Tag "Beirut"

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Middle East/North Africa Politics

Lebanon: State Paralysis is Fomenting Political Violence

Amidst persistent economic deterioration and governmental breakdown, Lebanon has increasingly seen a worrying trend towards civic unrest and political violence. As the breakdown sees no sign of abating, public dismay at the elite is leading to riots which are being brutally repressed by the Lebanese authorities. Concurrently, one can witness a rise in tensions both within and outwith the sects. Lebanon suffered fifteen long years of conflict, raising the question of whether the country will see a repeat of previous misery.

Middle East/North Africa Politics

On the brink of state failure: Lebanon’s continuing crisis

After a year of protests at corrupt sectarian rule and a stagnant economy, Lebanon has come full-circle in re-appointing Saad Hariri as Prime Minister. As a state, Lebanon faces multiple existential challenges which Hariri has a gargantuan task to surmount.

Middle East/North Africa Politics

Rebuilding the Port of Beirut: a competition for geopolitical influence

In the wake of the explosion that devastated the Lebanese capital on 4 August 2020, multiple countries made offers to participate in the reconstruction of the Port of Beirut alongside sending their condolences. Far from being disinterested acts of solidarity, these propositions constitute strategic moves in a geopolitical game for greater influence over the Eastern Mediterranean. France is likely to stand out from the rest of the competition due to its historical and cultural ties to Lebanon, its current involvement in pushing for reforms in the country and its geopolitical position.

Middle East/North Africa Politics

National cynicism and foreign outcry overshadow Lebanese elections

Having postponed elections twice, Lebanon now has a new parliament after nine years. The results of the elections raise questions about the internal and external issues that threaten Lebanon’s stability and prosperity.  

Middle East/North Africa Security

Three hard lessons for Syria from Lebanon’s civil war

While the prospect of all-out war in Lebanon is unlikely, the country’s own experience might draw some important lessons on how Syria’s conflict may eventually end. A day before the

Middle East/North Africa Technology and infrastructure

4 ways Uber impacts civil society in the Middle East

Uber is helping communities address key social challenges left void by sclerotic government institutions. Earlier this month, Uber announced plans to invest $250 million to expand its operations in the

Middle East/North Africa Natural resources and energy

Lebanon oil and gas offshore exploration mired in risk

Estimates show that Lebanon has significant offshore energy reserves, including more than 120 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. International firms have lined up to begin exploration into these energy fields,

Economics Middle East/North Africa

Syrian refugees pressure Lebanon’s fragile economy

Syrian refugees are spilling over into Lebanon, with over a million people having fled to the neighbouring country. A significant number anywhere, its impact is especially strong in tiny Lebanon, causing