issue number 138 |January 2014 Lebanon’s Wildfires Kidnapping for Ransom the monthly interviews Khaled Ali Taleb
www.iimonthly.com • Published by Information International sal
Lebanon’s ailing health sector
Lebanon 5,000LL | Saudi Arabia 15SR | UAE 15DHR | Jordan 2JD| Syria 75SYP | Iraq 3,500IQD | Kuwait 1.5KD | Qatar 15QR | Bahrain 2BD | Oman 2OR | Yemen 15YRI | Egypt 10EP | Europe 5Euros January INDEX 2014
4 Lebanon’s ailing health sector
12 Medical Malpractice 14 Kidnapping for Ransom 17 lebanon’s Wildfires 18 lebanon’s Foreign Trade
21 lbp 9 Billion from the Ministry of Social Affairs to NGOs P: 17 P: 4 22 17 Years since the Establishment of Elissar
24 boutros Deeb 26 bundestag: German Parliament 27 colon Cancer Prevention and Detection: Dr. Hanna Saadah
28 Between the French Revolution of 1789 and the so-called Arab Revolutions, where is the missing link? (1/2): Said Chaaya
29 interview: Khaled Ali Taleb P: 43 head of the Fnaideq Municipality
30 offre Joie 43 this Month in History- Lebanon 32 popular culture First Extension of the 1972 Parliament 33 debunking myth#77: do Humans Use Only 46 this Month in History- Arab World 10% of Their Brains? Sudan
34 Must-read books: Commander of the 47 sexual Violence Scarring Syrian Faithful - John W. Kiser Women and Girls
35 Must-read children’s book: My Grandma 48 iraqi refugees Will Always Remember Me 49 real estate prices in Lebanon - 36 lebanon Families: Families denoting November 2013 Lebanese Towns (10) 50 Did you know that?: The Practice of 37 discover Lebanon: Yaroun Abortion Worldwide 38 Discover the world: The Republic of Cabo Verde 50 Rafic Hariri International Airport Traffic - October 2013 39 november 2013 Highlights 51 lebanon’s stats |editorial
The General’s Son He was not an activist for the Red Cross or the Red Crescent. Mattityahu Peled, known as Matti, was a Zionist General born in Haifa in 1923 to a father from Belarus and a staunch believer that Palestine was a land promised to him and to his people. For its sake, he engaged in atrocious fighting and by two Palestinians on killing with the Haganah. Yet, during a fascinating journey, September 4, 1997 was the the General went from a military hawk during the Haganah first spark that motivated madness and later during the systematic violence of the his quest to understand Israeli Army in 1956, 1967 and 1973 to a peace activist, the Palestinians. Instead of reconciled with himself and “the other”, and embracing a avenging the killing of his two-state solution, in a metamorphosis worthy of admiration. niece, the Israeli parachutist He studied the Arabic language, and became a professor in became an advocate of Arabic at the Tel Aviv University. His wife was also born to peace. After his emigration a Zionist family from Georgia and her father was among the to California, Miko signers of “Israel’s Declaration of Independence” and the described the anguish he suffered upon hearing that Abir, new state’s first ambassador to Norway. the 10-year old daughter of his Palestinian friend Bassam A’ramin, was shot dead by Israeli forces on January 16, In his new memoir, the General’s son, Miko, recounts 2007. “I was overwhelmed by emotion, I did not know the story of his family in war and peace and calls for a what to do or say. Once again, I found myself separated democratic one-state solution in Historic Palestine, a by oceans from people I love when I needed to be beside call, which he believes would have pleased his father had them,” he writes. he been alive. “I know my mother has said on several occasions that Zionism failed, and there is no reason why The General’s Son summed up the cause of Palestine with the we can’t all live as equals in one Democratic state.” This is utmost eloquence, urging people to rise above their doctrines, how the author concludes his book. nationalities and sects and to focus on their scale of values. Unsurprisingly, our media, both on-screen and in-print, The General’s Son is ought to prompt those runners does not shed light on those “enemy” members, nor does towards the civil war, from both March 8 and March 14 it extol the courageous transition they have made when Forces, to deal with all the questions hanging in the air. they dared to refute their own doctrines and tramp on their Could this be real? Axis leaders? What axes and what fanaticism. leaders? We recognize them from their names. From their criminal records and bank accounts. “Custodians of What price are they paying? What an unflagging conscience blood”? What custodians and what blood? We recognize they have! What a sublime spirit, that which carries you them from their escapades during the Civil War as petty from hatred to love! From war to peace and tolerance! informers for Yasser Arafat or the Syrian intelligence. What is the secret of the General’s son? However classic Presidents, premiers, deputies? We recognize them all with and dull the answer may seem, I dare say: “morality”. crystal clarity and they know that we do. Miko was predestined to go through this transformation. Go ahead and have a read through The General’s Son, then His fate was decided for he was born to and brought up ask yourselves “are the hostilities between you, March by a mother who used to tell him “I knew the Palestinian 8 and March 14 Forces, or those between Baal Mohsen families as a child growing up in Jerusalem. On Saturdays I and Bab Tebbaneh bigger that those that were between the would walk through the neighborhood and see the families Haganah and Abdul Qader El-Husseini*?” sitting on their balconies. There was usually a lemon tree in the front and a garden with fruit trees in the back.” Peled’s memoir tells us simply that “morals maketh man”. This is the gist of the matter in the whole world, and She refused to take another family’s home. “That I should particularly in Lebanon and the Arab world. Be a man of take the home of a family that may be living in a refugee sound morals or cease to be! camp? The home of another mother? Can you imagine how much they miss their home? And to see the Israelis driving away with the loot of beautiful rugs and furniture. I was ashamed for them; I don’t know how they could do it.”
Miko proceeds to recount that the agonizing experience of * A Palestinian Arab Nationalist and fighter who died in 1948 after leading losing his 12-year old niece, Smadar, in a bombing executed many battles against Zinonist forces. 4 | Leader
Lebanon’s ailing health sector
Government pays USD 1.2 billion, yet 51.7% of the Lebanese have no healthcare cover
In Lebanon, the disarray observed at the state level has transformed the health sector into a burden consuming a massive bulk of spending from both the government and the private sector, including entities and individuals, without fulfilling the expectations of the Lebanese, or delivering the services expected with the exorbitant amounts pumped into the sector. The reasons behind the blunders of the health system are diverse and inter- related. This article will try to determine the size of spending on health care, the problems plaguing the sector and the prospective solutions.
Spending of the Ministry of Public Health According to the public budget bill for the year LBP 500 million for Caritas 2012, the budget assigned to the Ministry of Public LBP 500 million for the Imam As-Sadr’s Health stood at LBP 554.48 billion (around USD 368 associations million), which accounts for a scanty 2.6% of the total LBP 900 million for the Lebanese Union for the public spending. The largest share of the Ministry’s Physically Handicapped budget is usually allocated for the hospitalization LBP 100 million for the Association of the Martyr of the uninsured Lebanese in private hospitals and LBP 300 million for the United Nations Population amounts to LBP 340 billion or approximately 61.3% Fund (UNFPA) of the total expenses. The provision of drugs ranks LBP 85 million for the National Eye Bank Center second on the Ministry’s agenda, with LBP 120 LBP 500 million for the National Organization for billion or 21% spent on medication. Together, the Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation above items make up 83% of the Ministry’s total LBP 700 million assigned for joint programs spending, equaling around LBP 460 billion. with the Directorate General of Technical and Vocational Education and the Lebanese University. In addition, the Lebanese, the uninsured particularly, LBP 160 million in support of the National can benefit from a number of contributions of which Nursing Development Program we mention: LBP 450 million for the Thalassemia Center LBP 13 billion allocated to public hospitals LBP 250 million for the Social Welfare Institutions/ LBP 10 billion allocated to joint programs with Dar al-Aytam al-Islamiya the UNICEF aimed at providing vaccines and LBP 135 million for the Social Movement Association medication LBP 220 million for the Mohammad Khaled LBP 4.349 billion for the Lebanese Red Cross Social Foundations LBP 4.875 billion for the Young Men’s Christian LBP 145 million for the Lebanese College for the Association to provide medication for chronic Handicapped- Beit Shabab diseases LBP 70 million for the Greek Orthodox Nursing LBP 200 million for the National AIDS Control Home Program LBP 55 million for Dar As-Sadaqa in Zahle
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LBP 145 million for the National Center for The beneficiaries of the Ministry’s donations are Development and Rehabilitation estimated at approximately 1.9 million Lebanese, LBP 70 million for the Saint George Medical which brings the share of each individual to no Center more than LBP 242,000 annually, a meager portion LBP 55 million for the Tal-Chiha Nursing Home compared to the high cost of hospitalization in LBP 200 million for the Childhood Protection and Lebanon. Care Association LBP 2.450 billion for vaccination programs National Social Security Fund LBP 2.750 billion for the primary healthcare The number of the Lebanese covered by the NSSF program (Dispensaries) amounts to 1,335,505 people distributed as follows: LBP 550 million for the Medical Awareness The insured: 593,508 members Program The beneficiaries or dependants: 728,944 members The optional subscribers: 12,756 members A portion of the Ministry’s expenditure goes to: Office supplies: LBP 110 million The medical services of the NSSF reached LBP 626.1 Administrative supplies: LBP 810 million billion in 2011 and were distributed as follows: Liquid fuels: LBP 200 million Services to the insured members: LBP 460.685 Laboratory supplies: LBP 250 million billion Pesticides: LBP 400 million Services to taxi drivers: LBP 75.438 billion Communication: LBP 500 million Services to specific segments: LBP 18.630 billion Electricity and water: LBP 475 million Services to optional subscribers: LBP 26.315 Office rent and maintenance: LBP 1.217 billion billion Advertising and publications: LBP 807 million Administrative expenses: LBP 45.03 billion Services and cleaning: LBP 250 million Salaries and wages: LBP 26.957 billion Military Healthcare Expenses of the inoperative central laboratory: The military health insurance covers members of the LBP 1.055 billion Lebanese armed forces, their dependants, which total Technical equipment: LBP 2.1 billion approximately 500,000 people, and the prisoners IT equipment: LBP 1.5 billion detained by the military forces. The healthcare costs of the above amount to LBP 379.625 billion annually and break down as illustrated in Table 1.
Distribution of health care spending by military apparatus (Amounts in billions of LBP) Table 1 Medications and Sickness and Health care in dispensaries Hospital care Total laboratory materials Maternity Care and medical centers Lebanese Army 46.9 25.8 130 2 204.7
Internal Security Forces 16.8 20 72.5 10 119.3
General Security 4 8.5 13.215 LBP 950 million 26.7
State Security 1.940 2.3 3.5 LBP 775 million 8.515
Customs 1.05 4 5.4 LBP 400 million 10.85
Detainees in military prisons 4.5 - 5.060 - 9.56
Source: 2012 draft budget law
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Ministry of Social Affairs An amount of LBP 193.7 billion is earmarked annually by State spending on health Table 1 the Ministry of Social Affairs to assist non-governmental Amounts # of organizations. The share of health care is estimated Provider of Healthcare at approximately LBP 65 billion, assigned mainly (LBP billion) beneficiaries to provide medication and to cover tests and check- Ministry of Public Health 554,48 1.9 million ups at the Ministry’s centers or at the centers of those organizations engaging in contracts with the Ministry. National Social Security Fund 626,1 1.33 million
The beneficiaries of this type of assistance are those Solidarity Funds 53,7 30,000 who lack health insurance and seek coverage at the expense of the Ministry of Social Affairs. The health State Employees Coop 175 400,000 and hospitalization costs borne by the Ministry are detailed as follows: Ministry of Social Affairs 65 - Joint social and healthcare projects with NGOs: LBP 9 billion Military Healthcare 379,6 500,000 Allocations to development services centers: LBP Total 1853,88 4.16 million 18 billion Contribution to Caritas Lebanon: LBP 400 million Source: 2012 draft budget law National Substance Abuse Prevention Program: LBP 100 million Problem and Solution While the Lebanese state spends approximately Solidarity Funds USD 1.2 billion annually on healthcare, 51% of the The 2012 draft budget law also allocated LBP 53.7 Lebanese people have only access to the coverage billion for the solidarity funds set up by the government of the ministries of public health and social affairs to assist in hospitalization and education. It is known with a negligible individual share not exceeding LBP that the members of these funds contribute to their 300,000. This requires a reconsideration of the entire expenses, noting that around 30,000 people benefit healthcare system by unifying medical offerings and from their contributions. These funds are: services, standardizing medical tariffs and limiting MPs Solidarity Fund: LBP 13 billion the coverage services within the jurisdiction of one Solidarity Fund for the Parliament Staff: LBP 1.6 health provider in order to reduce costs. If costs are to billion be kept at their present rates, full coverage for all the Solidarity Fund for the Lebanese University Lebanese, whether hospitalized or not, is the least to Teachers: LBP 23 billion be expected in return. Judges Solidarity Fund: LBP 10.5 billion Solidarity Fund for the Judges of Islamic Religious Courts: LBP 5 billion Solidarity Fund for Judicial Assistants: LBP 600 million State Employees Coop The State Employees Coop offers health and education coverage to both serving and retired public employees and teachers. The system of benefits covers around 400,000 people and the Coop’s spending on health alone amounts to LBP 175 billion. Conclusion The Lebanese state spends, along with the contributions of the private sector to the social security fund, an approximate LBP 1823 billion on healthcare and hospitalization as detailed in Table 2.
