PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS DRAFT LAW (2) COST OF LIVING INDEX

LEBANON’S TELECOMMUNICATIONS December 2011 | SECTOR 113 THE MONTHLY INTERVIEWS

iimonthly THE SPANISH AMBASSADOR TO www. .com Published by Information International sal LEBANON JUAN CARLOS GAFO issue number

THE STATE APPROPRIATES PRIVATE LAND AND SELLS ITS OWN

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 INDEX

4 THE STATE APPROPRIATES PRIVATE LAND AND SELLS ITS OWN

7 PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS DRAFT LAW (2)

11 COST OF LIVING INDEX

12 CHARLES HELOU TERMINAL

15 LEBANON’S TELECOMMUNICATIONS SECTOR

17 MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT BUILDING

18 MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY

20 CLERGY IMMUNITY Page 28 Page 7

21 BEIRUT MUNICIPALITY WORKERS UNION

23 SAINT GEORGE SCHOOL- ZALKA

25 THE DEMENTIAS BY DR. HANNA SAADAH

26 A PARABLE ABOUT HUMANITY BY DR. SAMAR ZEBIAN

27 WHERE COULD THE SECRET OF LIFE BE FOUND? Page 12 BY ANTOINE BOUTROS

28 THE MONTHLY INTERVIEWS: THE SPANISH AMBASSADOR TO LEBANON JUAN CARLOS 41 SYRIAN ACCUSATIONS AGAINST FUTURE GAFO MOVEMENT

30 ARMENIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH 42 OCTOBER 2011 TIMELINE

32 HOW DOES ONE BECOME AN ARMENIAN 46 SHURA COUNCIL ELECTIONS IN THE ORTHODOX CLERGYMAN? SULTANATE OF OMAN

33 SAFADI FOUNDATION 47 REAL ESTATE PRICES IN LEBANON - OCTOBER 2011 35 POPULAR CULTURE 48 FOOD PRICES - OCTOBER 2011 36 MYTH #52: SIMILARITY OR OPPOSITION 50 OLIVE OIL 37 MUST-READ BOOKS: SEXUAL ENCOUNTERS IN THE MIDDLE EAST 50 BEIRUT RAFIC HARIRI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT - OCTOBER 2011 38 MUST-READ CHILDREN’S BOOK: “ENJOYS PLAYING” 51 THE MONTHLY’S RECEPTION

39 LEBANON FAMILIES: HAYMOUR FAMILIES

40 DISCOVER LEBANON: JAJ 3 | EDITORIAL NOUHAD’S REMAINS OR LEBANON’S

Nouhad Nasser Eddine was unaware that a terrible person begging employment fate was awaiting her on the dawn of October 15, and hospitalization of his/her 2011 on the “so called” Byblos-Beirut highway “Zai’m”. where she fell victim to a hit and run accident. A fast-driving car ran into her, claiming her life and Her remains put a spotlight on the monopoly of oil tossing her dead body over the road to be ran over and the violation of both, public and private property. again by other drivers who “mistakenly” confused Her remains put a spotlight on the excessive greed, her scattered limbs with “inhuman remains” as on the immigration of our children, on our racism reported by the National News Agency. and narrow-mindedness and despicable behavior. Her remains unraveled the story of how we were “Jounieh’s police department was credited for stripped of our schools, hospitals, beaches, mountains establishing the identity of the deceased woman and trees, how we were deprived of our friends and (only) after her daughter had recognized her”, the families, and how we ended up with no memory or Agency added. legacy, turning to our “Zo’ama” for refuge or seeking visas to escape our misery. The remains of Nouhad said it all! for “inhuman remains”, it is a newly-coined term to justify the sickening game of running over cats and Right before her death she cried out asking: “where dogs, which the Lebanese master very well. are the pedestrian bridges? Where are the streetlights? Plagued by poor maintenance and risky driving behavior, our roadways are sadly unsafe for both, rammed into me and those who ran over my body drivers and pedestrians. And albeit “we”, the upper afterwards?” and bodyguards can keep us safe, we know full well “As great as it is to enjoy bank secrecy and satellite how vulnerable we all are. channels... As great as it is to pride ourselves on having a Casino, an international airport and a cedar Ironically, our country is no different than our tree of over 1000 years old, it would be far greater roads: dark like our streetlights, spiritless like our if we could come up with a fair wage hike, provide rugged roads, and perilous like our political system. a health care coverage and impose taxes on capital gains. The remains of Nouhad said it all! These are not my remains but rather the remains of They told the story of the “Shia’a” when they were my country.” pit against the “Palestinians”, the “Maronites” against the “Muslims”, and the “Sunni” against the Such were the words of Nouhad Nasser Eddine, 49, “Shia’a”. They bemoaned our pain, we, the rich in Byblos, the “city of the alphabet.” and the poor hailing from the North, the South, the Beqa’a and Mount Lebanon. They spoke for every

