Lebanon is part of the cradle of civilization, and a country with a long history as a convener of dialogue processes related to both internal and regional conflicts. Many of these undertakings, both on a political and community level, resulted in great successes.

Today, Lebanon stands at a cross-roads where there is both potential for a turn to an inclusive and all encompassing process of dialogue that could support building sustainable peace or a new escalation of violence. The use of war or violence as a means to settle conflicts has not and will not bring stability nor peace to the country.

Reflecting on its visit to Lebanon, the Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict (GPPAC) realizes how much the country has suffered from violence and war. In engagements with different local actors, GPPAC observed and recognized the need to expand dialogue that is sustainable and inclusive to all segments of society.

GPPAC furthermore believes that, although Lebanon is a prosperous country, several communities within its borders are in dire need of recognition of the tragic humanitarian situation they find themselves in. They also have the right to a significant increase in assistance in their development. The different communities need to be heard and be given a chance to voice their hopes to participate in building a peaceful Lebanon.

GPPAC also observed the enormously complex and fragile security situation that dominates the country which makes people live in a constant state of fear. This is caused by the possibility of renewed conflict and violence, something which is currently exemplified by the speculations regarding the outcome of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon.

All of these reflections brings GPPAC to call for;

  The recognition of justice as a very important element of sustainable peace, while considering the potential implications of the outcome of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon; and for all stakeholders in Lebanese society to communicate openly about the Tribunal but to refrain from violence in responding to its outcome,

  The acknowledgement of the human needs and rights of the Palestinian Refugees, as well as to give them a voice in deciding their own future, 

  The UNIFIL mission of peacekeeping needs to be continued, while hearing the concerns of local populations in the South regarding the mission and the UN in general.

To contribute to these developments, GPPAC hopes to support peace in Lebanon by;

1.      Assisting and supporting the strengthening of an internal dialogue process in Lebanon,  amongst others by sharing its knowledge and experience with dialogue processes in other areas of the world.

2.       Being a messenger to international actors that influence the security and stability of Lebanon to express the shared need for an inclusive dialogue process.