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Distribution of Funds to Private Hospitals in Contract with the Ministry of Public Health
According to the 2013 draft budget law, the Ministry of Public Health set the financial ceiling for the admissions it subsidizes to both private and public As-Sahel Hospital 4.000.000 hospitals at LBP 420 billion (USD 280 million) distributed as follows: Al-Zahraa Hospital 5.500.000
1- Private Hospitals Al-Burj 1.200.000 LBP: 225.7 billion (USD 150 million) Maarbes 450.000
Hospital Amounts in thousands of LBP Al-Hayat Hospital 2.400.000
Beirut Mohafza Great Prophet Hospital 6.000.000
Al-Makassed 4.703.500 Bhammen 3.200.000
Saint George Hospital 3.600.000 Mount Lebanon Hospital 3.000.000
American University of Beirut Medical Rehabilitation 125.400 Medical Center 4.400.000 Specialist Center Saint George Hospital, 450.000 Hotel Dieu de France 3.300.000 Hadath
Rizk Hospital 1.650.000 Al-Jabal Hospital 1.100.000
Haddad Hospital for the Rosary Total 32.725.400 (USD 21.7 million) Sisters 750.000
Geitawi Lebanese Hospital 3.400.000
Islamic Nursing Home 450.000 Matn
Nawfal Clinics 1.100.000 Beit Chabab 400.000
Najjar Hospital 300.000 Saint Joseph Hospital 2.500.000 Eye and Ear Hospital Clemenceau Medical Center 300.000 International 313.500
Beirut Eye Specialty Hospital 300000 Abou Jaoude 650.000
Total 24.252.500 (USD 16 million) Serhal 750.000
Al-Hayek 727.320
Hôpital Psychiatrique de la Hospital Amounts in thousands of LBP Croix 400.000
Mount Lebanon Mohafaza Haroun 1.600.000
Baabda Middle East Institute of 1.200.000 Health
Sacré Coeur 2.200.000 Libano-Canadien 1.128.600
Saint Charles Hospital 1.900.000 Bellevue Medical Center 1.650.000
Hôpital Sainte Thérèse 1.200.000 Al-Sharq 2.400.000
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Matn Jbeil
Al-Mashreq 1.460.000 Hopital Notre Dame Maritime 1.200.000 Centre Hospitalier Bhannes 800.000 Universitaire- Notre Dame de 5.500.000 Secours Sach Medical Sarl (Bitar) 300.000 Total/ Jbeil 6.700.000 (USD 4.5 million) Total 16.279.240 (USD 10.8 million) Total/ Mount Lebanon 75.462.040 (USD 50 million)
Chouf Hospital Amounts in thousands of LBP
Ain W Zain Hospital 7.770.000 North Mohafaza
Al-Othman (Mazboud) 727.320 Tripoli
Eqlim’s Medical Institute 1.000.000 Islamic Charitable Hospital 6.000.000
Baaqline Hospital 858.000 Mounla Hospital 3.000.000
Total 10.355.320 (USD 6.8 million) Nini Hospital sal 3.730.000
New Hospital Mazloum 1.700.000
Aley Chahine 550.000
Al-Iman 1.056.000 Al-Hanan 950.000
Al-Watani 957.000 As-Salam 1.300.000
Al-Irfan 1.050.000 Elissar 440.0000 Kamal Jumblat Hospital- Medical 2000 1.050.000 Dar el-Chifaa 1.500.000
Lebanese Ophthalmic 438.900 Hospital Tripoli 19.670.000 (USD 131 million) Bshamoun Specialty Hospital 500.000 5.051.900 Total (USD 3.3 million) Mennieh- Dennieh
El-Kheir 1.200.000
Kessrouan Mennieh Hospital 300.000 Hopital Monseigneur Cortbawi 300.000 Total 1.500.000 (USD 1 million)
Hopital Notre Dame du Liban 1.850.000
Hopital Saint George- 1.800.000 Ajaltoun
Saint Louis 400.000
Total 4.350.000 (USD 2.9 million)
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Akkar
Akkar Rahal 2.350.000 Al-Janoub Hospital (Shuayb) 1.800.000
Notre Dame de la Paix 1.241.000 Qassab 550.000
El-Youssef Hospital Center 4.200.000 Health Medical Center 1.653.000
Total 7.791.000 (USD 5.2 million) Total 18.321.780 (USD 12.1 million)
Koura Tyre
Al-Koura 1.550.000 Jabal Amel 5.000.000
Al-Haykaliyeh 4.000.000 Hopital Libano-Italien 2.850.000
Borgi 650.000 Alaeddine 2.500.000
Total 6.200.000 (USD 4.1 million) Al-Raii Medical Center 2.400.000
Hiram 900.000
Zgharta Kharroubi General Hospital 1.650.000
Saydet Zgharta 2.100.000 Total 15.300.000 (USD 10.7 million)
Centre Hospitalier du Nord 6.100.000
North Medical Treatment Nabatieh Center 630.000
Total 8.820.000 (USD 5.9 million) Ragheb Harb 2.000.000
Ghandour 1.000.000
Batroun Secours Populaire Libanais 1.400.000
Al-Batroun 2.328.000 Al-Hekmi 614.460 5.014.460 Total/ North Mohafaza 46.309.000 (USD 30.7 million) Total (USD 3.3 million)
Hospital Amounts in thousands of LBP Bint Jbeil
South Mohafaza Bint Jbeil Hospital 1.500.000
Saida Total/ south Mohafaza 40.136.240 (USD 26.6 million)
Labib Medical Center sal 4.764.380
Dalla’a General Hospital 1.050.000
Hammoud 8.504.400
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Hospital Amounts in thousands of LBP Hermel
Beqa’a Mohafaza Dar el-Tawlid Hospital 1.000.000
Rashaya Batoul 900.000
Bahmad 649.800 Ibn Sina 1.200.000
3.100.000 Total (USD 2.06 million) Zahle
Tal Chiha 3.000.000 Chtoura
Khoury General Hospital 3.325.000 Taanayel General Hospital 110.000 El-Beqa’a 2.500.000 Total/ Beqa’a Mohafaza 39.524.800 (USD 26.2) Libano-Francais 2.900.000 Source: Decree no. 10033 dated 6-3-2013 Riyaq 4.600.000
Riyaq 300.000 2-Public Hospitals LBP 94 billion Chtoura 2.750.000
Total 19.375.000 (USD 12.9 million) Hospital Amounts in thousands of LBP
Beirut Mohafaza
Western Beqa’a Rafic Hariri University Hospital 26.000.000
Dr. Hamed Farhat Hospital 1.600.000 Karantina 1.300.000
Doctors Hospital- Manara 500.000 Total 27.300.000 (USD 18.2 million)
Sohmor 600.000
Total 2.700.000 (USD 1.8 million) Hospital Amounts in thousands of LBP
Mount Lebanon Mohafaza
Baalbeck Baabda University Hospital 2.640.000
Dar el-Hikmah 3.700.000 Dahr el-Bashek Governmental Hospital 4.750.000
Al-Mortada 2.000.000 Dahr el-Bashek (Detox) 700.000
Rayan 1.740.000 El-Chahhar el-Gharbi 1.600.000
Tatari 700.000 Sibline 2.700.000 Dar Al-amal University Hospital 5.000.000 Al-Bwar 2.000.000
Universal Hospital 450.000 Total 14.390.000 (USD 9.5 million)
Total 13.590.000 (USD 9 million)
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Hospital Amounts in thousands of LBP Hospital Amounts in thousands of LBP
North Mohafaza Beqa’a Mohafaza
Orange-Naso 1.000.000 Elias Hrawi’s Governmental Hospital 3.000.000
Tripoli’s Governmental 4.400.000 Baalbeck’s Governmental Hospital Hospital 3.750.000
Tannourin’s Governmental 3.300.000 Hermel’s Governmental Hospital Hospital 2.200.000
Sir el-Dennieh’s Governmental 3.300.000 Rashya el-Wadi’s Hospital Governmental Hospital 1.100.000 Ehden’s Governmental Hospital 275.000 Total 10.050.000 (USD 6.7 million) Dr. Abdullah Rasi Source: Decree no. 10033 dated 6-3-2013 Governmental Hospital 3.300.000 Bsharris Governmental Hospital 800.000 3- Chronic illness medical centers and institutes: Total 16.375.000 (USD 10.9 million) LBP 14.559 billion 4- Centers for irreversible paralysis and disabilities: LBP 728.4 million 5- Centers for cerebral palsy and chest diseases: Hospital Amounts in thousands of LBP LBP 1.294 billion South Mohafaza 6- Centers for reversible paralysis and disabilities: LBP 4.490 billion Saida’s Governmental Hospital 4.300.000 7- Coma treatment centers: LBP 2.8 billion 8- Mental disorders’ centers: LBP 12.655 billion Jezzine’s Governmental Hospital 600.000 9- Hearing and speech centers: LBP 680 million Nabatieh’s Governmental 10- Prostheses centers: LBP 805 million Hospital 6.000.000 11- Centers providing hearing devices and aids: LBP 205 million Nabatieh (Pet Scan) 2.500.000
Nabatieh 2.000.000 The total funds distributed to the above centers (from 3 to 11) amount to LBP 38.2 billion Mays al-Jabal’s Governmental Hospital 2.200.000 Marjeyoun’s Governmental Hospital 2.800.000 Hasbaya’s Governmental Hospital 1.700.000 Bint Jbeil’s Governmental Hospital 1.650.000 Tebnine Governmental Hospital 2.300.000
Total 26.050.000 (USD 17.3 million)
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Medical Malpractice Existing yet Hard to Prove
Every now and then, stories of appalling deaths from medical errors circulate among the Lebanese, bringing to the attention of the media the rampant malpractice in hospitals. Some of the patients admitted for routine check-ups or regular operations can end up dying or permanently disabled resulting from negligent acts committed by the practitioner or the medical provider. Expectedly, hospital administrations deny all the allegations brought against them, stressing the adequacy of their medical procedures and the qualifications of their physicians and blaming the incident on the severity of the case or on postoperative complications.
Medical Malpractice and the Law even the best medical performance can sometimes The responsibility they have toward the sanctity of fail to generate the desired outcome in the recipient, human life puts medical practitioners under more due to a multitude of reasons. Hence, the physician is scrutiny than any other professionals. A physician only to be blamed and held accountable when he has is someone who, in the eyes of his patients and the clearly committed an error or neglected the standards institution he works for, possesses the competence of practice. and expertise to heal the sick. Unfortunately, errors in the medical practice are often irrevocable and leave Subsequently, medical errors result from one of two the physicians with little, or any chance to undo the cases: medical damage inflicted on patients. Errors arising from the negligence of human duties. According to the Lebanese law, the professional Failure to respond the rescue call. The Code of malpractice is the “error committed by members of Medical Ethics No. 288 dated February 14, 1994 a profession during their practice and whereby they prescribes that the physician, however his specialty, breach the regular professional conduct or the duty of should be committed to provide assistance to any care expected of them as per the rules in force.” injured person or patient who happen to be at risk under his watch and to ensure that they receive the Article 122 of the Code of Obligations and Contracts appropriate medical aid, except in cases of force stipulates that, under the principle of general liability, majeure. any act that yields an illicit harm to the interest of Failure to obtain the approval of the patient. others should be compensated when committed by Disclosure of confidential medical information. a judicious and reasonable person. If the harm is Decision to use euthanasia on a patient. caused by a non-judicious person, and if the affected Decision to perform in-vitro fertilization. party fails to obtain compensation from the caretakers Failure to inform the patient about his health of that person, the judge can order the offender to condition so the patient can balance between the pay a fair compensation to the affected party after prospective risks and benefits as per the Code of considering the conditions of both parties. Patient Rights and Informed Consent No. 574, dated February 11, 2004. The physicians must advocate the best treatment, which means dedicating the utmost care that falls Errors arising from the negligence of technical in line with the proper standards of practice and duties. employing all the means available to the benefit of the Misdiagnosis patients. However, recovery is not always a function Wrong treatment choice of the care administered by the medical provider and Surgical errors can be affected by other elements. In other words, Patient safety guarantee
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Substantiation of Medical Malpractice Claims In most cases, plaintiffs fail to prove the occurrence Medical negligence kills Rita Jebrael, who was of a malpractice act, as it is difficult to provide the seven months pregnant, and her unborn baby. The evidence-based facts necessary for the judge to obstetrician was released on bail amounting to draw inferences, form opinions and deliver a ruling LBP 50 million (May 2012). accordingly. Unfortunately, the patient is usually the weakest link in the chain for in all likelihood he happens to be partly or completely unconscious when the error takes place, not to mention that he might be suffering from poor health conditions or coming from a modest socioeconomic background that doesn’t allow him to bear the cost of prosecuting the responsible physician or medical provider. Medical Errors There are probably tens, even hundreds, of cases where deaths and injuries have been sustained due to medical negligence but most of these are swept under the rug.
Former Head of the Lebanese Order of Physicians, Dr. Sharaf Abou Sharaf confirmed the existence of tragic medical errors committed by physicians or hospitals stressing that the Order of Physicians addresses this plight through its investigative committee which probes into the patient complaints and grievances it receives. He added that an average of 130 to 150 complaints is filed annually and that negligent physicians are responsible for 30% of the cases. Those are brought to accountability through a series of actions ranging from warnings to expulsions. Four physicians were dismissed from the Order a month ago on grounds of malpractice.
Below are samples of the medical malpractices cited in local newspapers: Hoda Hallaq, from An-Nabi town in Qada’a Al- Mennieh, died due to alleged medical errors in one of Tripoli’s hospitals where she was admitted to treat the bruises she sustained while doing household chores. (December 2009)
Palestinian Claudia Tahhan, from Ain el-Helwi Camp, died during a c-section performed in a hospital affiliated with the Palestinian Red Crescent. (September 2012)
Salam Houseeini who admitted herself to one of Tyre’s hospital to apply a cast to her fractured leg falls into a coma due to wrong anesthesia dosage. (October 2011)
issue 138 | January 2014 14| lAW Kidnapping for Ransom: 25 kidnapping operations and the kidnappers nestled in the Beqa’a Valley
The kidnapping of affluent individuals by armed gangs and the demand for ransom to release them is a common phenomenon in many countries around the world. More often than not, the security apparatuses stand helpless in the face of these offences, particularly when committed by professional criminals, and the payment of the ransom becomes inevitable in order to save the life of the hostage. Lebanon is no exception in this regard as kidnappings have occurred throughout its history, mainly during the Civil War when the security situation was volatile. This phenomenon declined drastically after the war, only to pick up pace anew in the past three years, targeting not only the rich, but also the middle class individuals from different regions and sectarian backgrounds. There are even talks about kidnap-for-ransom networks aimed at all sects, regions and parties, and using the Beqa’a area as their base. Unconfirmed rumors suggest that a number of security officials are colluding with the kidnappers, or at best, overlooking their violation of the country’s stability, for personal gain. In some instances, the families of the kidnappers are advised to negotiate with the kidnappers directly to have the ransom reduced and solve the matter with minimal losses, both human and financial.
Lebanon has witnessed 25 kidnapping operations from the beginning of 2011 until the end of November 2013, most of which occurred in 2013. In most cases, ransom negotiations have yielded in the reduction of the requested sum of money. Although the return of the kidnapped thanks to political interference and pressure, without paying any ransom, has been a very rare occurrence, it has nevertheless clearly indicated that the kidnappers are known and identified by their name and region. This raises questions why the security forces are reluctant or unable to take action and only arrest the executors while the real instigators and criminal masterminds remain on the run. In this entire kidnapping saga, not killing the kidnapped was perhaps the only “positive” element.
Major kidnapping-for-ransom operations Table 1 Name, sect and profession Kidnapping Date of Kidnapping area Alleged paid ransom Notes of the hostage date release
In front of his Wissam Al-Khatib: pharmacy in Karak Army Intelligence arrested the 29-9-2013 15-10-2013 USD 500,000 Sunni Pharmacist al-Maaallaqah, kidnappers later Beqa’a
Kidnappers Ali Ahmad Mansour: It is said that the kidnapping Ghazzi, Western demanded USD 16 Sunni Venezuela-based 18-9-2012 24-9-2012 gang is headed by Mashhour Beqa’a million but could only businessman Saleh obtain USD 600,000
Kidnappers The brother-in-law of the demanded USD janitor guarding the building Mona Kanj: Shia’a physician Near her house in 28-11-2012 30-11-2012 600,000 but could where Mona lives is said to Mechref, Chouf only obtain USD have been involved in the 200,000 kidnapping.
Near his Liban Lait Pressures exerted by Speaker Ahmad Zaidan: 7-12-2011 11-12-2011 factory in Housh No ransom was paid Nabih Berri yielded his release Sunni businessman Sneid, Beqa’a without paying any ransom.
In front of his Kidnappers released He allegedly escaped from Mohammad Bassel El-Mays: residence in the 22-9-2012 24-9-2012 him after realizing he the Ain Dara Grotto where he Sunni farmer Beqa’a town of was not wealthy was held. Makseh
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Major kidnapping-for-ransom operations Table 1 Name, sect and profession Kidnapping Date of Kidnapping area Alleged paid ransom Notes of the hostage date release
A Lebanese Army unit was Kidnappers Fouad Daoud: Greek Orthodox In Baalbeck on his able to set him free and arrest 13-9-2012 19-9-2012 demanded USD dealer in car parts way to buy a car one of the kidnappers named 250,000 Abbas Helou.
The Lebanese Army cracked down on the kidnappers in Youssef Bechara: Near his residence 17-9-2012 18-9-2012 USD 400,000 Chiyyah and was able to Maronite businessman in Bsalim, Matn return USD 380,000 of the ransom.
Kidnappers Amer Naim Abou Chahine: The Lebanese Army arrested demanded USD Druze employee at the water 27-3-2013 31-3-2013 Douris, Beqa’a a Jordanian man who had a 600,000 but did not filter plant, Eau Pure hand in the kidnapping. receive a penny
In front of his He was released in Choueifat Najib Youssef: residence in the and two of his kidnappers 5-2-2013 11-2-2013 USD 140,000 Shia’a businessman Abou el-Ousoud were arrested later in the town area of Tyre of Chabriha near Tyre.
Mohammad Nibal Awada: Ramlat Al-Bayda, 20-2-2013 24-2-2013 USD 132,000 - Shia’a 12-year-old BEirut
Kidnappers In front of the The Army Intelligence Ahmad Ali Sayyed Sakhr: demanded USD 17-5-2012 23-5-2012 Baaloul Mosque, arrested two suspects Sunni expatriate 100,000 but did not Western Beqa’a involved in the kidnapping. receive a penny
Kidnappers demanded USD 2 On a subsidiary Nazih Nassar: Greek Catholic million but were not road between owner of a carpentry factory 1-2-2013 27-2-2013 paid the ransom - Terboul and according to what the Ferzoul kidnapped confirmed after his release
In front of his The kidnapping was allegedly Fadi Metri: Greek Orthodox 1-2-2013 3-2-2013 residence in USD 75,000 rooted in financial disputes owner of a car parts shop Mansourieh with the kidnappers.
Kidnappers demanded a USD 4 Ibrahim Zein El-Atat: On the road to 22-6-2012 30-6-2012 million ransom and - Shia’a citizen Sawfar allegedly received a half of it
Kidnappers In front of his Bassam Taleeh Tarabay: demanded USD 4 8-9-2012 20-9-2012 residence in - Maronite businessman million but were only Batroun paid USD 50,000
Kidnappers He was released with no Houssam Chahadi Bsherrawi: 3-6-2012 4-6-2012 Ras Baalbeck demanded USD 2 disclosure of the sum paid in Maronite student million return.
Andre Elias Jerjes: The Lebanese Army played a 5-5-2012 11-5-2012 Meziara No ransom was paid Maronite citizen role in securing the release.
He was released thanks to the Mohammad Fayez Loulou: In front of his shop 24-5-2013 26-6-2013 No ransom was paid mediatory efforts of Speaker Sunni, shop owner in Saadnayel Nabih Berri
issue 138 | January 2014 16| lAW
Major kidnapping-for-ransom operations Table 1 Name, sect and profession Kidnapping Date of Kidnapping area Alleged paid ransom Notes of the kidnapped person date release
Khaled Adnan Ezzedine: Nabi Othman, 12-5-2012 14-5-2012 USD 400,000 Sunni gas station owner Beqa’a
Hatem Badr Ali: Sunni citizen 28-7-2012 30-7-2012 Douris, Beqa’a USD 50,000
Kidnappers Kersy Keshishian: Lebanese demanded a USD 1 14-9-2012 17-9-2012 Hamra citizen of Armenian origins million ransom. The sum was not paid.
George Wadih and Tony Wadih The kidnapping was allegedly Saadeh: Maronite citizens 13-9-2012 18-9-2012 Baalbeck No ransom was paid rooted in financial disputes with the kidnappers.
