Multi-level dialogue in Lebanon

Supporting reforms, dealing with the past, and building a vision for the future

Protests against the trash crisis during the Arab uprising in Beirut, Lebanon in August 2015.

In Lebanon, we initiate dialogue formats and support local initiatives to address root causes of conflicts and to build a stable future for the country.

Lebanon is experiencing unprecedented and overlapping economic, political, financial, and humanitarian crises. To build a more stable future for the country, relationships need to be strengthened across religious and political affiliations at every level of society. To achieve this, it’s crucial to bring together diverse groups to tackle ongoing and deep-rooted issues within Lebanese society.

Together with our Lebanese partners, the Berghof Foundation implements a multi-level dialogue process alongside a funding programme for local initiatives. We organise events where people can share their experiences, consider new perspectives, and agree on shared interests and goals.

Through the different activities and formats, we encourage people to collaboratively and constructively approach opportunities, differences and challenges in pursuit of a paradigm shift that has a lasting impact on the stability of the country.

The project combines three tracks of intervention that include national and local level dialogue, and that involve groups from all walks of society: from academia, to women’s associations, businesses, youth groups, local authorities and municipal entities.

Track 1: Discussion on a future vision, common values and political and economic reforms
Together with our partners, we initiate a high-level dialogue process between experts and influential figures to discuss options for political and economic reforms and a vision for the future of the country.
Track 2: Cultural and dialogue activities to address past misconceptions and grievances
We engage local communities in initiatives that deal with past grievances, address prejudices and misunderstandings, and tackle ongoing barriers to stability.
Track 3: Support of local initiatives on service delivery, transparency and social cohesion
We fund a selection of participatory projects for social cohesion that foster dialogue, trust, transparency, and good governance in local communities.

We work across four national districts that have experienced significant local conflicts over the past few years: Tripoli (North), Zahle (Beqaa), Marjeyoun (South) and Aley/Shouf (Mount Lebanon).