issue 113 | December 2011 4 | LEADER THE STATE APPROPRIATES PRIVATE LAND AND SELLS ITS OWN THE STATE APPROPRIATES PRIVATE LAND AND SELLS ITS OWN rticle 15 of the Lebanese constitution stipulated that “rights of ownership are under the protection of law. No one’s property may be expropriated except for reasons of public utility, in cases established by the law Aand in return of prior and fair compensation.” In conformity with this constitutional text, the government issues real estate appropriation decrees to make and expand roads or to set up other public facilities on private property to serve public interest. Citizens whose properties were appropriated are entitled to an adequate compensation determined by the competent judicial committees. However, many appropriation decrees have been issued since decades with outstanding appropriation projects and the property owners unpaid. Appropriation law: The appropriation law number 58 dated 29-5-1991 and which practically impedes property recovery since its amendments stipulated the following: most owners cannot afford the new price. The appropriation shall be for reasons of public utility If the roads or public squares to be established are and in return of fair compensation. less than one quarter of the property’s area, they shall The appropriation decree shall determine the time be annexed to public property with no compensations limit for the appropriation process. This limit shall except for plants and buildings. not exceed a maximum duration of 8 years from the A special mechanism may be adopted for national "# defense appropriations when deemed necessary. $ The then effective cadastral decrees (1991) whose appropriation decree and the appropriation shall be date of issuance does not exceed 20 years shall remain registered in the cadastre. in force provided that their effectiveness is within a Once the government decides to initiate an 25 year limit. Therefore, the time limit for the execution of appropriation committee (there are primary and appropriation projects is 10 years that may stretch to appellate committees headed by judges and 25 years. However, the facts show that many decrees consisting of engineers and real estate experts in were issued long before that but did not translate to every district.) The committee calls the government concrete projects and property owners remain unpaid and the owners for a public hearing and issues its paid. The pending appropriations decrees are detailed decision with regards to the appraisal of the property. in table 1 as follows: This decision may be appealed before the appellate committee within 30 days of the date of receiving Pending appropriation decrees (1929- Table 1 the decision. The committees shall also determine 1965) the real estate improvement values in preparation for Real estate Appropriation utility Appropriation date further taxation imposed by the law in alignment with Runway expansion the improvement. Hawsh Hala project in Riyaq 1929 Upon receiving the primary committee’s decision, the airport in Beqa’a government should deposit the determined amount of Muhammara-Bebnin- Qebbe-Shomra- notify him thereof and issue a decision of property Muqaiteh-Kfarmelkeh- Tall Abass sharqi-Tall Pipe installation for seizure. Should the compensation not be deposited Abass Gharbi-Saadin- 1932 a Iraqi oil company within six months, the property owner shall have the Darin-Jourett Srar- right to claim an interest, or to request a new appraisal Shir Hmayrin and of his property in case of a 2 year delay in payment. many others in Akkar If the planned projects were not initiated within and Al Menyi ten years from the issuance of the seizure decision, Archaeological Jbeil 1933 the property owner shall have the right to recover exploration In favor of Qadisha his property. The appropriation committee shall Kusba 1934 determine the value of the property in question power plant according to current market after deducting 25% Ain Saadeh Road building 1965 issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. THE STATE APPROPRIATES PRIVATE LAND AND SELLS ITS OWN LEADER | 5

Pending appropriation decrees (1929- State-owned properties sold in the past few 1965) Table 1 years (2005-2010) Table 2 Real estate Appropriation utility Appropriation date Region/Caza Property Square meter Total price Al-Khalidiyi- Zgharta Dam establishment 1965 area (M²) price (LBP) (million LBP) Installation of high Deek al-Mehdi- 20 675.000 13.5 Zgharta voltage cables 1965 Metn Hnayder-Akkar Road building 1965 Fatqa- 42 565.000 23.730 Al Qulayaat- Akkar Airport expansion 1965 Kessrouan Jbaa- Nabatieh Public market 1965 118.000 (prurchased by Tebnin- Bint 975 115 Boqsot- Saida Public prison 1965 Jbeil the Higher Shiite establishment Council Al Khiam Slaughterhouse 1965 Jdaydeh- Metn 86 1.8 million 154.8 Kfaryassine- 69 975.000 67.275 Sale of public property Kessrouan Despite the new legislations witnessed in real estate Ardat- Zgharta 144 200.000 30.80 market, the decision number 275, dated 25-5-1926 and Shikhan- Jbeil 92 45.000 4.140 issued by the French High Commissioner of Syria, Greater Laylaki- Baabda 120 900.000 108 Lebanon, State of Alawites and the Druze Mountain, Adma & Dafni- Henry De Jouvenel, still regulates the management and Kessrouan 1.093 750.000 819.750 selling of the state immovable property. The decision Ain Kssour- Aley 54 180.000 9.720 determined the state-owned property which includes: Bqosta- Saida 272 600.000 163.2 Public land  Hadath- Baabda 67 210.000 140.7 Abandoned land Klayaat- Vacant and ownerless property Kessrouan 23 105.000 2.415  Listed Treasury-owned property Kraynoun- Property booked for the Treasury Batroun 150 30.000 4.5 Listed state-owned property Msaytbeh- Beirut 220 7.8 million 1.716  Acquired property purchased by the state Ftahat- Batroun 621 15.000 9.315 Vacant, heirless and neglected estates Kousba- Koura 250 37.500 9.375 Unplanted lands and forests and mountains Ghazir- Kessrouan 31 280.000 8.680 Articles 77 and 80 of the said decision regulated the process Harishi- Koura 63 225.000 14.175 of selling state-owned property. Article 77 imposed that the Shayli- Kessrouan 4.5 375.000 1.688 property be sold at public auction whereby the Minister of Kfarmashoun- Jbeil 135 50.000 6.750 Finance forms a committee of experts to appraise the offered Burj Hammoud- 42 600.000 25.2 property and specify the minimum bid for it. Property sale Metn could also be achieved, by mutual agreement, in cases where Mansourieh- Metn 53 76.000 3.975 the property value does not exceed a capital of SYP 2,000 or Wastani- Saida 646 1.650 million 1.659 the auction is to no avail or the president of the state allows 1 million Tahwitit Ghadir- (purchased by such kind of transactions. Therefore, auctions weren’t held 9.584 9.584 and most of sale transactions were carried out by mutual Baabda Middle East agreement. airlines) 100.000 Gharfin- Jbeil 548 (purchased by 54.8 The following table 2 illustrates the sale price of some properties Maytag Co.) which came lower than the common market price in those Adma & Dafni- areas. So why is that decision still in force and why can it not Kessrouan 129 600.000 77.4 be amended so that the sale of state property be allowed in rare Jourat al-Balout- 100 300.000 30 cases only? It is of the utmost importance that the state which Metn appropriates private property for reasons of public utility, look Kernayel- Baabda 66 115.000 7.590 safter its own property as well. Ain Alaq- Metn 82 150.000 12.3 Mar Jerjes- Zahle 99 750.000 74.250 Hadath-Babda 50 1.8 million 90