Kidnappers mugged, Fayez dib El-Osta: Sunni then released him employee at the Ghazaleh 6-9-2012 7-9-2012 Jdita after realizing he was Construction and Contracting not the owner of the Company company
Mourshed Said Kayed: 22-2-2012 27-2-2012 Douris USD 50,000 Sunni citizen
Ziad Khaled Abou Esber: 29-2-2012 4-3-2012 Baalbeck LBP 116 million Sunni citizen
Source: Archives of Lebanese newspapers
Punishment for Kidnapping in Lebanon The Lebanese Law defines the kidnapping act and indicates the punishment for this offence. Article 569: He who deprives another person of their personal freedom through kidnapping or any other means shall be sentenced to temporary hard labor. The offender shall serve a lifetime of hard labor in the following cases: If the period of deprivation of freedom exceeds one month. If physical or moral harm is inflicted on the victim. If the offence occurs while the victim is performing their work duties or due to work-related reasons. If the motives behind the crime are sectarian, factional or vindictive, aimed at avenging a previous offense committed by the victim’s sectarian community, political party or relatives. If the offender takes the victim as a hostage for the purpose of intimidating individuals, entities or the state, embezzling money or coercing others to comply with orders and take or abstain from a certain action. If the offense occurs during an attack on a public or private transportation vehicle (car, train, boat, aircraft) If the offence is committed by at least two armed people. According to Article 257, stricter punishment is enforced if the offense results in the death of a third person due to panic or any other incident-related reasons. Article 570: If the kidnapped person is released within a maximum of three days without being subjected to any other crime, be it a felony or a misdemeanor, the offender shall be sentenced to 1 to 6 years in prison.
The sentence is reduced to half if the hostage is released within 24 hours.
issue 138 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. Public Sector | 17 Lebanon’s Wildfires devour 25 Million M2 Annually
The annual decline in Lebanon’s green spaces is Green spaces consumed by fires in the past rooted in several causes: Table 1 Raging wildfires that reduce thousands of hectares few years Green spaces consumed by fires of forest to ashes. Year (million m2) Urban expansion marked by new roads, buildings, 2006 34 schools, hospitals, offices and commercial shops. Decline of agriculture due to high costs and 2007 31 seasonal stagnancy. 2008 27 Failure to benefit from water wealth in irrigation. 2009 20
2010 16 Status quo Lebanon stretches over 10,452 Km2, with the barrens, 2011 30 pastures and rivers covering 53% of its area, i.e. 2012 25 5,510 km2. Green spaces make up 34% or 3,538 km2 of Lebanon and are distributed between agricultural 2013 32 2 swathes (25% or 2,600 km ) and forestry (9% or 936 Total 215 km2). Roads and residential and urban areas cover 13% or 1,352 km2 of Lebanon. Source: Archives of Lebanese newspapers Green Lebanon is at risk of receding drastically in the Wildfires coming decades if no efforts are made to resolve the Every year, by the end of the summer season, huge hazards threatening its vegetation, particularly by the fires sweep over massive tracts of vegetation across wildfires. Lebanon, razing forests and pastures and crops to the ground. Given their modest resources and capabilities, firefighting units stand helpless before the blazing flames. The tragedy plays itself out repeatedly every year, without any solution in sight to address future fires. Even the fire-fighting helicopters bought in hope of extinguishing the fires have proved to be ineffective and below expectations. It is said that many of these forest-fires are man-made for construction or heating purposes.
Table 1 illustrates the green spaces consumed by fire and turned into ashes in the past few years. The flames spread over 183 million2 m , accounting for 1.75% of Lebanon’s area, and reforestation was not initiated except in very limited areas.
issue 138 | January 2014 18 | Public Sector Lebanon’s Foreign Trade in 2012 Exports at USD 44 Billion, Imports at USD 21.2 Billion and Trade Deficit at USD 16.8 Billion
The deficit in Lebanon’s trade balance keeps widening year after year with a steepergap between imports and exports. Against the backdrop of a declining agricultural and industrial local activity, Lebanon has become a consumer, not a productive market.
The goods and products imported into Lebanon stood in 2012 at USD 21.279 billion, while exports were as modest as USD 4.483 billion, i.e. a deficit of USD 16.797 billion. The discrepancy has been growing with years as illustrated in the following Table 1. Some attribute the rise in the size of imports by 31% compared to 2009, meaning an average of 10.3% per year, to the growing needs dictated by the presence of Syrian refugees, for the growth in imports was at lower rates before 2010, except in 2004 and 2008.
Exports’ growth rates stood at 189% as opposed to 197% for imports during the past ten years.
Imports, exports and trade deficit between 2003 and 2012 Table 1 Value of imports Growth rate of Value of exports Growth rate Deficit in trade Year Deficit (%) (USD billion) imports (%) (USD billion) of exports (%) balance
2003 7.168 - 1.524 - 5.644 370
2004 9.397 31 1.747 14.6 7.650 438
2005 9.340 0.6 1.880 7.6 7.460 397
2006 9.379 0.4 2.282 21.4 7.097 311
2007 11.815 26 2.815 23.3 9.000 320
2008 16.136 36.5 3.478 23.6 12.658 364
2009 16.241 0.6 3.484 0.1 12.757 366
2010 17.963 10.6 4.252 22 13.711 322
2011 20.158 12.2 4.265 0.3 15.893 373
2012 21.279 5.5 4.403 3.2 16.797 382
Source: General Directorate of Customs
Trade Partners The US ranks as Lebanon’s top trade partner with goods and products imported at around USD 2.3 billion. Italy and China rank second and third respectively. Around 74% of Lebanon’s imports come from the 20 countries listed in the table below:
issue 138 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. Public Sector | 19
20 largest sources of imported goods in 2012 Table 2 20 largest markets for exported goods in 2012 Table 3 Values of goods and products Values of goods and products Country imported by Lebanon Country exported by Lebanon (USD million) (USD million) US 2,375 UAE 352 Italy 1,830 Syria 294 China 1,773 Iraq 211 France 1,540 Turkey 157 Germany 1,202
Turkey 965 Jordan 142
Greece 891 Belgium 111
Egypt 840 Egypt 88
Britain 518 Qatar 85 Switzerland 508 Kuwait 68 Spain 426 USA 64 Russia 423 France 60 Saudi 423
Ukraine 423 Korea 57
UAE 416 Angola 55
Holland 406 Congo 45
India 348 Britain 44 Japan 363 Nigeria 43 Source: General Directorate of Customs Germany 34
South Africa is the top market for Lebanese products, Source: General Directorate of Customs followed by Switzerland. 82% of Lebanon’s exports are centered in 20 countries and the following Table 3 illustrates the top 20 foreign markets to which Between 2005 and 2010, Italy was Lebanon’s top Lebanese commodities were shipped in 2012. source of imports, but the US overshadowed it and ranked first starting 2006. Regarding exports, the KSA was the major destination for Lebanese commodities 20 largest markets for exported goods in 2012 Table 3 before 2002 until the UAE emerged and topped the Values of goods and products list in 2003. Table 4 illustrates the top three countries Country exported by Lebanon with whom Lebanon have traded goods by means of (USD million) importation or exportation between 2003 and 2012. South Africa 864
Switzerland 547
KSA 359
issue 138 | January 2014 20 | Public Sector
Lebanon’s top 3 trade partners (2003-2012) Table 4 State of trade balance in 2012 Table 5 Top 3 import Value of Year Top 3 export destinations Value of exports State of trade sources Country imports (USD million) (USD million) balance 2003 Italy UAE USA 1.990 65 -1.925 Italy Iraq 2004 France Switzerland Italy 1.868 36 -1.832 USA UAE China 1.624 43 -1.581 Italy Switzerland France 1.510 57 -1.453 2005 France Iraq China UAE Germany 1.140 45 -1.095 USA Switzerland Egypt 942 67 -875 2006 France Syria China KSA Turkey 840 276 -564
USA Switzerland Russia 514 13 -501 2007 Italy UAE China Syria Switzerland 994 514 -480
USA UAE Britain 521 61 -460 2008 China Switzerland Ukraine 385 1 -384 France Iraq USA Switzerland Japan 404 22 -382 2009 France UAE Brazil 304 2 -302 China Iraq USA Switzerland UAE 594 322 -272 2010 China UAE Kuwait 302 77 -225 Italy France Kingdom of Saudi 531 308 -223 USA South Africa Arabia 2011 China Switzerland Belgium 250 131 -119 Italy UAE Syria 310 215 -95 USA South Africa 2012 Italy Switzerland Iran 42 13 -29 China KSA Sudan 23 26 -3 Source: General Directorate of Customs South Africa 9 673 +664
Deficit, surplus, equilibrium Iraq 4 179 +193 The balance between Lebanon and its trade partners Angola 0 50 +50 differs depending on the country, recording surplus with a few countries and sharp deficit with the Qatar 33 80 +47 majority. The following table 5 illustrates the state of Lebanon’s trade balance with some of its trade Oman 12 13 +1 partners. Source: General Directorate of Customs
issue 138 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. Public Sector | 21 LBP 9 Billion from the Ministry of Social Affairs to NGOs Many of the Lebanese are under the misconception that the social, educational and medical services offered by NGOs- social and religious- are mostly financed through the aid and donations or through the personal funds of the founders. However, the truth is that the Lebanese government is responsible for financing a large bulk of the activities as part of its commitment to supporting and promoting social and religious NGOs- according to political and sectarian quotas. Funding NGOs Every year, the Lebanese Ministry of Social Affairs enters into contract with a number of social and religious NGOs in order to carry out joint projects in different towns and neighborhoods in Lebanon. The Ministry provides monetary resources while NGOs ensure the supply of headquarters, labor force, etc. The agreements are renewed automatically on a yearly basis without conducting any actual assessment of the projects in question. Consequently, the Audit Court reiterated the need to abide by the following conditions before renewing the contract, but to no avail: Contract renewal shall not be automatic but rather a function of an annual assessment Stern supervision shall be imposed on the distribution of the state’s contributions The joint projects shall undergo a feasibility assessment NGOs in contract with the Ministry of Social Affairs The Ministry of Social Affairs signs agreements with over 86 NGOs every year to ensure the execution of joint projects serving social, educational or health purposes. The amount of credits allocated to these projects is LBP 9 billion. Table 1 illustrates a sample of the NGOs in contract with the Ministry by sectarian and regional distribution.
Sample of the NGOs in contract with the Ministry of Social Affairs Table 1 State’s contribution Name Nature of Activity Location (LBP billion) Sectarian affiliation Maronite Diocese of Beirut Socio-medical center Ashrafieh 22 Maronite
Maronite Diocese of Beirut Socio-medical center Kfare’may 20 Maronite
Greek Catholic Diocese of Beirut Socio-medical centers Kfare’qab- Kfertay 53 Greek Catholic Greek Catholic Al-Zawraq Foundation Center for the handicapped Fanar 44 (founded in 1992) Youth Orthodox Movement Socio-medical center Tripoli 32 Orthodox
Higher Islamic Shia’a Council Socio-medical center Hermel 19 Shia’a
Higher Islamic Shia’a Council Socio-medical center Kayfoun 44 Shia’a
Jaafarite Ifta’a- Beer Hassan Socio-medical center Beer Hassan 21 Shia’a
Islamic Charity Foundation Socio-medical center Burj El-Barajneh 29 Shia’a (founded in 1963)
Druze Charity Foundation Socio-medical center Wata El-Msaytbeh 24 Druze
Social Solidarity Foundation Socio-medical center Mazra’a, chouf 39 Druze Association of the Educated Muslim Youths Social services’ center Aisha Bakkar, Beirut 42 Sunni Alumni Association of the National Studies and Documentation Institute of Administration and Beirut 8 Non-sectarian Development Center Source: Cabinet meeting minutes on September 19, 2012
issue 138 | January 2014 22 | Public Sector
17 Years since the Establishment of Elissar Incomplete mission and ongoing expenses
Owing to the absence of the state and the waves of emigration and displacement that swept over the country during the Lebanese Civil War, the Lebanese regions fell prey to chaotic and disorderly construction and to illegal occupation of state-owned property. The government accorded special care to solve the tremendous chaos marring the south- western suburbs of Beirut, due to the strategic location of this area in particular as one of the entrances to the city and for the airport being within its borders. Therefore, Elissar has emerged to serve this end. So what is this institution? What are its achievements to date? How large was the bulk of its expenses and when will its mission expire?
Establishment Southern border: Beirut International Airport, Preventing all construction ventures in the south-western Cocodi Roundabout. suburbs of Beirut by virtue of Decree No. 6864 dated June 10, 1995 constituted the first move undertaken by The total area that Elissar is responsible for is estimated the government. Decree No. 6913 followed on June 28, at 5.8 million m2, including the areas to be reclaimed to 1995 and stipulated the endorsement of the master plan the west of the Ouzaee Road. organizing and governing the use of property in the southern suburb of Beirut. Management A board of directors consisting of 11 members is tasked Elissar came to light by virtue of Decree No. 6918 of managing Elissar. The members are appointed by dated June 29, 1995 and Decree No. 9043 dated August a decree for a term lasting three years. The president 30, 1996. of the board serves as Director General of Elissar. Similar to the common norm in all the public bodies According to the Decree, Elissar is a public entity in and administrations, the appointments in Elissar charge of organizing the south-western suburbs of are determined on the basis of sectarian quotas; the Beirut. It enjoys moral personality and financial and president or Director General is Maronite while the administrative autonomy and falls under the posterior board includes 2 Shia’a members, 1 Maronite, 1 Druze, supervision of the Audit Court. Elissar is responsible 1 Sunni, 1 Greek Catholic and 1 Evangelical member. for organizing and arranging the south-western suburbs Not one decree has been issued since the inception of of Beirut in alignment with Decree No. 6913 and is Elissar to govern the institution and its personnel. subjected to the administrative authority of the Prime Minister. Expenses Since its establishment in 1995 until 2011, Elissar Scope of work has been given around LBP 184 billion through the Decree No. 10231 dated May 9, 1997 gave Elissar public budget allocations, the advance payments or the authority to act in the area falling within the following transfers from the budget reserves. Part of its budget borders: was devoted to cover administrative expenses while Northern border: the edges of administrative Beirut, other funds were destined to cover the evacuation Adnan Hakim Street, Suleiman Boustany Street and operations, which, for the most part, were subjected Jalloul Street (also known as the Monoprix zone) to political considerations, noting that some occupants Eastern border: Airport Boulevard have received substantial compensation that exceeded Western border: Mediterranean by far the ceiling set by the rules and regulations.
issue 138 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. Public Sector | 23
The following table illustrates these expenses:
No. and date of Decree Amount (LBP billion) Purpose
7259→ September 19, 1995 1 Covering various expenses
7877→ January 26, 1996 5 Covering various expenses
8007→ March 2, 1996 15 Covering various expenses
8888→ July 29, 1996 25 Paying evacuation expenses for occupants
9165→ September 17, 1996 37 Paying evacuation expenses for occupants
10167→ April 26, 1997 8 Fees for studies and charges of the appropriation committee 3.505 1956→December 23, 1999 (transferred from budget reserves) Covering various expenses 2.250 2930→ May 12, 2000 (transferred from budget reserves) Covering various expenses 364.7 million Paying expenses for the evacuation of estates in Ouzai and 3078→ May 26, 2000 (transferred from budget reserves) Cocodille 2 3498→ July 24, 2000 (transferred from budget reserves) Covering various expenses 794.7 million 4847→ February 8, 2001 (transferred from budget reserves) Covering miscellaneous and evacuation expenses Expenses for the evacuation of the region surrounding the 5982→ July 30, 2001 12.361 western runway of the airport 2001 public budget 28 Salaries and evacuation expenses
2002 public budget 21.75
2003 public budget 1
2004 public budget 300 million
2005 public budget 2.2
2006 public budget 2
2007 public budget 2.5
2008 public budget 2.5
2009 public budget 2.5
2010 public budget 3
2011 public budget 3
2012 public budget 3.3
Total 184.325 Source: Drfat budget laws
The main purpose behind Elissar was to organize the south-western suburbs of Beirut. However, the institution has proved incapable of putting this vision into action and its lifespan achievements were restricted to a number of evacuations that could have been processed by the Central Fund for the Displaced. Furthermore, there is a pressing need to reconsider all the plans that have been designed previously in light of the current developments. Elissar has spent around LBP 184 billion for projects that never materialized, and it continues spending today on paychecks and administrative costs with no positive results looming in horizon.
issue 138 | January 2014 24| PROMINENT FORGOTTEN FIGURES Boutros Deeb Achievements in legal, educational and diplomatic spheres
Boutros Deeb was a prominent Lebanese figure best known for his impact in legal and administrative spheres of Lebanon. From the Directorate General of the Presidency of the Republic, to the presidency of the Lebanese University to the world of diplomacy, his influence was felt on every post he assumed. On the 15th anniversary of his death, The Monthly sheds light on his biography and most notable achievements.
