years of political instability, corruption, and ineffective governance that have left many citizens disillusioned with the possibility of positive change.

The impact of repeated failures: The repeated failure of political leaders to fulfill their promises and improve living conditions has significantly damaged public trust. This frustration is a major barrier to civic engagement and a challenge to motivate the public to reform.

Corruption

Endemic corruption: Corruption is seen as a widespread issue that permeates all levels of the state, further eroding trust and diminishing the credibility of public institutions. Perceiving corruption as an integral part of political life affects active participation and requires accountability.

Calls for transparency: There is a strong public demand for increased transparency and accountability. Citizens are becoming more vocal in their desire for clear and honest communication from their leaders and are looking for measures that can effectively fight corruption.

The role of media and information

Media influence: The media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception. However, concerns about biased reporting and misinformation remain common, with many citizens skeptical of the narratives presented in mainstream media channels.

Educational initiatives: Enhancing media literacy and providing public education on critical thinking and media analysis is essential to enable citizens to make informed decisions and question the veracity of the information they receive.

Hope for reform

Willingness to change: Despite the challenges, there is a palpable desire among the Lebanese people for major reforms. Many express hope for a future in which governance is fair, efficient, and respectful of all citizens.

Support for non-sectarian movements: Support is growing for movements that promise to transcend sectarian divisions and promote a national identity based on shared values and mutual respect.

Empowering the next generation

Recognizing the critical role of youth in shaping Lebanon's future, our platform is committed to actively engage and empower this vital group. Lebanese youth represent not only the majority of the population but also the most affected by current challenges and the most dynamic in the potential for change.

Challenges facing youth

Economic and employment obstacles: Young people in Lebanon face significant challenges, including high unemployment rates and limited economic opportunities. The lack of prospects leads to a brain drain, as many young, educated Lebanese seek opportunities abroad.

Political frustration: Many young people feel alienated from the current political system, which they see as outdated and unresponsive to their needs. This frustration often leads to apathy or skepticism towards all political action.

Platforms for youth participation

Inclusive policymaking: We call for the inclusion of youth voices at all levels of policymaking. By creating forums and councils that specifically represent youth interests, we can ensure that their perspectives are an integral part of governance and reform initiatives.

Mentorship and leadership programs: Developing mentorship programs that connect youth with experienced leaders in various fields can help transfer knowledge, enhance leadership skills, and prepare the next generation for civic and political roles.

Education and Capacity Building

Enhancing educational opportunities: Improving access to quality education is critical. Our platform supports reforms in the education system to include more holistic approaches that incorporate civic education, critical thinking, and practical skills relevant to the labor market.

Skills development: Initiatives to enhance skills, especially in technology and entrepreneurship that can equip young people with the tools to succeed in a rapidly changing global economy.

Encouraging political engagement

Lower the voting age: To promote early political engagement, we propose lowering the voting age to allow younger citizens to participate in elections. This encourages political engagement from an early age and helps young people feel more connected to their communities and the future of their country.

Digital engagement platforms: Using digital platforms to engage with young people where they are most active can bridge the gap between the older political system and the younger generation. These platforms can be spaces for dialogue, education and mobilization.

Supporting youth-led initiatives

Funding and resources: Providing financial support and resources to youth-led initiatives can enable young entrepreneurs and activists to implement projects that benefit their communities and the country as a whole.

Recognition and representation: Ensuring that young people are not only heard but also visibly represented in political and social campaigns reinforces the importance of their contributions and incentivizes greater participation.

Exploiting digital solutions for a modern Lebanon

In an era where technology shapes almost every aspect of life, Lebanon must embrace digital solutions to modernize its infrastructure, enhance government transparency, and empower its citizens. Our platform recognizes the transformative power of technology in governance and public engagement and is committed to integrating these tools to drive Lebanon's progress.

Government Transparency and Efficiency

E-government services: Implementing comprehensive e-government platforms can enhance government services, reduce bureaucracy and improve access to services. Services such as online access to official documents, digital tax filing, and e-voting can significantly improve efficiency and reduce opportunities for corruption.

Open data initiatives: Promoting open data policies will increase government transparency and boost trust. By making government data available and accessible, citizens can better understand and evaluate government actions and spending, leading to a more informed public dialog.

Civic Engagement and Digital Democracy

Social media for government interaction: Using social media platforms to facilitate direct interaction between government officials and citizens can enhance transparency and accountability. These platforms can be spaces to express opinions, provide meaningful feedback, and engage in community building.

Elections and ensuring the authenticity of official documents.

Blockchain for integrity: Exploring the use of blockchain technology in areas such as voting and public records can enhance security and integrity. This technology offers possibilities to prevent fraud in infrastructure development

Building digital infrastructure: Developing a robust digital infrastructure, including the provision of affordable broadband internet, is essential. This supports the deployment of digital services and ensures equitable access to these resources across the country.