issue 113 | December 2011 6 | LEADER THE STATE APPROPRIATES PRIVATE LAND AND SELLS ITS OWN

State-owned properties sold in the past few State-owned properties sold in the past few years (2005-2010) Table 2 years (2005-2010) Table 2 Region/Caza Property Square meter Total price Region/Caza Property Square meter Total price area (M²) price (LBP) (Million LBP) area (M²) price (LBP) (Million LBP) Saghbin- Western 175 100.000 175 Hadath- Baabda 38 1.125 million 42.750 Beqa’a Laylaki- Baabda 390 551.000 215.1 Ashqout- Kessrouan 65 150.000 9.750 Hraysheh- Koura 50 80.000 4 Sarba- Kessrouan 60 450.000 27 Assia- Batroun 33 40.000 1.320 Hawsh al-Zaraani- Zahle 55 850.000 46.250 Nsariyyeh- Saida 413 30.000 12.390 Bqenaya- Metn 800 200.000 160 Bsatin- Tripoli 234 530.000 124.020 Hadath- Baabda 17 300.000 5.1 Deir Koubil- Aley 85 100.000 8.5 Wadi al Arayesh- Nahr Ibrahim- Jbeil 128 750.000 96 Zahle 42 500.000 21 Burj al-Shimali- 2.383 38.000 90.554 Burj al Barajni- Sour Baabda 113 550.000 62.150 15.000 Tripoli- Tripoli 5.089 (purchased by 76.335 Bawshriyyi- Metn 60 810.000 48.6 the Zakat Fund) Kousba- Koura 9 150.000 1.350 Mar Jerjes- Zahle 9 450.000 4.50 Bdabhoun- Koura 76 22.000 1.748 Mar Jerjes- Zahle 61 450.000 27.450 Tal el-Akhdar- Zahle 452 9000 4.077 Mar Jerjes- Zahle 64 450.000 28.8 Sheikh Taba- Akkar 2.210 6000 12.260 Mar Jerjes- Zahle 142 450.000 63.9 15.750 Bsous- Aley 29 150.000 4.350 Bousit- Zgharta 1.280 (purchased by 20.160 Ghassaniyeh- former MP Jean Saida 72 100.000 7.2 Obeid) Bkheshtay- Aley 160 150.000 24 Kornet el-Hamra- Metn 75 130.000 9.750 Nsariyyeh- Saida 266 45000 11.970 12.750 Maad- Jbeil 112 45000 5.040 (purchased by Baabda- Baabda 487 1.6 million 779.2 Hzarta- Zahle 3.921 Rim Co. for 49.993 Natural and Daroun- Kessrouan 648 250.000 162 Mineral Water) 1.5 million Furn al-Chebbak- (purchased by Fanar- Metn 415 200.000 83 Baabda 268 the Syndicate of 402 Hraysheh- Koura 21 30.000 630 Doctors) Wata Slem- 71 400.000 28.4 Ehden- Zgharta 214 60.000 12.840 Kessrouan Burj al Barajni- Deek al-Mehdi- 192 250.000 48 Baabda 37 700.000 25.9 Metn Kfarkdah- Jbeil 185 45.000 8.325 Hadath- Baabda 275 325.000 89.375 Bqosta- Saida 53 250.000 13.250 Ain Zhalta- Chouf 355 80.000 28.4 Amyoun- Koura 22 100.000 2.2 Mina- Tripoli 200 900.000 180 Halta- Batroun 403 27.000 10.881 Adma & Dafni- 121 600.000 72.6 Kessrouan Antelias- Metn 55 850.000 46.750 Burj Hammoud- Baabda- Baabda 65 350.000 22.750 Metn 52 500.000 26 Mansouriyeh- Beit Shlala- Metn 124 500.000 62 Batroun 233 25.000 5.825 Baabda- Baabda 210 350.000 73.5 Msayleh- Saida 882 55.000 48.510 Mhayleb- Sour 880 40.000 35.2 Bqosta- Saida 99 175.000 17.325 Laylaki- Baabda 223 450.000 100.350 Wastani- Saida 131 1.425 million 186.675 Ain Delbe- Jbeil 65 60.000 3.9 Berhalyoun- Besharri 16 15.000 LBP 240.000 Bqosta- Saida 92 175.000 16.1 Ashqout- Zouk Mikael- 100 600.000 60 Kessrouan 65 150.000 9.750 Kessrouan Zouk Mikael- Source: Official Gazette Kessrouan 60 750.000 45

issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS DRAFT LAW (2) PUBLIC SECTOR | 7 PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS DRAFT LAW PART 2: PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2013 n its past issue (112 of November 2011), The Monthly covered the electoral draft law suggested by Interior Minister Marwan Charbel in terms of proportional voting, women’s quota, pre-printed ballots, ceiling for electoral Iexpenditures and options on electoral districts. This article will be dedicated to specify the confessional distribution in each of the 6 districts. Option 1: 14 electoral districts This option suggests a Muslim majority of 80 deputies 14 electoral districts: distribution of voters by in 8 districts and a Christian majority of 48 deputies confession Table 1 in the remaining 5 districts. Table 1 illustrates the Electoral Number confessional distribution of voters in each of the 14 district of voters % Voters by confession districts. 86 Shia’a 5.1 Sunni Sour- Bint Jbeil 284,974 4.8 Maronite 14 electoral districts: distribution of voters by Table 1 2.7 Greek Catholic confession 1.4 Christian minorities Electoral Number %Voters by confession 76 Shia’a district of voters 10 Sunni 83 Sunni Nabatieh- 4.8 Druze Tripoli- 6 Greek Orthodox Marjeyoun- 266,468 3.5 Maronite Minnieh- 298,184 6 Maronite and Christian Hasbayya 3.2 Greek Orthodox Dinnieh variety 0.5 Greek Catholic 5 Alawi 2 Other Christians 68 Maronite 41.2 Shia’a Zgharta- 7.7 Sunni 24 Sunni Bsharri- Koura- 234,916 22.5 Greek Orthodox 22.5 Maronite Batroun 0.8 Greek Catholic Saida- Jezzine- 204,910 11 Greek Catholic 1 Shia’a Zahrani 0.5 Greek Orthodox 65 Sunni 0.8 Other Christians and 17 Greek Orthodox Druze Akkar 230,646 11 Maronite 41.7 Maronite 6 Alawi 11.7 Greek Orthodox 1 Other Christians 8.5 Druze 72 Shia’a 7.8 Greek Catholic Baalbeck- 13.4 Sunni Baabda- Metn 324,104 9 Armenian Orthodox Hermel 264,486 8.3 Maronite 3.3 Christian minorities 6.3 Greek Catholic 12.2 Shia’a 45 Sunni 3.7 Sunni 14 Shia’a 2.1 Armenian Catholic 14 Druze 79 Maronite Rashayya- 125,076 9 Greek Catholic 3.5 Greek Orthodox West Beqa’a 8.5 Greek Orthodox 3 Greek Catholic 8 Maronite Jbeil- Kesrwan 165,858 1.7 Armenian Catholic 1.5 Minorities 2.3 variety 21 Greek Catholic 9 Shia’a 17 Maronite 1.5 Sunni 10 Greek Orthodox 38 Druze 24 Sunni 28.5 Maronite Zahle 159,341 13 Shia’a Chouf- Aley 301,008 6.5 Greek Orthodox 6 Armenian Orthodox 2.7 Shia’a 3 Syriac Orthodox 18.5 Sunni 1 Evangelical 5.8 Catholic 5 Christian minorities

issue 113 | December 2011 8 | PUBLIC SECTOR PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS DRAFT LAW (2)

14 electoral districts: distribution of voters by 14 electoral districts: distribution of voters confession Table 1 by confession Table 2 Electoral Number Electoral Number of district of voters % Voters by confession district voters % Voters by confession 21.1 Armenian Orthodox 45 Maronite 10 Maronite 15 Greek Orthodox Beirut 1: 13.7 Greek Orthodox 10 Greek Catholic Achrafieh- 7.3 Greek Catholic 17 Armenian Orthodox Rmeil- 195,428 4.2 Armenian Catholic 171,262 4 Armenian Catholic Mdawwar- Metn 1.7 Evangelical 2.5 Shia’a Marfa’a- Saifi- 3.7 Other Christians 8.3 Minorities Bashoura 1.6 Sunni 18.7 Sunni 1.2 Druze 15 Shia’a 32 Maronite 65 Sunni Beirut 2: Ras 10.5 Orthodox 14 Shia’a Beirut- Dar Baabda- 4.5 Catholic 1.5 Druze 270,164 31 Druze Mrayse- Mina’a Aley 255,407 7 Greek Orthodox 14 Shia’a Hosn- Zqaq 1.2 Evangelical 4 Sunni Blat- Mazra’a- 9.5 Christian Minorities 4 Other Christians Msaytbeh 1.8 Israeli 27.2 Sunni 27 Shia’a 5.6 Druze 0.8 Alawi 0.1 Israeli 21.5 Maronite Total (14) 3,310,806 7.5 Greek Orthodox 5 Greek Catholic 2.6 Armenian Orthodox 0.5 Armenian Catholic 0.2 Syriac Orthodox 0.2 Evangelical 1.8 Christian minorities

Option 2: 14 electoral districts This option suggests a Muslim majority of 82 deputies in 9 districts and a Christian majority of 46 deputies in 5 districts. Table 2 displays the distributors of voters by confession.

14 electoral districts: distribution of voters by confession Table 2 Electoral Number of district voters %Voters by confession 15.7 Greek Catholic 9.3 Greek Orthodox 3.7 Armenian Orthodox Zahle- 6.1 Druze Rashayya- 284,417 13 Maronite West Beqa’a 33 Sunni 13.5 Shia’a 5.7 Christian minorities 31 Druze 28 Sunni 2.6 Shia’a Chouf 183,086 30 Maronite 7 Greek Catholic 1.4 Greek Orthodox

issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS DRAFT LAW (2) PUBLIC SECTOR | 9