Birth and Education Boutros Youssef Daher Deeb was born on August 23, Early in life, he met General Fouad Chehab and soon 1922 in Brazil. His family, which originally came the ties were deepened between the two, resulting from the Ashkar family of Beit Shabab, had emigrated in the appointment of Deeb as Director General of to Brazil from the Syrian town of Lattakia in the early Information and Media, especially that, in addition to twentieth century. His mother, Mary, belonged to the being an educated man with a well-cultivated mind, Elias family, of which Nawfal and Younan Elias rose to he was one of the rare figures who could have the prominence. He studied in the Syrian city of Baniyas unanimous consent of all the sectarian groups. Deeb but soon moved to the French Secular Mission School worked on promoting and developing the public in Beirut and remained there until he finished high media sector, specifically the Radio Lebanon, which school. He received a first degree and then a doctorate was known for its openness. He remained in this post in law from the Université Saint Joseph. He moved to until 1965. France where he obtained another doctorate in history from the University of Lyon. Between 1965 and 1966, he served as Dean of the Faculty of Law at the Lebanese University, before Marriage moving into diplomacy and assuming the position as His wife, Layla Chaaraoui, was born in 1923 to a Lebanon’s Ambassador to UNESCO, which he held family from the Syrian Sanjak of Alexandretta. She until 1969. was the matrilineal cousin of President Suleiman Frangieh and his elder brother Hamid who tied the By the end of Charles Helou’s presidential term in the knot with his other female cousin, thus becoming late 1969, Deeb was appointed as Director General of Deeb’s brother-in- law. It is said that after illness the Presidency of the Republic. He maintained office befell Minister Hamid Frangieh in 1959, his wife throughout the term of the newly-elected President, proposed that the power in Zgharta should be handed Suleiman Frangieh and exercised major influence down to Deeb, a wish that went unfulfilled, for the during his presidency. norm dictated that the duty be passed to his brother, Suleiman. Rumor has it that Frangieh intended to keep In September 1975, soon after the eruption of the Deeb at the Directorate General of the Presidential Civil War, President Frangieh chose him to become Palace after his election in 1970 in a somewhat Lebanon’s Ambassador to the Vatican, confident that delayed response to all those who viewed Deeb as a his high cognitive and educational abilities would potential President of the Republic. affect the Vatican circles, which had been playing a Deeb and Layla had 4 children. major role in the Lebanese war.
Professional Life After two years in Vatican, he returned to head the Boutros Deeb began to teach even before he had presidency of the Lebanese University in June 1977 completed his higher education. He gave classes in during a very critical period in the country. He worked Baniyas and among his students was Abdul Halim toward introducing LU branches in all Mohafazas in Khaddam, the former Vice-President of Syria. After order to reduce the students’ exposure to perils during obtaining his PhD, he became a professor at the their movements across the country. Lebanese University, the USJ and the Institute of Eastern Arts. From the Lebanese University, he moved to France in 1980 where he embarked on a new diplomatic
issue 138 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. PROMINENT FORGOTTEN FIGURES |25 mission acting as Lebanon’s Ambassador. Because of administrator and a professor who maintained close his wide knowledge of the French culture and history relationships with his students. A researcher with and a very good command of the language, the choice unquenchable thirst for knowledge and a recognized fell upon him to also preside over the Council of Arab connoisseur of history, philosophy, law and political Ambassadors. By the end of 1982, Deeb resigned sciences. Not only was he a genuinely learned man, from his post hoping that the new President of the but also an always-up-to-date enthusiast. Republic, Amine Gemayel, would entrust him with a new diplomatic mission in another country or in That he was the first civilian to teach the history of the Lebanon. Disappointed to have been denied this church at the Theology School in Beirut is perhaps wish, he distanced himself from public posts and one of the most remarkable words of praise ever devoted his time to writing articles. He also published given to Deeb. He was also one of the few Christians The Zero Magazine. who gave sermons on the Holy month of Ramadan in a Muslim mosque. A consensual and reasonable In 1988, his name was on the table again as a consensual person of exceptionally wide knowledge and good candidate for presidency. However, there was a power judgment; that is Boutros Deeb.” vacuum until finally, and after destructive wars, it was bestowed on President Elias Hrawi. Stance on Islam Although an honorable and praise-worthy figure, Characteristics Deeb was not spared from criticism. Former Mufti Deeb was known for his poise, manners and high of Tripoli, Sheikh Taha Al-Sabonji accused him of moral standards. Below are a few quotes that attest to being an anti-Islamic Christian fanatic and bashed how this man was seen by people in his circles. him for distorting the image of Islam and the Quran in his book entitled Islamic Regulations which he had Ambassador Adel Ismail in 1999: “The life of integrated within the curriculum of the Faculty of Law Boutros in Paris was a hermit-like life. A life of an at the Saint Joseph University. The book sparked a intellectual who opted for the shadows rather than series of protests among Muslim students and pushed the public eye. He was the epitome of composure, the then Grand Mufti Sheikh Mohammad Alaya to courtesy and modesty. Throughout the 40 years I order the formation of a committee to examine and knew him, I never heard him raise his voice or offend revise its content. The committee summoned Deeb others. He was an exemplary man and friend. I can who claimed that his book was premised on ancient proudly say that the period he spent as permanent manuscripts written by Orientalists and that he was delegate to the UNESCO has by far left the most ready to correct the misinterpretations and apply the memorable impression on both Arab and foreign proposed amendments, which covered over half of the ambassadors. This is what gives him a unique humane book. Still, Sheikh Taha Al-Sabonji was convinced streak appreciated by everyone.” that Deeb was fully aware that his work was false and misrepresentational but nevertheless he had written it Samir Atallah in 2001: “President Suleiman was with the intent of insulting Islam, an allegation that showing clear favoritism toward Dr. Boutros Deeb remained unsubstantiated. The book was re-printed when he appointed him to the presidency of the and distributed to the students. Lebanese University, for he was wedded to his cousin. But Boutros was a distinguished academic and one Conversely, Dr. Hassan Al-Munla recounts that of Lebanon’s highest-ranking professors. He had an Boutros Deeb facilitated the establishment of a excellent track record of research and linguistic and Lebanese University branch in the north during intellectual achievements. French professors and his term as president of the university. During the deans alike would flock ahead of their students to meeting and following an agreement to have the listen to his lectures in the universities of Paris.” building rented, Deeb invited everyone to read Al- Fatiha as a blessing for the new branch. Ghassan Tueini during the “Tribute to Boutros Deeb” ceremony held by the Antelias Cultural Movement on Death March 11, 1999: “As if he was born to be a diplomat, Dr. Boutros Deeb died on January 26, 1999 in France in the most authentic sense of the word.” where he had lived since the end of his diplomatic work. In his retirement, he dedicated himself to Dr. George Tohmeh, Head of the National Council research and writing and was nominated to chair the for Scientific Research: “He was a first-class Institute of the Arab World in Paris but to no avail.
issue 138 | January 2014 26 | Electoral laws
Bundestag: German Parliament
Germany’s parliament is known under the name Bundestag. However, legislation is not restricted to this body alone but is also a function of the Bundesrat, which includes representatives of Germany’s 16 federal states and participates in enacting laws protective of the interests of those estates.
Voting Age Every German who has reached the age of 18 is # of seats in # of seats in entitled to practice voting rights. The total number of Party 2009 2013 voters in Germany is 61.8 million. Christian Democratic Union 239 311 Term of Office Christian Social Union The Bundestag is elected to office for 4 consecutive years. Free Democratic Party 93 -
Voting System Social Democratic Party of Germany 146 193 Members are elected to the Bundestag through general, immediate, free and secret elections. Every The Left 76 64 voter has two votes: The Greens 68 63
The first enables them to vote for a local candidate Total 622 631 from their electoral constituency. There are currently 299 constituencies.
The second enables them to vote for a party list Functions of the Bundestag at the level of federal states, which total 16. The The Bundestag has several responsibilities of which parties that receive less than 5% of the valid party we highlight the following: votes or fail to obtain 3 constituency seats are not eligible to any representation in Parliament. Electing the German Federal Chancellor or isolating him or her by a no-confidence vote. The total number of seats in not specified and varies depending on the voter turnout and the Deciding on the federal budget. electoral results. The current legislature elected in September 2013 consists of 631 lawmakers Forming the Federal Convention responsible for compared to 622 in the previous one. electing the Federal President.
Political Parties Electing half of the 16 members of the Federal Representation at the Bundestag occurs on a party Constitutional Court. The Bundesrat elects the basis. Usually, parties express their desire to form other half. Each member is elected for a 12-year alliances and coalitions before engaging in electoral non-renewable term. campaigns. The following table illustrates the results of the 2013 elections to the 18th German parliament Scrutinizing the government and its work. as compared to those of 2009. Angela Merkel’s Christian Democratic Party and its sister Christian Social Union grabbed the majority of seats in 2013.
issue 138 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. Health |27
Colon Cancer Prevention and Detection |Dr. Hanna Saadah|
Colon cancer accounts for 9% of all cancers, with about one million new cases diagnosed per year. Its incidence comes third after lung and breast cancer and it is the fourth most common cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Each year in the US some 150,000 new cases are diagnosed, of which about 50,000 are fatal. Survival depends on the stage of the cancer at diagnosis; if it is detected early, about 90% percent survive, and this figure drops to 10% when the cancer is detected late.
Colon cancer increases with age. It is less common before can lead to dehydration, low blood pressure, and collapse. age forty, but rises sharply after fifty, and is 50 times more All of these complications become more common and common between the ages of sixty-to-eighty than before more devastating in the elderly, which is why screening is forty. The lifetime risk of colon cancer in the US is about avoided in older age. 5%, making prevention an important strategy. There are several tests designed to detect hidden-stool- Colon polyps, which arise from colonic glands, account blood, and although the screening itself is not hazardous, for 95% of colon cancers. These polyps take five-to-ten the consequences of a positive test can be. For example, a years to become malignant, which allows plenty of time for 77 year-old subject was screened and found to have hidden detection and removal. Polyp-makers are at an increased blood in the stools. Based on that result, he underwent risk of colon cancer, even after the polyps have been colonoscopy, which lead to colonic perforation and death. removed and therefore, require more frequent monitoring. The source of the blood was determined to be internal Colitis also increases the risk of colon cancer by up to hemorrhoids, a benign condition. twenty times, and thus sufferers need to be frequently monitored regardless of their age. Family history of colon Balancing harms and benefits, the United States Preventive cancer is another indication to have more frequent check- Service Task Force has issued the following colon cancer ups because hereditary conditions are responsible for up to screening guidelines: 10% of all colon cancers. a) Screening for colon cancer should begin at age 50 with Reversible environmental and geographical factors play tests for hidden-stool-blood or some form of colonoscopy, an important role in promoting colon cancer. City dwelling, and should continue until age 75. eating diets high in fats and red meats, and consuming low b) Routine screening should be avoided in subjects fiber foods all increase the risk of colon cancer. Reduced between 76 and 85 years unless there is a good medical physical activity, increased weight, smoking, and heavy reason such as unexplained abdominal symptoms. drinking are other reversible factors that also increase colon cancer and therefore should be discouraged. c) Routine screening should not be done on subjects older than 85. Because colon cancer is a worldwide, common, and deadly disease, screening is recommended for prevention These recommendations exclude subjects who are being and for early detection. In two recent studies published followed for colon polyps. Depending on the type of on September 19, 2013 in the New England Journal of polyp, colonoscopy is usually repeated every three to five Medicine, researchers shared the following findings: years. a) Nishihara et. al followed 98,902 subjects ages 30 to 75 When the first colonoscopy is negative, a screening for 22 years. During that period, 2% or 1815 developed interval of ten years is recommended, but that interval colon cancer and 0.5% or 474 died from it. Among can be shorter if there is family history of colon cancer. patients who underwent screening colonoscopy, 40% or Screening for hidden-stool-blood should be done annually 726 cancers were prevented. until age 75, regardless of colonoscopy results. b) Shaukat et. al. studied 46,551 subjects between the ages Whether screening colonoscopy is superior to annual of 50 and 80 for thirty years. Tests that detect hidden- hidden-stool-blood tests will be determined by studies, stool-blood were done every one or two years for a total of which are currently in progress. Taking aspirin to prevent twelve years. At the end of thirty years, death from colon colon cancer has not been endorsed by prospective studies cancer was reduced by 32% and 437 lives were saved. and may be more harmful than helpful. To be worthy, a screening test must show more benefits than The benefits of screening outweigh the potential harms harms. The harms of colonoscopy include hemorrhage, for subjects 50 to 75 years old. However, the likelihood colon perforation, and aspiration secondary to heavy that detection and early intervention will yield a mortality sedation. The preparatory colon cleansing is harsh and benefit declines after age 75, rendering screening potentially more harmful than helpful. www.hannasaadah.com - www.information-international.com - [email protected] issue 138 | January 2014 28|eyeing horizons
|Said Chaaya| Between the French Revolution of 1789 and the so-called Researcher at the Paris- Arab Revolutions, where is the missing link? Movement, Sorbonne University revolt or revolution? (1/2) When a chaos affects many Arab countries, the historian asks the question of a possible comparison with other movements and revolutions that have marked history and might be able to shed some light on what is happening today. The chaos - “unorganized” we believe - is an almost natural effect after major upheavals that have just occurred, and the historian, given past experience, should strive to discern the necessary conditions as well as the possible ways for a return to calm and peace. He is then entitled to suggest the paradigm of the French Revolution, by asking whether, with its consequences and solutions that have been proposed, it remains a relevant model.
Throughout the 19th century, the French Revolution that we can achieve regime change without wars or was for the majority of philosophers and politicians, conflicts, or is it only at this price that we are able to the epitome of the release of any and all yoke achieve a reliable and sustainable governance ? symbols of alienation and slavery around the world, particularly in Europe and also in the Arab countries Should we not learn from this flagship revolution in the under the Ottoman Empire. This pioneering movement history of mankind, that to achieve social peace, years, originally wanted to promote a change in political or rather decades were required to arrive at a simple, institutions and thereby the whole society. It turned yet logical statement which is often ignored or left to quickly against all forms of the autocratic monarchy oblivion ? A finding that is a consistent expectation of reigning in the name of the divine law. It rose against the people, which is the desire to live together in peace despotism, religious obscurantism and injustice. Who by betting on peace alone to guarantee citizens their would have thought at that time, in the 18th century, rights and freedoms. In other words, the primacy or that one day things would change forever? Who would primary objective of the peace is not an option but an have imagined that the will of the poor peasants, « the essential choice, a fundamental one. mob « the « sans-culottes « would draw the new face of France for centuries to come? This statement, simple as it may seem, is actually much more difficult to apply to daily life in the Arab Ask the question differently: Who would have thought countries. In short, the idea of eliminating the other that until now, in the early 21st century, the Place de la suggests that the other is being viewed as the enemy. Concorde and Place de la Bastille remain Meccas of And the idea of the annihilation of the difference is an the respective right and left ? Two symbolic places of integral part of every revolution and every movement change, but also two key landmarks in the history of involving structural change in society. But it should be the French Revolution. The former, where King Louis a step, not an aim, otherwise no peace is possible. XVI was beheaded, remains nostalgic for some people while the latter is still resounding with victory songs of The example of the French Revolution has not the people of Paris united against the fortress - prison only been tried and tested but has also become the of the Bastille , the feared and hated symbol of royal workhorse of many Arab intellectuals and thinkers power. But how could this be possible ? in the 19th century to introduce into the Arab lands of the Ottoman Empire, values of Liberty, Equality A lot of blood was shed and the destruction and and Fraternity. Values that appear to the present day devastation remained visible as engraved in stone as as mountains that need and remain to be conquered. in the consciousness of men. This period of turmoil, Values that seem to be unknown, or at least ignored was a source of sadness for some and a risk to the in the political terminology used in the Arab countries recovery for others. The French Revolution, as with raging with social unrest and revolts. What we hear any other revolution, was soon followed by a counter today are words without specific content or verification. -revolution. After the Terror came Napoleon. Decades Empty words, when today’s men and women need full would be required to build again a republican pact. words in order to experience a reality to which they aspire. But this revolution has been changing the face of France and Europe with it. Is it right to think, however,
issue 138 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. Interview |29
The Monthly Interviews Khaled Ali Taleb Head of the Fnaideq Municipality
Fnaideq: numerous demands, modest means and The collection of municipal fees is not profitable and a debt of LBP 2.1 billion shows no signs of recovery in these difficult times for residents and shop-owners. Our share of the Fnaideq is one of the most remote towns of Akkar, Independent Municipal Fund does not exceed LBP north Lebanon. The town suffers from several 1 billion annually, which is highly inadequate for the social and economic predicaments rooted in its town’s needs and demands. overpopulation on one hand and its scarce resources on the other. The Monthly met the head of the Fnaideq What are the milestones achieved so far? municipality for more insights into the state of the The municipality has strived to alleviate the strain town’s affairs. suffered by the residents at many levels and within its modest capacities. We supported the education sector by purchasing two school buses to transport When was the Fnaideq municipality established? students to and from the Fnaideq Official School. The Fnaideq municipality dates back to the 1960s. It is Another bus was provided for the students of the an old municipality consisting currently of 18 members. Lebanese University in Tripoli. We also undertook the restoration of the town’s public dispensary and bought When were you elected to preside over the a new ambulance equipped with CPR devices and a municipal council? defibrillator. We attended to the maintenance of local I’ve been involved in public affairs for a long time. I roads and introduced retaining walls to the roads at served as a Mukhtar for the town of Akkar in Fnaideq the risk of collapse. Snow ploughs were also put on for 12 consecutive years, from 1998 until 2010 when the roads in winter to keep all streets, sidewalks and I ran for a seat in the municipal council. I was to head laneways open. the council over the second half of its term, starting in May 2013. However, the current challenges we face The UNICEF has also carried out a number of in addressing the growing demands of the town and its development projects in Fnaideq including the residents amid a scarcity, sometimes even an absence of restoration of the Fnaideq Official School by resources make one reluctant to repeat the experience constructing two playgrounds- one for summer of running for municipal office in the future. and one for winter- and increasing the number of classrooms and providing a generator and diesel- What are the major problems you encounter as a powered heaters. Winter boots were also distributed local authority? to all students. Overpopulation is a serious issue for our town. There are approximately 4000 residential units in The municipality has also joined with several NGOs Fnaideq housing approximately 30,000 people, the to carry out environmental activities such as collection majority of whom lacks employment opportunities. of garbage and distributing trash bins in the town’s There are an estimated 3500 Syrian refugees and neighborhoods. their arrival has only aggravated the situation and added insult to the injury. Against the backdrop of What are the projects you aspire to? meager financial resources and agrowing population, Meeting the growing needs of Fnaideq entails employment prospects do not seem to get any better. the execution of many projects, starting from the An approximate 2000 to 3000 people are currently improvement of water networks to the roads and to without jobs and the municipality is helpless in trying the creation of new employment opportunities. All of to provide employment opportunities due to debt these require a large budget, which we currently don’t obligations running as high as LBP 2.1 billion. have.
