Social and economic justice

Decades of political clientelism have infiltrated Lebanon’s welfare system, turning the social benefit into a political tool of control and manipulation.

The path to comprehensive political reform is hindered with numerous obstacles, but reform forces can unite in a gradual and targeted effort to dismantle clientelism through a combination of practical measures and gradual societal shifts leading to profound structural change. At the same time, the creation of new inclusive political structures that promotes the rights of the people with disability, gender equality, as well as the participation of women in decision-making processes.

Since the collapse of Lebanon’s post-civil war economic model in 2019, urgent reforms have remained stalled by persistent political deadlock.

By working with reform-oriented actors — including members of parliament, civil society organizations, interest groups, think tanks, and alternative medias, we aim to develop a comprehensive strategic framework for implementing a more equitable economic model. This framework can serve as a benchmark for evaluating political positions in future reform efforts. This also entails increasing public awareness and engagement in support of more just social and economic policies.

Trade unions have the potential to lead a cross-sectarian struggle for socioeconomic rights and become a driving force for change. Fearing the rise of class-based, multi-sectarian organizations that could challenge sectarian hegemony, the trade union movement was systematically dismantled and co-opted after the civil war.

Due to structural barriers to democratic reforms within many existing trade unions, FES has shifted its focus toward supporting emerging, independent unions and the creation of new labor collectives. This support includes raising public awareness, organizational development, political advocacy, and conducting trade unions capacity building workshops.

Also invest in strengthening unionization efforts in emerging sectors such as the gig economy, where precarious work and informal conditions prevail.

Minorities, including women, refugees, people with disabilities, and gender groups remain particularly affected by discriminatory labor laws and practices. They are underrepresented in unions, face wage disparities, and lack adequate access to parental leave and other essential protections. Advancing a just labor movement requires centering their struggles and dismantling these systemic inequalities.