Option 3: 14 electoral districts 13 electoral districts: distribution of voters by Table 4 The confessional distribution in the districts remains confession Number of as set in option 1. Grouping Minnieh and Dinnieh with Electoral district % Voters by confession Akkar and leaving Tripoli to form a single district does voters not affect the Sunni majority in these two districts. 45 Maronite 15 Greek Orthodox 10 Greek Catholic 14 electoral districts: distribution of voters by confession Table 3 71 Armenian Orthodox Metn 171,262 4 Armenian Catholic Number of Electoral district %Voters by confession 2.5 Shia’a voters 3.7 Other Christians 80 Sunni 1.6 Sunni 7 Alawi 1.2 Druze 7 Greek Orthodox Tripoli 198,540 60 Shia’a 3 Maronite 13.1 Maronite Saida- Zahrani- 1.5 Armenian Orthodox 364,182 8.2 Greek Catholic Jezzine- Sour 1.5 Other Christians 17 Sunni 70 Sunni 1.7 Christian variety Akkar- Minnieh- 2.5 Alawi 80 Shia’a 330,290 7.1 Sunni Dinnieh 16.5 Greek Orthodox Nabatieh- 5.3 Maronite 11 Maronite Marjeyoun- 392,170 3.2 Druze Hasbayya- Bint 2.1 Greek Orthodox Jbeil Option 4: 13 electoral districts 0.5 Greek Catholic 7 electoral districts remain as set in option 1 while the 1.8 Christian variety remaining 6 districts change. This option will yield a Muslim majority of 82 deputies in 8 districts and a Option 5: 12 electoral districts Christian majority of 46 deputies in 5 districts. The 12 electoral districts are distributed with a Muslim majority of 87 deputies in 8 districts and a Christian 13 electoral districts: distribution of voters by majority of 41 deputies in 4 districts. confession Table 4 Number of Option 6: 10 electoral districts Electoral district % Voters by confession voters This option suggests 7 districts with a Muslim majority 15.7 Greek Catholic of 93 deputies and 3 districts with a Christian majority of 9.3 Greek Orthodox 35 deputies as shown in Table 5. 3.7 Armenian Orthodox Zahle- Rashayya- 284,417 6.1 Druze West Beqa’a 10 electoral districts: distribution of voters by 13 Maronite confession Table 5 13.5 Shia’a Number of Electoral district % Voters by confession 5.7 Christian minorities voters 32 Maronite 73 Sunni 10.5 Orthodox 13 Greek Orthodox Tripoli- Minnieh- 4.8 Alawi 4.5 Catholic 528,830 Baabda- Aley 270,164 31 Druze Dinnieh- Akkar 7.8 Maronite 14 Shia’a 1.4 Armenian and 4 Sunni Christian minorities 4 Other Christians 15.7 Greek Catholic 31 Druze 9.3 Greek Orthodox 3.7 Armenian Orthodox 28 Sunni Zahle- Rashayya- 6.1 Druze 2.6 Shia’a 284,417 Chouf 183,086 West Beqa’a 13 Maronite 30 Maronite 33 Sunni 7 Greek Catholic 13.5 Shia’a 1.4 Greek Orthodox 5.7 Christian minorities

issue 113 | December 2011 10 | PUBLIC SECTOR PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS DRAFT LAW

10 electoral districts: distribution of voters by confession Table 5 Number of Electoral district %Voters by confession voters 31 Druze 32 Maronite 7 Greek Orthodox Baabda- Aley- 453,850 5 Greek Catholic Chouf 14 Sunni 10 Shia’a 1 Christian variety 62 Maronite 9.3 Greek Orthodox 6.6 Greek Catholic Jbeil- Kessrouan- 9.5 Armenian Orthodox 337,120 Metn 5.7 Shia’a 1.5 Sunni 2 Armenian Catholic 3.4 Others 60 Shia’a 13.1 Maronite Saida- Zahrani- 364,182 8.2 Greek Catholic Jezzine- Sour 17 Sunni 1.7 Christian variety 80 Shia’a 7.1 Sunni Nabatieh- 5.3 Maronite Marjeyoun- 392,170 3.2 Druze Hasbayya- Bint 2.1 Greek Orthodox Jbeil 0.5 Greek Catholic 1.8 Other Christians

N.B: districts not listed in the tables remain as set in table 1.

District distribution by confession and parliamentary seats in the 6 options suggested by Interior Minister Table 6 Marwan Charbel 1 2 3 4 5 6 Options Seat/District Seat/District Seat/District Seat/District Seat/District Seat/District Sunni majority districts 34/4 41/4 34/4 41/4 41/4 41/3 Shia’a majority districts 33/4 33/4 33/4 33/3 33/3 33/3 Maronite majority districts 32/3 37/4 32/3 37/4 32/3 26/2 Catholic and Christian majority districts 7/1 7/1 Druze/Muslim majority districts 13/1 8/1 8/1 8/1 13/1 19/1 Armenian majority districts 9/1 9/1 9/1 9/1 9/1 9/1 Total 128/14 128/14 128/14 128/13 128/12 128/10

issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. COST OF LIVING INDEX PUBLIC SECTOR | 11 COST OF LIVING INDEX 35% OR 100%