issue 138 | January 2014 30 | Culture, religion & Art
Offre Joie
Establishment Offre Joie (Farah al Ata’) is a Lebanese youth-run non-governmental organization founded in 1985 pursuant to the Notice of Registration no. 212/AD. The organization is active all over Lebanon and Lebanese prisons and strives to ameliorate their entitles the Lebanese to equal services without any conditions. It distributes winter clothing and hygiene regional or sectarian discrimination. products to prisoners and writes reports to the prison wardens on the poor quality of life inside prisons and Offre Joie was established by a group of young proposes improvements. Offre Joie volunteers have volunteers- high-school and university students- who renovated 8 prisons, 3 of which meet high standards: believed in a unified Lebanon and wanted to create a Tebneen (2009), Batroun (2008) and Aley (2012). A space to meet and say “no” to war, bringing Lebanese master plan has also been devised for the new Zahle from different communities and fractions together prison. under an umbrella of love, forgiveness, and respect. Juvenile detainees were also hosted for a work camp The organization is lead by Mr. Melhem Khalaf and in Kfifan after attaining a judicial approval. Based is governed by a board consisting of five persons: on the interactions with these youths, the volunteers Mr. Mohamad Hmadeh, Mr. Paul Nassar, Mr. Walid formed a better understanding of the needs and misery Arnaout, Mr. Nadim Souaid, and Mr. Melhem Khalaf. in the area of Bab el Tebbaneh, where Offre Joie has been active since. Activities Since its founding, Offre Joie has undertaken diverse With time, the movement of the Offre Joie volunteers initiatives aimed at building a common platform has matured and acquired professional skills and for children, adolescents and young adults from all resources. Having committed themselves to alleviate over Lebanon. To this end, it organizes free summer human suffering in its diverse aspects and contexts, camps and development workshops and holds various the volunteers invested those skills in helping the social and educational activities and seminars on people of South Lebanon after the 2006 July War topics focusing on civil society issues, public health, by renovating 3 public schools and rebuilding two social work, promotion of citizenship, etc in order to neighborhoods. With equal enthusiasm, they extended reinforce civil peace. their efforts to all those affected by bombings and attacks in Geitawi, Ashrafieh and Hay Selloum to Offre Joie focuses on the poor and the disadvantaged. name but a few. Its first workshops were launched in Kfifan in 1992. Volunteers joined to renovate prisons and public schools and to improve the living conditions in Civil peace has always been at the center of Offre the neglected neighborhoods. The organization Joie’s mission. To this end, the organization has participated in the construction of a public school launched 31 initiatives aimed at preventing violence, in Akkar and renovated more than 12 other public the last of which was the Human Chain organized in schools. Offre Joie attends to the detainees in Al-Basta and Khandaq Al-Ghamiq.
issue 138 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. Culture, religion & Art | 31
Funding Offre Joie is able to implement its activities by using an Iftar in Bourj Abi Haidar after the clashes in the services of volunteers, financial support from both 2009, and a human chain between Basta el Tahta individuals and institutions in Lebanon and abroad. and Khandak Al Ghamik after the clashes between Main financial supporters of Offre Joie have included two religious groups are always on the agenda of the Municipality of Tripoli, Murex Co. (France), Les Offre Joie. Amis de Soeur Emmanuelle (France), and the Italian Cooperation. Offre Joie takes great care of avoiding Humanitarian Projects: dependency on financial donors, and it refuses to Pull du Prisonnier: On a yearly basis and around endorse any religious or political agenda whatsoever. the start of winter, Offre Joie organizes one day where volunteers go to almost all prisons in Peace-building Projects: Lebanon and distribute hygienic kits, cleaning Disaster Response: Unfortunately, in a volatile products, and sweaters to prisoners. Volunteers country such as Lebanon, this program is necessary go into the prison cells, evaluate the conditions and focuses on immediate response to a disaster. It of prisoners and the prison itself, talk with the can entail many aspects such as distributing food prisoners and distribute different materials to keep and hygiene kits to rebuilding destroyed areas to them warm and clean. ensure the safe return of inhabitants. Examples of Offre Joie’s disaster response program are the Arbre de Noel: As an end of the year celebration, 2006 War and Ashrafieh bombing. Offre Joie hosts over 1200 children from all over Lebanon to watch a kids’ play at Theatre Odeon. Peace Summer Camps: Every summer and as a After the play has ended, a present and a goody part of culture and knowledge sharing, Offre Joie bag including sandwiches, fruits, chocolates, organizes approximately 10 summer camps for candy, and juice are distributed to the children. children and youth from all over Lebanon. These children get to meet others from different regions, Prison/School/poor neighborhoods Chantier: backgrounds, and religions and live together for While summer camps are usually hosted for 10 days of peace-sharing, fun, adventure and children, chantiers (worksites) target the older culture. youth. Every summer, a prison, poor and vulnerable neighborhood and/or school are chosen 13 April: To say “no” to war is very important, to be renovated to the standards of human and and Offre Joie undertakes the remembrance of children’s rights. the war on April 13 as a way to gather the youth with different key institutions in Lebanon such as religious leaders, media representatives, etc. On this day, together as one, they gather to say NO to war.
Common Prayer: This is a time where volunteers of all religions and from all backgrounds and regions share some quiet and thoughts in order to say thanks and share praise.
Others: Other activities are always organized throughout the year depending on the need and emergencies within the country. Events such as
issue 138 | January 2014 32 | Culture, religion & Art popular culture
At the American University: Senior Year
I was introduced to another female journalist named Habbouba Haddad. She also published a women’s magazine entitled The New Life and asked me to assist her in the printing process, the editing and the translation of all news revolving around the life of western women.
Yet, the work was insufficient to cover the tuition fees for next October. What was I to do? Suddenly, it dawned on me that my sister in Johannesburg, South Africa, was married to a well-off man from the Moukhaiber family in Beit Mery. I barely knew my brother-in-law but thought that I could borrow some money from him and repay him when I would start working after graduation. He responded to my request and a month later, I received a bank transfer for 40 pounds.
And so the fourth year began. I completed the registration and set out to find a roommate in order to save myself some money. Again, I requested the dean to exempt me from attending morning prayers, for I had renewed my contract with the American mission and was committed to teach Arabic to an American physician and his wife, together with a new teacher who was sent to teach at the girls’ school and who later became the principal.
I enrolled in classes of poetry by Al-Mutanabbi, philosophy, William Shakespeare, Islamic sects and pedagogy. I enquired about astrology, by which I was fascinated, and winced at learning that it required knowledge in trigonometry and advanced mathematics.
The academic year was ticking away and I was still clueless about what the future held in store for me. My father believed that teaching was a decent, undemanding profession. “I am about to retire. This way, you could maybe help me out a little,” he would say.
One day, shortly before the graduation ceremony, I received a letter from Mr. Dodge saying “I have some good news for you.”
issue 138 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. debunking myth #77 Culture, religion & Art | 33
Do Humans Use Only 10% of Their Brains?
Myth: We all have heard the myth, whether from elementary science teachers or popular media that we only use 10% of our brain capacity. This implies that the biggest part of the brain remains unused and thus head injuries can only cause cognitive damage if they affect this 10%.
Fact: It is unclear how this myth started. Some attribute it to the 1908 writings of William James, an American psychologist who claimed that we only use a ‘small part’ of our brain in his book The Energies of Men. The myth is also attributed to Albert Einstein, but this has not been verified. So do we actually use such a small part of our brain? The answer is that even when performing very simple tasks, most of our brain is involved. Brain scans reveal that no part of the organ is inactive while its other parts are toiling away. The myth has probably lived on because of the fact that humans can lose some brain tissue but still function properly. In reality, however, several pathways in the brain can be used for the same purpose, meaning if one were to fail, another could be resorted to. This is, however, contested by the fact that damage to small parts of the brain can have serious consequences, such as strokes. On the other hand, evolution has shown that the human brain has actually been growing. If only 10% of it were used, it seems unlikely that the brain would grow mass it did not need. Finally, the brain is known to be highly interconnected. Thus, it is impossible for only one of its compartments to be in use and for the others to remain inactive at the same time. Promoting this type of knowledge as fact may appear attractive to those who maintain that our use of only 10% of the human brain indicates that it still has much potential to unveil. For some, the 10% may serve as motivation to work harder at reaching that remaining 90%. It is true that harder work will allow more synapses to develop in the brain due to stimuli, but this will not mean that new and unused parts of the brain will be used for the first time. If 90% of the brain were not used, then all the neuron pathways would be degenerated for lack of stimulus, which is clearly not the case.
issue 138 | January 2014 34 | Culture, religion & Art must-read books
Commander of the Faithful: The Life and Times of Emir Abd el-Kader John W. Kiser
In what is likely to be one of the most comprehensive biographies of Emir Abd el-Kader, John W. Kiser offers as much detail of the leader’s upbringing and family life as well as his political career. Throughout the book, we see el-Kader’s unshakable faith guide title, he quickly announced Jihad and worked to unite him through what is morally acceptable and what is seven different tribes to this end. In 1837, he signed not in war and politics. It is perhaps in the relevance a treaty with the French in which they recognized of this book to today’s context that its importance his authority over most of Algeria. After they broke lies. Not only can today’s Muslims learn about the this treaty, El-Kader launched his offensive and until application of the true morality in political practice 1847, he managed to continuously attack, defeat, and that the faith preaches, but the United States and harass the French soldiers. European countries can also learn from the ignorance of local customs and beliefs by the French troops in The Emir finally reached terms for surrender with Algeria when considering intervention. the French in 1847 on the condition that he would be allowed a safe passage to Egypt. This came after El-Kader’s family went to great lengths to cultivate support for him among regional tribes had declined a well-rounded character for a son whose father was and they had succumbed to the French instead. convinced he was bound for excellence. The young Despite the agreement, Abd El-Kader was captured Emir learned the Koran by heart, became familiar and imprisoned in France for four years, along with with its interpretations, was trained in horsemanship, other fighters and their families. Through his faith, and thus became passionate about horses. El-Kader the Emir was able to maintain his poise and patience was married at the very young age of 15 and two during his years in prison. He declined any privileged years later he and his father undertook the journey to treatment, and continued in his studious ways while Mecca to perform hajj; a journey that took them two imprisoned. It was rumored that he was reading a years. translation of the Bible. He had a special way with admirers and visitors, and never failed to charm In 1830, as the Turkish influence in the region was them. He became so popular among the French men waning, the French invaded Algiers on June 14. The and women that visits to him had to be restricted to city, as Kiser describes it, was ‘administered through only two per week. a complex balance of communal powers. Each community lived according to its own customary In the final stage of his incarceration, he was put up laws: Turks, Moors, Kougoulis, Jew, and Christians’. in a chateau in Amboise. Upon release, he moved It is because of this that only 6,000 Turks were able to Bursa, and finally settled in Damascus. There he to govern an area as big as France. The French had a stood up for and housed a number of Christians in different tactic. To quote one witness, a French soldier, his home when the civil conflict between the Druze “perhaps never, even in the age of the barbarians, and Christians in Lebanon spread to Damascus. Abd has there been an occupation carried out with such el-Kader remained in Damascus until his death in disorder as that of Algiers”. Soldiers pillaged the city, 1883. Today, he is remembered as one of the greatest the Turkish administrators began departing, and the Muslim leaders, and is extolled for upholding the order in the city transformed into anarchy. ideals of his faith in both peace and war. It is rare in today’s media to read about the achievements While under the Turks the religious aristocracy of Muslim leaders written by Western authors. But was not allowed to arm. But under the French they Kiser’s book, not only chooses the right example regained some of their political influence. When the that our generation could learn from, but allows the leaders of numerous tribes demanded of Muhi al- reader to draw parallels with today’s international Din, Emir’s father, to be their sultan, he immediately scene and rethink the strategies of both Muslims and passed this title on to his son. Upon receiving this new Westerners.
issue 138 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. must-read children’s book Culture, religion & Art | 35
My Grandma Will Always Remember Me
My Grandma Will Always Remember Me is a story written by the author Samar Mahfouz Barraj dedicated to the soul of her beloved grandmother, with whom she had a very special relationship and unforgettable memories. The book was published in 2012 by Yuki Press and is illustrated by Maya Fidawi. Farah Merhi attended to the book’s typography and graphic design. My Grandma Will Always Remember Me is aimed at 9 to 12-year olds.
Samar, the little girl in the story, has always found excuses for the actions of her “cool” grandma. If she threw money in the trashcan, it was to prove that money was not important. If she kept biscuits under her pillow, it was to sneak some sweets in defiance of her doctor’s recommendations. If she added pepper to her tea, it was definitely one of her new recipes. But why has grandmother forgotten the name of her favorite neighbor Nadia? Where did she hide her spectacles? Why did she ask the same question twice and tell the same story thrice?
Samar tries to understand why her grandmother has recently started to act strangely, until one day, she finds out that her grandmother has Alzheimer’s, which is why she often forgets things. Worried that, with time, her grandmother might forget her, Samar, sets out to help her remember the same way her grandmother used to help her learn letters, numbers and first words when Samar was little.
issue 138 | January 2014 36 | Culture, religion & Art Lebanon Families
Family Names Denoting Lebanese Towns (10)
In the tenth part of the series exploring the families named after Lebanese towns, The Monthly continues to track these families, which initially had different names but were later given the names of the towns into which they Tripoli Zgharta Balamand Roads moved. Some of the families maintained their sectarian affiliation, while A‘arjes Ehden
others converted into the mainstream sects of the region where they settled. Becharre The Cedars Batroun Hadet Hasroun Ras Baalbeck Deir el Ahmar Maqne Bekhazi: 478 members Jbail Qasr el-Banat Hadath Iaat This family is named after Bekhaz, a town located in Ghazir Baalbeck the Qada’a of Jbeil, 50 km from Beirut, at an altitude Jounieh Niha
of 400 m above the sea level. Bekhaz has around 190 BEIRUT Zahle people belonging to the Greek Orthodox community. Baabda Shtaura Aley Dahr el-Baidar Bhamdoun The Bekhazis are distributed by sect and region as Anjar Deir el-Qamar Meshref Beiteddine follows: Moukhtara Greek Orthodox Qaraoun Lake Yanta Saida Jezzine Bekhaz: 25 members Libbaya Aiha Ras Beirut : 230 Nabatiye Hasbaya Wajh Al-Hajar (Batroun) :45 Marjayoun Beaufort Castle Ashrafieh : 55 Sour Rmeil (Beirut) : 70 Maronite Sarba (Kessrouan) : 15 Shamati (Al-Shamati): 60 members This family name originates from the town of Shamat Bsous (Aley): 82 in the Qada’a of Jbeil, which is situated 50 km from Ashrafieh : 15 Beirut, at an altitude of 450 m above the sea level, with Hazmieh : 22 a predominantly Maronite population. Shamat is home M’allaqa (Zahle) : 13 to 700 people. Harat Hreik : 45 Rmeil (Beirut): 12 The Shamatis family consists of 60 Maronite members Harat al-Botm (Baabda): 50 settled in Batroun. Msaytbeh: 5 Tahwitat el-Nahr (Baabda): 38 Bchamouni (Al-Bchamouni): 7 members Aley: 15 This family name is derived from the town of Bchamoun, Kfare’may (Aley): 8 which is situated in the Qada’a of Aley, 15 km from Beirut, at an altitude of 420 m above the sea level, with Shia’a a Druze majority (90%) and a small Greek Orthodox Al-Khiyam: 18 community (10%). Bchamoun is home to 4250 people. Mays el-Jabal (Marjeyoun): 126 Zqaq el-Blat: 8 The Bchamouni family consists of 7 members settled in Beiteddine in the Shouf area. Baadarani (Al-Baadarani): 210 members This family name is derived from the town of Baadaran, Chartouni (Al-Chartouni): 1180 members which is situated in the Qada’a of Shouf, 70 km from The Chartouni family is named after Chartoun, a town Beirut at an altitude of 1000 m above the sea level. located in the Qada’a of Aley, 33 km from Beirut at an Baadaran’s population consists of a Druze majority altitude of 650 m above the sea level. Chartoun has a (70%) and a minority of Maronites and Catholics. The Maronite community of 2300 people. town has a population of approximately 3240 people. The Chartounis are distributed by sect and region as follows: The Baadaranis are Sunni, who are distributed in the Maronite following neighborhoods: Chartoun: 382 members Msaytbeh: 155 Al-Hadath al-Chimali: 90 Mina Hosn:10 Ain el-Remmaneh: 22 Dar Mraisseh: 25 Al-Qanayeh (Saida): 20 Zqaq el-Blat: 5
issue 138 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. Discover Lebanon Culture, religion & Art | 37
Saleh: 241 Yaroun Jaafar: 197 Quarter of its Lands Eroded by Israel Ghsham: 195 Qdouh: 103 Hijazi: 103 Yaroun is a southern Lebanese town located on the border with Israel. Since its founding in 1948, Greek Catholic the Jewish state has strived to expand and infringe Ajaqa: 293 into the territory of neighboring Lebanese towns. Qaloush: 176 Yaroun has had its share of violations committed Salloum: 140 by Israel and the elderly estimate that Israel has Haddad: 78 nibbled away approximately a quarter of the area Bechara: 64 of Yaroun. Badin: 59 Etymology Other families: Neemeh, Nasser, Khalaf, Hanna In his book entitled Names of Lebanese Towns and Local authorities Villages, author Anis Fraiha mentions that the name The first municipal council in Yaroun was established ‘yaroun’ appeared in the Book of Joshua, tracing the in 1928 under the presidency of Hussein Ali Jaafar. word back to Canaanite origins meaning ‘fear’ or Upon his death, Youssef Mohammad Hajj came to ‘panic’. He adds that it could also be an alteration of office which he held until 1934 when the municipality the word ‘Yaroum’, which means ‘high place’. was cancelled. Location Yaroun is located in the Qada’a of Bint Jbeil near the The local authority was re-established in later Lebanese-Israeli border. It is bordered by Israel to stages and today the municipal council consist of the east and south, by Rmeish and Ain Ebel to the 15 members. Yaroun’s share of the Independent west and by Maroun Al-Ras to the north. It stretches Municipal Council stood at LBP 224 million and LBP across 1400 hectares and is 125 km from Beirut at an 237 million in 2007 and 2008 respectively. Its share altitude of 800 m above the sea level. rose to LBP 328 in 2011. The town has 3 Mukhtars and an Ikhtiyariah body of 3 members. Yaroun may be reached via two routes: Educational Institutions Tyre, Tebnine, Bint Jbeil, Yaroun The town has promoted education for many decades. Kfarkala, Aitaroun, Yaroun In 1974, Saida’s bishop of the Greek Catholic Church Population established the first Episcopal school, which was Yaroun’s registered population is estimated at 7000 passed in 1975 to the Salvatorian sisters and was people. However, only 2000 people live in the town, named the Saint George School. In 1952, Yaroun’s and habit over 1000 houses. The majority of Yaroun’s inhabitants donated a land to the Ministry of National inhabitants are Shia’a (75%) and the rest are Greek Education for the construction of a public school Catholic (25%) in town. Another private charity school opened its doors in 1960, but the decline in student population Voters resulted in the closure of some schools. The Saint In 2013, there were 4360 registered voters in the George School- a private middle school- is the only town compared to 3482 in 2004 and 3025 in 2000. school operating in town and it had 62 students in the Voters are distributed over many families, the largest school year 2009/10. of which are the following: Shia’a Economic Life Rida: 405 voters Some of the residents in Yaroun earn their living Saab: 285 by growing tobacco and olive trees. Others depend Farhat: 266 mainly on the remittances sent by the expatriates in Chahine: 260 the US and South America.
issue 138 | January 2014 38 | Culture, religion & Art Discover the world
The Republic of Cabo Verde Beautiful Location with Bad Living Conditions
The Republic of Cabo Verde is one of those small countries whose exceptional geographic location fails to play a role in improving the well-being of their population and still rank among the poorest countries of the world. Location The Republic of Cabo Verde is an archipelago located agricultural prosperity and instead steers the economy in the Atlantic Ocean, 500 km off the coasts of towards services, commerce and tourism. Cabo Senegal, Mauritania and Gambia. It was uninhabited Verde’s economy relies heavily on salt production, until 1456 when Portuguese colonialists arrived and fishing and banana plantations. Its GDP stands at settled there. The islands declared their independence USD 1.8 billion, which brings the median personal from Portugal on July 5, 1975. income to less than USD 3.460 per year.
Its strategic location made the Republic of Cabo Political System Verde a center for the transatlantic slave trade. Today, The archipelago’s constitution was formulated in it is home to five airports, which have facilitated the 1980 and amended later in 1992. According to the emigration of its inhabitants to Europe, Senegal and constitution, the government is tasked with devising the United States of America. and executing the internal and external policies of the country and the Prime Minister is responsible Area before the National Assembly. Initially, the Republic The Republic of Cabo Verde stretches across 4033 of Cabo Verde adopted the single-party rule granting km2. Its largest island, both in size and population, is the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Santiago, which hosts the nation’s capital, Praia. Cape Verde full political power.
Population Soon after the 1980 coup in Guinea-Bissau, relations The population of the Republic of Cabo Verde is between the Republic of Cabo Verde and Guinea- estimated at approximately 525000 people and its Bissau deteriorated. Cabo Verde abandoned its hope annual population growth is 1.43%. for unity with Guinea-Bissau and formed the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde. The one Religion party rule ended in 1991 paving the way for the first 90% of the population is Catholic and the rest are multi-party elections, which passed the power to the Evangelical Christians and Jews. A small Muslim Movement for Democracy opposition group. community has emerged recently due to the emigration of the Senegalese to the island. The Cape Verdean Independent Democratic Union is the third party with seats at the National Assembly. Language The Democratic system at the Republic of Cabo Verde Having been colonized by Portugal for around three stipulates the election of the President of the Republic decades, Portuguese is the official language in the by a two-round direct general vote for a five-year term Republic of Cabo Verde. that may be renewed only once. The Movement for Democracy candidate Jorge Carlos Fonseca won the Economy 2011 presidential elections gaining 16,2000 votes out The Republic of Cabo Verde is a poverty-stricken of 30,4000. The Parliament consists of 72 members country that suffers a lack of natural resources. It also and is also elected directly for five years according to suffers from a dire water shortage, which hinders a proportional system.
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November 2 own term by one and a half years former ISF Chief, Ashraf Rifi, as The United Nations and the Arab calling on Grand Mufti Sheikh being a militia man who used to League Special Envoy to Syria, Mohammed Rashid Qabbani to cover up the smuggling of weapons al-Akhdar al-Ibrahimi arrives in resign to “preserve the unity of to Tripoli’s militias and into Syria. Lebanon and holds separate meetings Muslims.” AUB mourns the death of student with the President of the Republic, Marwan Hamzah who fell from the the Premier and the Speaker of November 6 5th floor at the university; suicide Parliament. All three reiterate MP Walid Jumblat tells LBC’s rumors spread after his death. that Lebanon must participate in Kalam el-Nass that he is still a President Suleiman receives PM- the Geneva II convention, for it is centrist, adding that he is against designate Tamam Salam who asserts directly concerned with the Syrian the formation of a fait accompli that he will patiently continue to crisis and the plight of refugees. government and urging people to hold on. Two German nationals briefly forget about Hezbollah’s weapons. Speaker Nabih Berri discloses kidnapped, then released in the Student elections at the American during Wednesday’s Parliament Beqa’a valley. The security forces University of Beirut result in session that Israel has set up spy arrest the two later for drug the victory of the Free Patriotic stations and surveillance cameras trafficking. Movement, the Amal Movement near the border town of Kfarkala. Lebanese Army soldier gunned and Hezbollah who were allied with down by two masked men in Tripoli. the Progressive Socialist Party in 4 November 8 faculties out of 6. Caretaker Minister of Interior November 4 The Governor of the North and Municipalities Marwan 3 gunmen from Tripoli’s Bab el- refuses to approve the march that Charbel meets the religious and Tebbaneh intercept a bus carrying the Jabal Mohsen residents were political dignitaries of Tripoli at the workers from Bab Tebbaneh on planning toward the An-Nour residence of Mufti Sheikh Malek their way back from Beirut and Square in Tripoli to protest against Shaar to discuss the security plan of shoot them in the legs. Tripoli’s sedition. the city and asserts that the security MPs and dignitaries condemn the France’s First Lady forces shall not be a “false witness”. incident. ValerieTierweiler arrives in First Investigative Military Judge Quarrels over Pamela Jawhari Lebanon to take part in a series of Riad Abou Ghaida summons former leave 4 dead and 3 injured in the social and cultural activities. MP Ali Eid for questioning over town of Mastita, Jbeil. On the 50th anniversary of the Tripoli’s twin bombings. The Free Patriotic Movement establishment of the Institute of The Loyalty to Resistance Bloc efforts yield the convening of the Judicial Studies, President Michel accuses the Future Movement of Eastern Christian Gathering and Suleiman reiterates that justice interference in the Syrian crisis. General Michel Aoun reiterates the must strike again with an iron fist In a first of its kind ice-breaking importance of the Christian role in and urges parties to desist from move, 4 Future Movement MPs the east during his speech. boycotting and disruption. meet 4 rivals from the Free Patriotic Mass held in Zahle on the 22nd Caretaker PM Najib Mikati calls Movement in Parliament to discuss anniversary of former MP Joseph for a parliamentary session to define the relationships between the two Skaff’s death in the presence of the jurisdictions of a caretaker blocs. Keeping the channels of the Lebanese Forces representative Cabinet. communication open is the only MP Tony Abou Khater and other State Commissioner to the agreement reached during the March 14 MPs. Salim Aoun attends Military Court Judge Sakr Sakr meeting. on behalf of the Free Patriotic takes legal action against former Future Movement Secretary Movement and Elie Skaff asserts MP Ali Eid and his bodyguard for General Ahmad Hariri responds to his alienation from all political hiding a wanted suspect in Tripoli’s remarks made by MP Mohammad alignments. Hezbollah was not twin bombings case. He also files Raad by saying “we will not invited to attend the mass. another lawsuit against Soukaina surrender to the will of puppet The Higher Islamic Council Ismail for facilitating the entry of soldiers serving the Syrian-Iranian convenes at Mohammad-al-Amine the cars from Syria. troops.” Mosque, Downtown Beirut, in the The Lebanese judiciary starts presence of caretaker PM Najib November 7 investigations into the Head of the Mikati and former PM Fouad Head of the Loyalty to Resistance Higher Relief Committee, Ibrahim Seniora and decides to extend its Bloc, MP Mohammad Raad brands Bashir, and his transfer of public
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funds to the tune of USD 10 million presence of former PM Saad Hariri. public funds and money laundering. to his private account in Russia. The attendees underscore the need The owner of Vaocau Company, to maintain stability and the Saudi Hussein Fawaz, and his wife were November 9 King reiterates the Kingdom’s also charged together with the two The PM-designate Tamam Salam willingness to assist in relieving the suspects, and all four were referred assures that the Future Movement is burden of Syrian refugees. to the Investigative Judge in Beirut. not plotting against him. Head of the Higher Relief Hezbollah supporters stage night Committee, Ibrahim Bashir, and November 16 protests over the episode of Basmat his wife arrested and referred to Hezbollah’s Secretary General Watan’s TV show, which aired a skit the financial public prosecution Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah appears in with a Hassan Nasrallah imitator. over their alleged embezzlement of person during a religious ceremony The Head of the Higher Relief public funds. held in the Southern Suburbs on Committee, Ibrahim Bashir, denies The Parliamentary Committee the Day of Ashura and asserts the allegations against him and on Media and Communications that he who ties the formation holds Suheil Bouji, the Secretary- holds a meeting to discuss the spy of government to Hezbollah’s General of the caretaker Cabinet, devices set up by the Israelis and withdrawal from Syria is flogging accountable for framing him. urges serious action to address these a dead horse, adding that the party March 8 Forces win the AUB violations. does not need any cover from elections in Beirut and March 14 anyone for its weapons or presence Forces win in Jbeil. November 13 in Syria. National polio vaccination Two gunmen on a motorcycle In response to Nasrallah’s campaign begins in Lebanon. shoot dead the pro-Hezbollah speech, former PM Saad Hariri Sunni Sheikh Saadeddine Ghiyyeh holds Hezbollah responsible for November 11 in Tripoli. Hezbollah’s Secretary the intervention in Syria and all its Sunni Sheikh Salem al-Rafei General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah spillovers into Lebanon. proclaims Sheikh Ahmad Al- says the assassination is aimed President Michel Suleiman Assira as a leader for the Sunni against the resistance and deplores sponsors the launching of the book in a speech delivered in front of the lukewarm reaction to the attack. on the visit of His Holiness Pope the survivors and the families of Lawyer Hoda Eid, sister of Ali Benedict XVI to Lebanon. victims of Tripoli’s twin bombings. Eid, hands the First Investigative Iranian Ambassador receives MP MP Mohammad Kabbara urges the Military Judge Riad Abou Ghaida Suleiman Frangieh who brands the referral of the crime to the Justice a medical certification citing health Intelligence Branch as a mistrusted Council. reasons to justify her brother’s militia and accuses it of fabricating Refaat Eid holds a press inability to appear in court and calls the allegations against previous MP conference where he accuses the for the release of his driver Ahmad Ali Eid. Information Branch of framing his al-Ali. Individual clashes in Aisha father in the twin bombings case and Bakkar, Beirut, leave 4 injured. targeting Jabal Mohsen in particular. November 14 The detainees over Abra’s He adds “The Information Branch Former PM Fouad Seniora incidents moved from Rihaniyeh shed our blood and therefore we deplores the assassination of Sunni Military Prison to Jezzine Prison regard the shedding of their blood Sheikh Saadeddine Ghiyyeh in and a delegation of their families as halal (permissible)”. Tripoli. visits MP Bahiyah Hariri to thank Former MP Fares Soueid holds Hezbollah’s Secretary General her for her efforts. a press conference to reiterate Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah appears in his opposition to the blocking of person in front of his supporters at November 18 Qartaba road, wondering whether the Sayyed al-Shouhada compound The March 14 coalition or not Hezbollah supports road- and says that the Kingdom of Saudi candidate, George Jreij, elected blocking. Arabia is preventing the formation as the new head of the Beirut Bar “He, who once appealed against of government. Association at the Justice Palace the extension of Parliament’s term “We won’t take part in any following victory against his March could never accept the extension political operation that covers up for 8 rival Fadi Barakat. The tally was of his own,” says President Michel Hezbollah and facilitates its entry 2664 against 1439 out of a total Suleiman. into Syria,” says former PM Saad 4794 votes. Beirut’s Marathon kicks off with Hariri in response to Nasrallah’s 20,000 Syrian refugees flock runners from at least 36 countries. speech. from the Syrian town of Qalamoun Financial public prosecutor into Arsal for fear of potential November 12 Judge Ali Ibrahim files a lawsuit strikes. President Michel Suleiman meets against the Head of the Higher Tripoli’s security plan launched King Abdallah Bin Abdul Aziz in Relief Committee, Ibrahim Bashir, amidst clashes between the army the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the and his wife for embezzlement of and gunmen in Bab el-Tebbaneh.