he Cost of Living Committee, headed by Labor Minister Dr. Charbel Nahhas, has held several meetings to increase the minimum wage and specify the appropriate hike in alignment with the soaring prices. The meetings discussed Tseveral studies and documents offered by representatives of the Economic Committees, the General Labor Confederation and the price index providers. Price Index Alternatives to ease the pressures placed on According to the Central Administration of Statistics salaries (CAS), the price index increases have reached 35% Various recommendations were suggested during the since 1998 till August 2011. However, the Consultation price index committee meetings to ease the pressures and Research Institute estimated the increase at 53%. placed on the salaries of both, low-income and middle- This big discrepancy is due to different weighting rates income families. The suggestions were the following: where the CAS gave food consumption 20% in the Reduce taxation burdens on the salaries of low and 2004 family budget study, while the Institute put it at middle-income families. 32%. Impose taxes on capital gains (real-estate + corporate gains) The Consultation and Research Institute reported that Provide a comprehensive health care coverage to all the price index increase has soared to 100% since Lebanese residents. This coverage shall be funded &''*+;&&$ from the taxes charged on real-estate gains rather stirred up a dispute between a group claiming a 100% than the NSSF maternity and sickness fund, thus wage hike and another calling for a 16% hike (16% is providing a further 9-10 percent to the salaries (9% \+;;=+;&& is the percentage of the subscription fees paid to the CAS.) NSSF by both, employers and employees) Reconsider the work permits granted to foreign workers Total icome decreases thus offering the Lebanese better employment chances. Despite the successive increases that raised the Outline a 5-year investment plan to help provide minimum wage from LBP 235,000 in 1973 up to LBP electricity, water and public transportation services 500,000 until before the approval of the current hike, that would decrease production costs and improve the average personal income has decreased by 60% living conditions. since 1973, upholding the argument that the wage Replace end-of-service fund with a monthly hike does not solve the purchasing power decline, retirement salary as of 2013 at the latest. and other solutions must be thought out to boost the \ These recommendations are yet to be adopted.

LBP

issue 113 | December 2011 12 | PUBLIC SECTOR CHARLES HELOU TERMINAL CHARLES HELOU TERMINAL: A WITNESS TO STATE COLLAPSE ince the fifties, right until the civil strife in 1975, Riad el-Solh Square, Martyrs’ Square, Debbas Square, and Rayfouli Square have served as stations for buses and cars heading from several regions towards Beirut and circulating Sthroughout the city which became plagued with terrible traffic congestion. Therefore, a plan was outlined in 1969 to establish Charles Helou Terminal (named after the Lebanese president between 1964 and 1970) nearby Beirut city centre and along the harbor. The terminal was subject to partial completion prior to the Lebanese civil strife in 1975 but was not fully finalized and remained a vacant structure attesting to pre-war achievements and war ruins.

Contracts was signed with Beirut departure On 6-7-1995, the Cabinet issued the decree No. 9 station and granted the station a zone for public taxis entrusting the Department of Railways and Public leaving Lebanon. The zone houses 57 taxi cars as well as Transport with running all transport stations (including rest areas for passengers, information booths and ticket Charles Helou Terminal) and agreed by virtue of decree No. 8 to authorize the municipality of Beirut, being The annual investment cost was divided into two parts: the owner of the terminal, to sign a 10-year consensual LBP 99 million that increase in alignment with the agreement allowing the Department of Railways pay hikes determined by the decrees providing cost- and Public Transport to manage the station upon its of- living raises for workers in private sectors. completion (completion costs reached USD 3 million.) USD 150 thousand that increase by 1.5% as of the This agreement expired on July 17, 2007. third contractual year

Upon deduction of the terminal operating costs, the The second contract was signed with the Pullman revenues generated were distributed as follows: departure station and granted the station the zone 70% for the repayment of the USD 3 million loan equipped for destinations outside Lebanon. The zone and the ensuing interests contains three stands and eleven precautionary stands 15% for the Municipality of Beirut 15% for the Department of Railways and Public areas for passengers. Transport The annual investment cost was divided into two parts: LBP 45 million that increase in alignment with the In an attempt to enhance the role of the terminal, the pay hikes determined by the decrees providing cost- cabinet issued on 11-6-1997 decree No. 15, giving all of- living raises for workers in private sectors public taxis, buses and mini buses in this station the USD 68,200 thousand that increase by 1.5% as of exclusivity of operating transport lines from Beirut and the third contractual year Mount Lebanon to overseas destinations and from Beirut to the North of Lebanon. Rough Start The violation of the ministerial decree that gave Charles Consequently, the Department of Railways and Public Helou Station the exclusiveness of providing transport Transport signed two contracts to invest the station. These services to the North and overseas destinations and the contracts lasted for 10 years and expired on June 18, 2007. incessant activity of Beirut and Mount Lebanon transport and there was no contracting with any other companies to put the station’s stands in action. Consequently, the Beirut Departure Station company refrained from paying its dues as of the end of March 1999 and the Beirut Pullman Station followed in its footsteps as of early 2005. The two companies attributed their payment default to the fact that the Department of Railways and Public Transport had breached the contract and rented out stands to other companies. In its turn the Department of Railways and @$ Charles Helou Terminal to obtain the due payments which resulted in slack services Phhoto byy Mohhammed Masa hlabb K issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. CHARLES HELOU TERMINAL PUBLIC SECTOR | 13 Current condition one Pullman departs every two hours. However, the After the expiry of contracts in 2007, the Municipality Q=;X of Beirut issued the decree No. 476 dated 12-7-2007 to reach 90 passengers due to the current events in Syria. which did not allow a contract renewal and requested the Saad Transport Company also includes Tripoli Express Department of Railways and Public Transport to hand which operates 15 Pullmans providing rides to Tripoli over the station. The Municipality then started arranging every half an hour. Around 350 passengers travel daily investment contracts of a three-month renewable duration and each pays LBP 3,500 for the ticket. with the companies wishing to use the station until holding a tendering process that would put the station in Connex Travel Company: action. The Ministry of Public Works and Transportation $[\] objected to that and asserted that the transportation affairs 8 Pullmans and 5 buses transporting passengers to and from fall within its jurisdiction. Subsequently, there must be a Tripoli every half an hour and charges 5,000 per passenger. cooperation between the two parties so that the Ministry The company runs one stand accommodating 2 Pullmans of Public Works and Transportation undertakes the and one duct and pays LBP 6 million for rent every season. surveillance and supervision of the services provided by $^_; the terminal and its compliance with all the obligations and the municipality takes charge of renting bus stands Al Jamil International Travel Company: and collecting due debts as stipulated by the cabinet The company is in charge of one stand that decision No. 164 on 27-10-2007. accommodates 4 buses and one duct and it provides transport services to Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Since then, the tender hasn’t been launched and the United Arab Emirates. Mini buses carry passengers municipality kept hold of the station in presence of from Beirut to Halab for USD 20 dollar per passenger slacking services and poor management. The companies then passengers would be transported from Halab to the in charge of the facility hold the municipality responsible other countries. For instance, a passenger would pay while the municipality argues that this is a transitional USD 47 for a ride to Saudi Arabia, USD 57 for Emirates phase (ongoing since 5 years) and the companies are `{|+;#$ failing to comply with their license obligations. Under buses is estimated at 70 passengers daily although it these aggravating circumstances, the station remains has decreased to around 20 passengers now due to the mired in chaos and falls prey to debris. current events in Syria. The company operates rides from Beirut to Syria every one hour and pays LBP 6 The companies in current charge of the facility billion every season. Saad Travel Company This is the only company that has the right to operate Haddad and Associates for Travel travel lines from Lebanon to overseas destinations. The The company operates 16 Pullmans daily at around one company includes around 300 registered cars and has the ride every hour and it covers several Syrian districts right to one stand accommodating 8 cars and one duct among which: and another accommodating 2 pullmans and one duct. Damascus – Homs- Halab and Hammah for USD 10 The company pays LBP 6 million every season for the per passenger Pullman stand and LBP 82 million for the cars stand. Al-Qameshli – Al-Hasakah- and Al-Raqqa for USD This travel company covers: 20 per passenger Rides to Damascus, Homs, Hamah and al- Ladhiquiah for LBP 25,000 per passenger The daily passengers are estimated by 120 and the Rides to Halab for LBP 30,000 per passenger company runs one stand accommodating 2 buses and Rides to Tartous for 20,000 per passenger one duct and pays LBP 6 million for seasonal rent. Rides to Jordan for 60,000 per passenger Zaytouni Tours The company has around 15 Pullmans and its Pullman The company operates 9 transport lines from Beirut rides cover: to Damascus, headquarters of the company, from Rides to Damascus for 15,000 per passenger which passengers head for other destinations in Arab Rides to Halab for 21,000 per passenger countries and Europe. The company charges SP 600 Rides to al-Ladhiquiah, Hamah and Tartous for ~`{|&+ 20,000 per passenger 200 passengers per day, a number that dropped to 70 The passengers transported daily are around 450 and due to the current events in Syria. The company runs

issue 113 | December 2011 14 | PUBLIC SECTOR CHARLES HELOU TERMINAL one stand accommodating two Pullmans and one duct The company operates rides from Beirut to Tripoli and vice and pays LBP 6 million for seasonal rent. versa and employs around 20 mini buses charging LBP 2,500-3,500 per passenger. One stand accommodating 3 Dajla Tours Likewise other companies, Dajla Tours manages one stand a LBP 6 million seasonal rent and transports around 200 accommodating two Pullmans and one duct and pays a passengers everyday for the buses may carry passengers LBP 6 million seasonal rent. It operates 10 Pullmans for on the road between Beirut and Tripoli. Damascus and Halab and charges USD 12 per passenger. @ By virtue of decision No.161 issued on 27-10-2007, the is estimated at around 60 passengers every day. cabinet requested to “adopt the mechanisms established by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport with regard Beirut Pullman Station (s.a.l) to managing and running Charles Helou Terminal so that € { $  the station becomes an example for other transport hubs in exclusive right to run Charles Helou travel lines. It has Lebanon to meet advanced and international standards.” 15 Pullmans departing every one hour and covering: Damascus-Homs and Hamah for USD 10 per Unfortunately, the terminal management has failed over passenger the past 15 years to set a good example and passersbys Halab, Al-Raqqah and Deir al-Zour for USD 20 per may easily notice the disastrous chaos which attests to passenger the state’s incapability of running such small facilities. 200 passengers travel via this company daily. The terminal Al-Hilal for Travel and Tourism The company manages rides from Beirut to: around 400 bus stands. Damascus, Homs, Hamah and Al-Qameshli for SP 600 (USD 12) per passenger The Ground Floor contains 3 zones: Halab, Al-Raqqa, and Al-Hasakah for SP 1,000 Zones A and B are assigned for Pullmans and mini (USD 20) per passenger buses providing overseas rides and are managed by Jordan for SP 1,000 (USD 20) per passenger the following 7 companies: Beirut Pullman Station (s.a.l) Al-Qotb Transport Company Zaytouni Tours The company runs 18 Pullmans and is in charge of one Al-Hilal for Travel and Tourism stand accommodating two Pullmans and one duct. It also Haddad and Associates for Travel pays LBP 6 million for seasonal rent. Al Jamil International Travel Company Saad Transport Company Dajla Tours

Zone C is dedicated to all small cars (Syrian, Jordanian and Lebanese) and contains the stands responsible for transport lines to Tripoli. This zone is managed by three companies: Tripoli Express Connex Travel Company Al-Qotb Transport Company

facility.

service.