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The plan stipulates the deployment arrested by the Lebanese Army but Monday at the Four Points Hotel of 500 members of the Internal then released a year ago. in Verdun and the Lebanese Army Security Forces in Bab el-Tebbaneh The Future Bloc demands circulate the photo of a fugitive and Jabal Mohsen. the referral of the Jnah attack to linked to the bombings. General Michel Aoun announces the Justice Council and views in Caretaker Prime Minister from the Sagesse University that the Nasrallah’s words and Hezbollah’s Najib Mikati meets his Turkish Taef Accord is not a solution but a deviations a threat to the existence counterpart in Turkey and urges fraud designed to reinforce the grip of Lebanon. the reconsideration of the refugee of foreign countries on Lebanon. The Lebanese Army arrests 14 file because Lebanon has grown In a speech during the Baabda Syrians and Algerians in the fringes incapable of accommodating them. Declaration Forum at the Phoenicia of Arsal. President Michel Suleiman, Hotel, President Michel Suleiman President Michel Suleiman warns MP Suleiman Frangieh, Minister calls on introducing the Baabda from the implications of Lebanon’s Mohammad Safadi and delegations Declaration into the constitution. refugee crisis in his speech during from the Future Movement and the Bahia Hariri and the Islamic the Arab-African summit. PSP extend their condolences at the Jama’a hold a large meeting at the Iranian Embassy. Marj Zouhour Mosque in Hasbaya November 21 The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the presence of Taymour Jumblat, The Highest Defense Council urges its nationals to leave Lebanon. representing the Progressive convenes in Baabda and condemns March 8 and March 14 Forces Socialist Party, in order to reject the attack against the Iranian win equal seats at the USJ student strife and prevent its transmission Embassy. elections and the Lebanese Forces from Syria to Sheba’a and Hasbaya. Speaker Nabih Berri adjourns commends the progress it has made parliamentary session until from last year. November 19 December 18. Internal Security Forces deploy Iranian officials, including November 25 in Jabal Mohsen and Bab Tebbaneh. Iranian Deputy Minister of Foreign A military parade marks the A delegation from the Free Affairs Hussein Amir Abdel ceremony held at the Chafik Wazzan Patriotic Movement and another Lahyan, accept condolences over Avenue on the 70th anniversary from the Phalanges Party hold talks the death of the bombing victims. of Lebanon’s independence in in Parliament as part of the former’s Britain’s Ambassador to Lebanon the presence of President Michel initiative to end the political Tom Flitcher shows solidarity by Suleiman, Speaker Nabih Berri, deadlock. offering condolences at the Iranian Caretaker PM Najib Mikati and Grand Mufti Sheikh Mohammad Embassy. PM-designate Tamam Salam. Rashid Qabbani receives the Iranian Rumors suggest that the two DNA test results reveal the Ambassador Ghadanfar Rukun suicide bombers had entered identities of the two suicide bombers Abadi to Lebanon. Lebanon a few days earlier and who targeted the Iranian Embassy in President Michel Suleiman checked into a hotel in Verdun as Beirut. The first is a Lebanese from arrives in Kuwait to attend the Arab- tourists. Saida named Moueen Abou Dahr African Summit. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the second is a Palestinian named Minister of Energy and Water condemns the attack against the Adanan Mohamad. Both were born Jobran Bassil holds petroleum Iranian Embassy in Beirut and all in 1992 and are said to have been discussions with Speaker Nabih other terrorist attacks. supporters of Sheikh Ahmad el-Assir. Berri and Caretaker PM Najib During a speech at Biel Mikati and LF leader says “we want November 22 marking the 77th anniversary of clean hands to extract oil.” In his speech on the eve of the establishment of the Phalanges 255 Syrians depart from Lebanon the Independence Day, President Party, former President of the for Hanover; they are the fourth batch Michel Suleiman addresses the Republic Amine Gemayel says that of refugees accepted by Germany. Lebanese saying “this independence Hezbollah is exposing itself and cannot be realized with parties who Lebanon to what’s beyond their November 20 decide to dissociate themselves endurance capacity. Two suicide bombers explode from the notion of the state.” Speaker Nabih Berri arrives in themselves in front of the Iranian The Lebanese army dismantles Iran for an official visit. Embassy in the Jnah area in Beirut, a car booby trapped with about 400 Kidnappers of Mohammed injuring 147 people and killing kilograms of explosive materials on Salman Chmostar call his family 25 others including the Iranian the main road between the towns of from a Syrian number and demand Cultural Attaché. The al-Qaeda – Younin and Maqna in the Beqa’a a ransom of USD 2 million. linked Abdulla Azzam Brigades Valley, north of Lebanon. Minister of National Defense claim responsibility for the attack Sources report that the suicide Fayez Ghosn affirms on Al-Jadeed in a voice recording by Sheikh bombers who blew themselves up TV the presence of Al-Qaeda Sirajeddine Zureiqat who was near the Iranian Embassy spent members in Lebanon.
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November 26 Minister of Energy and Water Parliamentary committees Disputes erupt between pro- tells As-Safir that the bids for oil brief foreign ambassadors and March 8 and pro-March 14 students and gas exploration will be held Lebanese politicians on the recently at St. Joseph University in Beirut even if the Cabinet fails to convene. established Israeli spying stations in the wake of the student election Maronite Patriarch Mar Bechara along its border with Lebanon. results. The quarrel began following Boutros Al-Rai returns from Rome, Palestinian PM Rami Hamdallah the comments sprayed on the denying any intention to resign. visits Lebanon and meets Lebanese university walls in support of Habib General Michel Aoun urges PM officials to discuss the conditions of Chartouni. MP Sami Gemayel urges Najib Mikati to leave premiership. Palestinian refugees in Lebanon. the university’s administration to STL Trial Chamber to hold a The College Protestant Francais assume its responsibility and LF hearing on December 2. school evacuated over false alarm Leader Samir Gegea says that they PM Najib Mikati meets the in connection with bomb threats will not be responsible for what French Minister of Foreign Affairs targeting the Saudi Embassy. happens next if no actions are Laurent Fabius in France. Ali El-Hajj Hassan, nephew of taken to curb the provocations. The MP Suleiman Frangieh Lebanese Minister of Agriculture Hussein university administration announces announces during a talk show Hajj Hassan, dies along members of the suspension of classes. appearance with Kalam el-Nass Hezbollah during fighting in Syria. Speaker Nabih Berri continues that President Michel Suleiman has his visit to Iran and meets his backstabbed him stressing that the November 30 counterpart Ali Larijani and neutral government is unlikely to The Army Command- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, see the light. Directorate of Orientation uncovers hoping that the Iranian-American Customs’ officials strike after and detonates 3 Grad rockets set to agreement will bring about internal clash with journalists in protest of be launched in Al-Qaa’. agreements. what they believed to be an offense Salafist parties and organizations MP Walid Jumbat refuses to against the Lebanese Customs. headed by Sheikh Dai Al-Islam Al- link between the attack against the President Michel Suleiman urges Shahhal block Al-Masnaa road to Iranian Embassy and Hezbollah’s the pertinent authorities to resolve hold Friday prayers in protest of the activism in Syria, asserting the the Custom’s controversy. arrest of some Salafist members. presence of Al-Qaeda in Lebanon. PM Najib Mikati heads for Qatar Jabah Mohsen’s inhabitants Bkerki Patriarchate media senior for one day and meets Qatari Prince stage protests in support of the Arab Walid Ghayyad denies the rumors Tamim to discuss the relations Democratic Party. claiming that Patriarch al- Rai between the two countries and the Caretaker Minister of Interior intends to resign in order to take need to support Lebanon in facing and Municipalities Marwan over the post of Cardinal Leonardo the burdens of the Syrian refugees. Charbel promotes Acting ISF Chief Sandri at the Vatican. Speaker Nabih Berri returns Brigadier General Ibrahim Basbous from Iran and reveals that he did not to the rank of Major General. November 27 mediate to reconcile the differences Ceremony held in Dbayyeh in Lebanese Customs’ agents beat between Iran and the Kingdom of commemoration of the death of journalist Riad Kobeissi and Al- Saudi Arabia. President Rene Mouawad in the Jadeed TV crew after denying them Tensions flare up again at the presence of Minister Gaby Layyoun entry to interview the Customs’ St. Joseph University causing who represented General Michel Aoun. Director General. The journalists suspension of classes. were working on a report about A Syrian national threatens to December 1 corruption among customs officials blow himself up at the Lebanese 6 dead and 50 injured in the 18th at Beirut’s International Airport University’s Faculty of Letters round of Tripoli’s clashes. and used a megaphone to heckle and Humanities in Zahle and the PM Najib Mikati visits Greek customs officials outside their security forces arrest him. Orthodox Patriarch John Yaziji X heavily guarded offices around and reassures him that progress on noon. The security forces release November 29 freeing both kidnapped bishops in Kobeissi and his colleagues after The military committee of Homs is being made. interrogating them. Tripoli’s custodians of blood claim Acting State Prosecutor Judge Samir The repercussions of the St. responsibility for the gunfire against Hammoud refers the lawsuit file by Al- Joseph University incident continue 4 Alawi workers, stressing that the Jadeed TV to the Military Court. and MP Hassan Fadlallah accuses attack is a retaliation to the offenses The residents of Temnin pressure March 14 Forces of instigation, committed by Ali Eid. Syrian refugees into removing their refusing the slogans maintaining The judiciary continues its tents after a group of Syrians raped that the St. Joseph University is investigation into the Customs’ a mentally-challenged teenage boy Bachir Gemayel’s university. incident. from the town. The coroner’s report denies all rape allegations.
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This Month in History- Lebanon First Extension of the 1972 Parliament Cabinet requests extension and the MPs approve it
The approval of Law No. 246 on May 31, 2013, which exceptionally extended the legislature’s term until November 20, 2014 has constituted an unprecedented incident. The situation today differs drastically from that of 1976 as it is considered relatively stable with no sufficient reasons to justify the extension.
The compelling reasons cited to validate the current rest of ministers with the exception of the Minister extension centered mostly on the uncertainty of the of Interior Camille Chamoun, who could not get political and security situation, which were seen to from Saadiyat to the Baabda Presidential Palace, complicate the actual elections and also the planning and Minister Ghassan Tueini, who was extending of the electoral campaign. Laws no. 1/76 and 3/78 condolences on behalf of the President over the had extended the life of Parliament on account death of a former minister. Extending the life of of war and other extraneous circumstances. The the legislature was on the table and the session law implemented in May this year was allegedly was dedicated to addressing the circumstances proposed to shun sedition and contain the potential and compelling reasons for such an extension. The repercussions of the critical conflicts besetting ministers conceded that holding the elections under us. Hence, by the power of MPs, concepts such the existing circumstances was out of question. as elections and change of political power have Thus, an emergency law was drafted stipulating become threats to national peace. that Parliament’s term be extended by a year on account of the ongoing war. To justify today’s extension of Parliament’s life based on previous examples is, in fact, a huge Several political and juristic stances greeted the mistake. The current status quo is by no means extension, some of which supported the decision, equivalent or comparable to the one that prevailed others were sympathetic, or objected. during the Civil War, and even then the latter did not occur spontaneously but was the result of - Pro-extension positions exhaustive legislative and legal debates. Prime Minister Rashid Karami: “..a constitutional vacuum has been avoided and we have decided to First Extension Draft Law prolong the legislature’s life span by one year. We th The then Parliament was elected between the 12 will send an emergency draft-law to this end.” and 30th of April 1972 and its term of office was supposed to have expired on May 2, 1976. However, Interior Minister Camille Chamoun: “..I find the outbreak of war on April 13, 1975 made it myself coerced to agree over this unprecedented difficult, if not impossible, to hold the elections first. Given the delicacy of the current status quo, as scheduled and thus entailed the issuance of the the extension of Parliament’s term seems inevitable first-ever decision to extend Parliament’s term. against the impossibility of holding the elections under these circumstances. Similar precedents have Having realized that the war was unlikely to end in been established in Britain and France during the the near future, the Cabinet convened a session on First World War. Democratic systems are prepared th Wednesday, 14 of January 1976- approximately for any emergency and it is always possible to fill 6 months prior to the expiry of the legislature’s any constitutional void through legislation and term- which was headed by the then President of laws.” the Republic Suleiman Frangieh. The session took place in the presence of PM Rahid Karami and the
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Health Minister, Prince Majid Arslan: “..One Jurist Edmond Rabbat: “..The issue has been cannot hold elections in the presence of weapons raised for two years now. It would be futile to deny and grudges. The government approved the draft- that the legislative branch has the right to amend law extending Parliament’s term by one year, and the electoral law and to give such an amendment Parliament might prolong it even further. immediate effect, thus pushing the expiry of Parliament’s term until a further date, especially Head of Administration and Justice Committee, that Parliament’s life is set out in the electoral law, MP Nathem Al-Qadiri: “..There exists no not in the constitution, as underlined by the Prime connection between the extension of Parliament’s Minister. This matter which has been a subject term and the amendment of the constitution in of controversy for over a year has now become preparation for the extension of the presidential accepted as axiomatic.” term, especially that the presidential elections would take place by the end of summer, meaning About parliamentary mandate, Jurist Rabbat it would be possible to elect a President for the said: “the parliamentary mandate differs, in its Republic in stable and safe conditions.” legal nature, from the concept of mandate in private affairs. The elections were nothing but a MP Mounir Abou Fadel: “..Whereas conducting means to form the legislature and reflect the will the elections seems impractical amid the rising of the people. The mandate was granted so that tensions and the proliferation of weapons; whereas Parliament, as whole, not as individual deputies, the government had extended the tenures of exercises legislation for the benefit of the people. municipal councils and Mukhtars for the same The extension of the legislature’s term was no new reasons; I cannot see any constitutional obstacle to constitutional contrivance as it had often occurred the extension of Parliament’s term.” in foreign countries as a result of the both world wars.”
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- Positions showing understanding President of the Beirut Bar Roger Chikhani: Approved Law “..The matter of extending Parliament’s term may Finally, and after the Cabinet had proposed an be approached or interpreted in two ways. The extension by only one year, Law No. 1/76 was first is a narrow interpretation suggesting that the approved prolonging Parliament’s lifespan by legislature cannot stretch out its own term of office two years and 28 days until June 30, 1978. There on the grounds that Article 24 of the Constitution remains though a main difference between the prescribes that MPs be elected, not appointed. term extensions of 1976 and that of 2013: the Therefore the extension stifles the spirit of the former occurred upon a draft law proposed by the constitution and the will of the people. Cabinet while the latter was a decision made by parliamentarians themselves. The second interpretation holds that, according to Article 27 of the Constitution, parliamentary mandate is a kind of mandate granted for a specified period and binding the agent and the principal to certain rights and duties. However, Article 27 gives agents full liberty to legal disposition and legislation but does allow voters the right to subject them to any previous conditions or obligations. Therefore, the law should be interpreted wisely and in light of the current state of affairs. In principle, the jurist is inclined not to expand its interpretation but the executor cannot conform to this propensity and must enforce the laws in light of the facts marking his rule.”
Chikhani concluded by saying “regardless of the interpretation, the constitutional vacuum must be avoided before it occurs. This is the main wish of the legislator.”
- Anti-extension positions MP Mikhael Daher: “I am against any term extension because Parliament has been dormant for nine months. One cannot encourage inactivity. MPs could have made their sessions public and brought the executive branch to account by pushing toward its resignation after all that happened since the eruption of the crisis. But its apathy makes it partly responsible and unworthy of having its term extended. “
MP Nadim Gemayyel: “It all boils down to the government. If it cannot hold the parliamentary elections, then it should refer an extension proposal to Parliament. But I will not approve any such proposal if presented by a deputy because this falls within the power of the executive branch.”
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This Month in History – Sudan
On the 1st of January 1956 at 11:00 am sharp, the flag of the Anglo-Egyptian condominium slid down the flagpole giving way to the Sudanese flag, which was raised signaling the birth of the new and independent Republic of Sudan.
The Ottoman rule of Sudan began in 1821 with the annexation of South Sudan to the Ottoman Empire and ended when Mohammad Ahmad proclaimed himself the Mahdi and led a revolt against Ottoman rulers, forcing them out of Sudan and declaring the establishment of a Mahdist state in 1885. However, the Muslim state failed to survive and was soon recaptured by the Anglo-Egyptian force in 1898. Britain and Egypt signed a condominium agreement under which Sudan was to be administered jointly.
While Britain set out to draw the Sudanese clearly evident in 1936 when they established borders in a way that ultimately served its private a North Sudan Advisory Council to prepare the interests, the nationalist Sudanese forces were North Sudan for self-rule. Later between 1940 starting to harbor deeper hatred and rage against and 1945, a political movement known as the the colonialists. The year 1924 was marked by Graduates’ Congress emerged and pressured the vehement events. Several demonstrations were British administration to help the South Sudan staged by the students of the Military Academy keep up with the education and development in addition to protests led by the White Brigade reforms occurring in the North. League, an organized nationalist resistance movement headed by an army officer Ali Abdul These pressures resulted in the formation of a Latif. Soon enough, these movements escalated 13-member legislature and a council of ministers into a military conflict between the British forces in 1948, which constituted the first step toward and the Sudanese nationalists, culminating in the independence. An agreement with the joint rule assassination in Cairo of Sir Lee Stack, Governor followed in 1954, granting Sudan the right to - General of Sudan. The British were infuriated by decide its own destiny. The first general elections the incident and reacted by expelling all Egyptian were held that year and resulted in victory for the officials from Sudan. However, the Sudanese NUP, and its leader, Ismail al-Aihari who became nationalists chose to side with the Egyptians against Sudan’s first Prime Minister. the British forces and killed dozens of colonialist troops in a heroic confrontation that preceded the On December 19, 1955, Parliament voted killing of chief Sudanese commander Abdul Fadeel unanimously that Sudan should become “a fully Almaz. independent sovereign state”. The Sudanese flag was run up the flagpole at 11:00 am 1st January In 1930, the British decided to rule the North and 1956 and a new Arab state was born. Sudan South of Sudan under separate administrations. joined the Arab League on January 19, 1956 and The Egyptians backed up the nationalist movement the United Nations on November 12 the same in the north while the south remained isolated. year. The compromises of the British forces became
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Sexual Violence Scarring Syrian Women and Girls
The atrocities of the Syrian civil war and the lack of a tangible solution in sight have overshadowed the plight of Syria’s vulnerable citizens throughout the media. Numerous relief organizations have issued warnings about recurring violence and rape against women and children. But with people occupied with who made what military advances, and local norms shunning the importance of speaking out on such matters, it is easy to disregard the sexual - and therefore mental- health of those not directly involved in the fighting. The object of this article is not to point fingers at the perpetrators, but to highlight the other end of this crime; the women and children suffering from the trauma of rape and violence.
In the midst of the violence taking place in Syria and on pregnancies and sexually-transmitted diseases without its borders, it is impossible to attain a close number of access to proper health care. Among refugees, though the number of people who have been subject to rape or rape does not seem to be as pronounced, but young gender-based violence. A 2012 study conducted by the women and girls are being forced into marriages or sexual International Rescue Committee titled “Syrian Women encounters with Lebanese and Syrian men in exchange and Girls: Fleeing death, facing ongoing threats and for basic living services such as accommodation. humiliation” was able to shed light on the size of the issue through the findings of focus group discussions Apart from those who are suspect to rape and violent with Syrian refugees in Lebanon. Many respondents conditions, Syrian women in relatively peaceful reported accounts of sexual violence as faced by women circumstances are also unable to access adequate health and girls in Syria, along with other forms of violence care as the entire system has become almost non-existent such as torture and murder. As many homes were in Syria. With the destruction of the country’s medical attacked by fighters, it was not uncommon for these sector and the interruption of medical supply routes, crimes to take place in front of other family members. contraceptives, prenatal care, and delivery services Participants said that armed men would enter homes are barely available. The World Health Organization looking to target women in specific as a mechanism reported a rise in unsafe abortions as women find to coerce the men. This also implies that children are themselves with unwanted pregnancies and inadequate being subjected to the sight of close family members or health care. In addition, UNFPA estimates that around relatives being raped. 250,000 will be pregnant by the end of 2013 inside Syria and among the refugees. This vicious civil war continues to surprise onlookers with the lack of sanctity for human worth that fighters The spread of gender based violence, coupled with the have exhibited. Participants have illustrated incidents of absence of medical care, is damaging the reproductive women being raped, killed and thrown out on the streets health of Syrian women, and causing unwanted of villages. Teenage girls were frequently attacked, pregnancies at a time where providing for a family is and even pregnant women have not been spared. The hard enough without. Humanitarian aid reaching women importance of tradition to family life further exacerbates inside Syria and in refugee camps needs to expand on the situation. Young survivors of rape are often married the availability of dignity kits and contraceptives. More off to their cousins in order to preserve their reputation importantly, it is of prime importance to raise awareness and honor. On the other hand, some women are shunned when possible – as among refugee settlements – to the and/or subject to violence for shaming their families by importance of speaking up about sexual violence, as being raped. victims, and as families. This is especially important as all tools of law enforcement have waned and it is only up These cultural factors only make matters worse as they to citizens to fend for themselves now. Aid organizations allow for these crimes to go by unnoticed and prevent can also look to provide medical and emotional support victims from speaking up and finding medical care. to victims, and extend family planning advice and tools Reporting rape and violence may then only subject to refugees. The less this issue is treated as a taboo, the women to more of it. Women then risk unwanted easier it is for victims to seek help after the trauma.
issue 138 | January 2014 48|Arab World Focus
Iraqi refugees
According to UNHCR numbers, the number of Iraqi refugees in Lebanon that received assistance from the agency as of January 2013 is 8,130. The projected number for December 2013 is 7,670. This of course indicates that the actual number, which likely includes more people who are not registered, is higher. In Jordan, Iraqi refugees hold a special status and their number is consequently higher; 29,000 by January 2013. 10 years after the invasion of Iraq, the situation of these refugees is as precarious as ever. With the eruption of chaos across the region, the collateral damage of the war on Iraq has been overshadowed. The following table displays the fluctuations in the number of refugees in Lebanon over the years since the invasion as per UNHCR records.
UNHCR Iraqi refugees in Lebanon Table 1 Year 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Number of 1,476 1,148 797 20,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 7,630 8,491 Refugees *UNHCR Statistical Online Population Database
Though exact figures are not available, it is estimated not only of the violence they are exposed to, but also that the majority of Iraqis in Lebanon had been of being attacked by Sunni extremists in the country. smuggled in for an expensive fee. Most of those Many of the Shia Iraqis had settled in the Sayida registered with UNHCR are looking to be re-settled Zeinab neighborhood of Damascus. Thousands of in other countries, so their presence in Lebanon is Iraqi refugees have left the country. The number tied to their ability to get access into other countries. of Iraqi refugees in Syria estimated by UNHCR is Many of the families who did come in legally have 480,000 in January 2013. overstayed their visas and go to great lengths to avoid the ISF. Yet in the last few years the Lebanese In Jordan, though they are better integrated, Iraqi government has been granting amnesties to some refugees are still ostracized and are not legally able to Iraqi refugees; but this is done in exchange for a fee work. As in Lebanon, many of them rely on aid and and if a Lebanese sponsor is available. informal employment to survive. The influx of Syrian refugees to Jordan and Lebanon has exacerbated the The fact that the refugees are so weary of their legal situation not only for refugees from both countries, situation in the country, their relations with the local but also for the countries hosting them. Apart from population have become complicated. Those who living in wretched conditions those who are residing are employed in the underground economy speak of in the country illegally, both Syrian and Iraqi refugees abuse by their employers because they cannot resort cannot find access to decent health care or aid. In to officials. On the other hand, the lack of employment Lebanon, the public education system has swelled and stable income creates more economic and up with students. Refugee children are struggling emotional concerns. Iraqis living in the rural areas not only with the language barriers but also with the of the country had the advantage of finding work as bullying they face from their classmates being that agricultural laborers, but this is now threatened by the they are from a different environment. increased presence of Syrian refugees in these areas competing for agricultural labor. Iraqi refugees suffer from psycho-social trauma and are extremely vulnerable to lingering psychological Many of the Iraqi refugees who were residing in issues. Many Iraqis in Lebanon suffer from depression Syria have now gone back to Iraq because of the same and anxiety and display enduring trauma due to the reason they left it. Shiites and Christians who had fled events they witnessed in Iraq. the sectarian fighting in Iraq are now expressing fear
issue 138 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. prices |49
Real Estate Prices- Towards November 2013
Quasi passivity in transactions, stability in the Prices of some apartments sold in November 2013 Table 2 prices of properties below USD 750,000, downward Region Area m2 Price (USD) USD/m2 movement in the prices of real estate above USD Beirut 750,000 and ambiguous future prospects for the Mazraa- Chams Beirut 170 425,000 2,500 sector. This is the general picture of the real estate Hamra- Abou Taleb 120 384,000 3,200 market in November 2013, a picture that did not Saqiyat Janzeer 220 594,000 2,700 differ much from the trends that had prevailed in the Sodeco- Mohammad el-Hout 180 540,000 3,000 previous months. Tallet el-Khayyat 280 1,092,000 3,900 Ain el-Tineh 200 800,000 4,000 The turmoil unfolding in Syria and its effects on Ashrafieh 185 536,500 2,900 Lebanon continue to affect the Lebanese real estate Ashrafieh- Rizk 160 480,000 3,000 market and the return of the car bombings has Baabda discouraged investment in property, despite an Yarzi 400 1,100,000 2,750 increase in supply. Baabda 250 700,000 2,800 Tables 1 and 2 illustrate the prices of some estates Hadath 200 300,000 1,500 and apartments sold in November 2013. Ain Roummaneh 100 150,000 1,500 Hazmieh- Mar Taqla 270 499,500 1,850 Prices of some estates sold in November 2013 Table 1 Hazmieh- Mar Taqla 240 552,000 2,300 Region Area m2 Price (USD) USD/m2 Hazmieh- Maw Taqla 190 380,000 2,000 Mraijeh 150 157,000 1,050 Beirut Matn Ashrafieh (Monot) 610 7,930,000 13,000 Rabwi 250 275,000 1,100 Zqa el-Blat 750 6,750,000 9,000 Sin el-Fil 230 690,000 3,000 Baabda Bouchrieh 170 306,000 1,800 Arayya 1,000 800,000 800 Mansourieh 180 324,000 1,800 Hazmieh Jal el-Dib 210 336,000 1,600 (Mar Taqla) 950 2,707,500 2,850 Rabieh 400 880,000 2,200 Matn Zalqa 120 216,000 1,800 Broumana 1,400 448,000 320 Aley Mazraat Yashou’ 700 560,000 800 Bshamoun 240 384,000 1,600 Ain Saadeh 620 310,000 500 Aramoun 170 280,500 1,650 Qornat Chehwan 1,200 1,200,000 1,000 Aramoun 120 132,000 1,100 Aley Choueifat- Oumara 140 140,000 1,000 Aley 1,900 323,000 170 Doha Aramoun 150 165,000 1,100 Khaldeh 1,500 1,275,000 850 Doha el-Hoss 260 286,000 1,100 Kessrouan Kessrouan Zouq Mosbeh 170 229,500 1,350 Kfardebian 1,000 250,000 250 Ballouneh 150 180,000 1,200 Sahel Alma 1,250 2,125,000 1,700 Sahel Alma 160 296,000 1,850 Ghedras 800 240,000 300 Adoniss 170 246,500 1,450 Ashqout 2,650 1,060,000 400 Tabarja 150 240,000 1,600 Ajaltoun 1,100 495,000 450 Adma 165 330,000 2,000 Source: Compiled by Information International Source: Compiled by Information International
issue 138 | January 2014 50| Did you know that?
The Practice of Abortion Worldwide
The latest report on the practice of abortions Abortion rates happen to be higher in parts of across the world shows that the number of illegal the world where they are illegal. abortions is on the rise: 32 per 1000 women of childbearing age in Latin America have undergone abortion and 49% of all abortions taking place are unsafe, 29 per 1000 in Africa. That compares with 12 meaning they are not performed in accordance per 1000 in Western Europe. with professional medical standards or carried In Lebanon, abortion is forbidden unless it out by unqualified personnel. is done to save the life of the mother. If the 97% of abortions that take place in Africa are mother was the victim of rape and incest, or unsafe. if her pregnancy were to affect her mental and physical health, abortion is still prohibited. 95% of abortions in Latin America are unsafe. References 40% of abortions in Asia are unsafe. United Nations Population Division- Abortion Policies; A Global Review http://www.un.org/esa/population/publications/abortion/ the practice of unsafe abortions is the cause profiles.htm Shah, Iqbal H. , Gilda Sedgh, Singh Susheela , Ahman Elisabeth, et of 13% of maternal deaths. al. “Induced abortion: incidence and trends worldwide from 1995 to 2008.” Lancet. 379.9816 (2012): 625-632. Print.
Beirut International Airport Beirut International Airport Rafic Hariri International Airport Traffic- October 2013
Rafic Hariri International Airport traffic in October 2013 compared to September 5,346,437 is the number of Table 1 passengers- departing, arriving and 2013 and October 2012 in transit- who have used the Rafic September October October % of change % of change Hariri International Airport since the Traffic 2013 2013 2012 September/ October beginning of 2013 until the end of October 2013 2012/2013 October, compared to 5,052,059 Arriving airplanes 2,771 2,717 2,597 -1.9 +4.6 passengers during the same period last year, meaning an increase of Departing airplanes 2,764 2,714 2,597 -1.8 +4.5 5.8% or 294,378 passengers. Rafic Hariri International Airport Total no. of airplanes 5,535 5,431 5,194 -1.8 +4.6 handled 524,741 passenger Arriving passengers 227,850 262,327 223,551 +15.1 +17.3 movements in October 2013, down from 14,244 in September, i.e. a Departing passengers 309,572 261,452 246,639 -15.6 +6 decrease of 2.6%. Compared to the same period last year (October Transit passengers 1,563 962 2,856 -38.5 -66.3 2012), passenger traffic registered a Total no. of passengers 538,985 524,741 473,046 -2.6 +10.9 slight increase of 11% Table 1 illustrates the traffic at Rafic Imported goods (per ton) 4,885 5,839 4,692 +19.5 +24.5 Hariri International Airport in October 2013 compared to September 2013 Exported goods (per ton) 4,184 3,899 3,407 -6.8 +14.5 and October 2012. Total amount of goods 9,069 9,738 8,099 +7.3 +20.2 Source: Information International based on the Directorate General of Aviation Stats & Numbers |51
SNumberstats& Publications
USD 7.5 billion is the cost of Publications by Kutub (in Arabic): Publications by Information International (in Arabic): hosting the Syrian refugees in 1- Al-Wasita Ila Ma’rifat Ahwal Malta & Kashf Al- Lebanon between 2012 and Mukhabba’e ‘An Funun Europa. 1- Salaries and Remunerations in the Public Sector 2- Public Seaside Properties 2- The Memoirs of Juliette El-Mir Saadeh 2014 according to the estimates 3- Lebanon’s Parliamentary History 1920-2000 of the World Bank. 3- As-Saq ‘Ala As-Saq fi ma Huwa Al-Fariaq 4- Taxes and Fees 4- Rihlati Fi Al-Jazirah Al-Arabiyyah Al-Wusta, 5- Lebanon in Figures 1992-2002 6- Lebanon in Figures 2003-2004 Hamad, Sammar, Qacim, Hedjaz 1878-1882. USD 16 million is the profits 7- Lebanon in Figures 2005-2006 [Voyage Dans L’Arabie Centrale.] reaped by SOLIDERE for 2012. 8- Lebanon in Figures 2007-2008 5- Al-Shi’ir Ind Al-Badu (Bedouin Poetry) 9- Lebanon’s MPs and Lebanese Parliamentary However, the company’s General Elections 1960 - 2009 6- Rihlati Fi Bilad Al-Rafidayn wa Iraq Al’Arab 10- 2009 Parliamentary Elections by ballot box, Assembly did not distribute the [Utazasom Mesopatamiaban és Irak-Arabiaban] candidate and confession-North District profits to the shareholders. 7- Laqatat Mughayira: Al-Tasweer Al-Mahalli Al- 11- 2009 Parliamentary Elections by ballot box, Mubker Fi Filasteen. 1850-1948. candidate and confession-Beirut District 12- 2009 Parliamentary Elections by ballot box, USD 4.1 billion is the value of 8- Fi Khidmat Al-Watan. Mukhtarat Min Al-Watha’iq candidate and confession-Mount Lebanon District 108 tons of gold imported by Al-Khassa Lil ‘Amir Farid Shehab. 13- 2009 Parliamentary Elections by ballot box, Lebanon between 2009 and 9- Matbakh Baytna candidate and confession-Beqa’a District 14- 2009 Parliamentary Elections by ballot box, candidate 10- Antoun Saadeh Wa Al-Hizb Al-Souri Al-Qawmi 2012. The value of gold exports and confession-South and Nabatiyeh District Al-Ijtima’i Fi Awraq Al-Amir Farid Shehab Al- 15- Municipal Elections 2010 (114 tons) during the same period Mudir Al-‘Am Li Al-‘Amn Al-‘Am Al-Lubnani. amounted to USD 4.2 billion. 11- Mudhakarat Dhabet ‘Uthmani Fi Najd Publications by INMA (in Arabic): 12- Qasami ... Wasiyyati Muthakarat. 1,744 is the number of vehicles [Memoirs of Deeb Kirdiyeh.] 1- “I am Responsible, All of Us are Responsible” 2- “Our Environment is Our Home” stolen from the beginning of the 13- Trablous Al-Sham 3- “My Society is My Responsibility” year until September 2013. 482 14- Jeniyat Al-Nabi 4- “My Society is My Responsibility” Workbook 5- “I am a Student, I am a Citizen: Ways Towards of those have been recovered 15- Mokhber Al-Konsoliya State Building” compared to 810 recovered 16- Antoun Saadah 1932-1949 6- “I am a Student, I am a Citizen: Ways Towards State Building” Workbook 17- Antoun Saadah, A Biography, vehicles out of 1,984 in 2012, 7- “Lebanon Wars, why?” Volume 1. The Youth Years which implies an increase in the 8- Discrimination in Lebanon 18- The Face of the Prophet, number of unrecovered vehicles. Khalil Gibran and the Portraits of the Temple of Arts 19- May Ziadeh, Evolution of a free female thinker 42 is the average monthly 20- USA in the Middle East number of deaths resulting from 21- Alone Together car accidents in 2013, compared 22- Mission in Hijaz - Lion Roche to 44 in 2012 and 42 in 2011. 23- Aleppo Cuisine 24- From An-Nabk to Florida of the Lebanese state’s 21% 25- Institution of Aesthetic Discourse -Saad el-Kassab primary expenditure is assigned 26- Al A’mal Al She’rya Al-Kamila -Kamal Keir beik to cover the deficiency in the 27- Majhoulat Gibran To Subscribe: public electricity service. USD 28- Shweir and Its Hills, A phtographic record Al-Borj Building, 4th Floor, Martyrs Square 2 billion is spent to subsidize Beirut Central District Telephone: 961-1-983008/9 961-3-262376 electricity every year. Fax: 961-1-980630 [email protected] www.iimonthly.com www.information-international.com © Information International SAL All rights reserved License No. 180/2003
Information International and Kutub at the Beirut International Arab Book Fair
Information International and Kutub took part in the 57th Beirut International Arab Book Fair held at the Beirut International Exhibition and Leisure Center (BIEL) in downtown Beirut from the sixth to the nineteenth of December 2013. Around 80 publications issued by Kutub and Information International were in the exhibition and covered diverse topics, such as electoral and municipal elections, culture, history, literature, poetry, cooking and civic education. The fair, organized by the Arab Cultural Club and the Union of Publishers in Lebanon, was open from 10 am to 10 pm for 13 days and hosted several events, including seminars, lectures and book signing. Over 100 publishing houses from Lebanon and the Arab world took part in the fair.
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