Charlees Heelou TeT rmminal Photo by Mohhamed Masa hlabb issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. LEBANON’S TELECOMMUNICATIONS SECTOR PUBLIC SECTOR | 15 LEBANON’S TELECOMMUNICATIONS SECTOR: EXPENSIVE SERVICE

ebanon’s telecommunications sector is still a state-owned monopoly, with two mobile carriers and one land-line operator. The sector reaped $2 billion in 2010, of which the lion’s share is attributed to taxes, L according to Labor Minister (former Telecommunications Minister) Charbel Nahhas1 The Current State of Telecoms Currently there are two state-owned mobile operators in Lebanon, MTC touch and Alfa, both managed by private companies (Zain Group and Orascom Telecom, respectively). The sole land-line operator in Lebanon is state-run "QK

In Lebanon, internet is provided by 16 private, licensed ISPs, along with other unlicensed service providers.

1- Phones The most recent Annual Report from the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (2010) suggests that monthly prices for mobile services in Lebanon fall well above averages in the Arab world. The following table 1 from the report shows Lebanon’s prices in comparison to 8 other Arab countries/territories:

January 2010 prices, 30 calls/60 SMS per month (USD) Table 1 Palestine 95.37 Tunisia 27.05 Lebanon 67.44 Egypt 23.78 Morocco 67.25 Algeria 16.47 Syria 39.36 Jordan 6.46 Libya 32.92 Arab Country Average ~40 From: TRA Annual Report, 2010

Meanwhile, the penetration rate of mobile service in Lebanon also stands low in the region, according to the same report as shown in Table 2:

2010 Mobile Penetration Rates, Arab World Table 2 UAE %232 Jordan %105 KSA(Saudi Arabia) %186 Morocco %96 Qatar %166 Egypt %94 Bahrain %142 Lebanon %69 Kuwait %120 Palestine %63 Tunisia %106 Syria %52 From: TRA Annual Report, 2010

€Q penetration rate of %62, and prices for the 60 calls/month basket at $42.51. This compares favourably to the Arab-Mediterranean country average of ~$44 per month, but below the average for OECD countries of $37. The Q$„ QK{†{

issue 113 | December 2011 16 | PUBLIC SECTOR LEBANON’S TELECOMMUNICATIONS SECTOR

2- Internet Wireless internet was introduced in Lebanon in 2005, and broadband through ADSL technology was introduced in 2007. Lebanon used to rank poorly in its internet services, with low speeds and high prices (the highest speed available in Lebanon, through broadband was 2.3 Megabits/second, charging USD 70 per megabyte.) However, the situation has totally changed today after new telecom improvements helped boosting the sector, positioning the speed at 8 megabytes and lowering the prices by 80%. Low-Speed Broadband (<1Mbps) Monthly Prices, USD Table 3 Palestine 106 Tunisia 40.31 Syria 92.11 Algeria 34.27 Jordan 73.48 Morocco 32.07 Lebanon 16 (as of October 2011) Egypt 29.72 Libya 50.83 Arab/Mediterranean Average ~60 From: TRA Annual Report, 2010

According to the TRA, %20 of households in Lebanon November 2007, the TRA and HCP launched a public had DSL by the end of 2010. In the TRA report, Lebanon auction for the two mobile networks, MTC and Alfa. The places 5th out of 11 Arab measured countries in its DSL auction’s intent was to sell the assets of the two mobile penetration rates. DSL is made available by 171 “Central providers to companies that meet certain standards, while "P+;&; the government would retain a third of the shares in increased by 81 compared to the year prior. It is forecast MTC and Alfa – later to be sold to the Lebanese public4. that this current state will change drastically now that However, the auction was cancelled a year later due to the sector has introduced some brand-new telecoms political circumstances, and it is unclear when it will trends In terms of service and prices. resume. There have also been no visible efforts as of yet to transform the state-run Ogero into a corporate entity. The telecom sector and both broadband and mobile services have come a long way in the few past months. An alternative to full privatization being discussed A 3G network was installed in Lebanon in September for the telecoms sector is a Public-Private Partnership 2011. According to an MTC press release, there will be (PPP), in which investment and operations can come 850 3G access sites around Lebanon, most of which will from private companies, while the government assumes provide mobile service speeds up to 21 Mbits/second, part of the risk in the industry. This would mean that the in addition to 50 sites with speeds up to 170 Mbits/ government no longer exclusively invests and receives second, which would make a leapfrog improvement revenues from the telecommunications sector, but still in mobile services offered. Tests of speeds are being takes partial ownership and responsibility. Meanwhile, ˆ [[;; the dynamism of private corporations and competition optic infrastructure is being deployed which should would be added to the sector, lowering prices and increase the speeds and services offered for broadband encouraging innovation. It is a model being proposed for internet, as well as allow more people to access it. A many other underdeveloped sectors in Lebanon as well, € such as transportation, electricity, and water, according international connectivity, with the building of the to HCP Secretary General Ziad Hayek.5 But as of yet, “IMEWE” submarine cable, is also in the works2. the government has not implemented plans for either a PPP or a full privatization of telecommunications. 3- Privatization and an Uncertain Future ] ‰ (Endnotes) telecommunications sector. The July 22, 2002 1 The Daily Star. “Telecom Revenues Reach $2 Billion in Telecommunications Law 431 stipulated the need 2010 – Nahhas.” (January 29, 2011) 2 CommsMea. “Ready For Change: Lebanon’s TRA is to corporatize Ogero into a company called “Liban paving the way for liberalization of the countries Telco Telecom,” which would later be privatized, as well sector” (May, 2011) as establish two government agencies to spearhead 3 The Daily Star, “Privatization of Telecom Entities Under privatization efforts – the Higher Council for Way” (July 20, 2011) Privatization and the TRA. 4 Lebanon Mobile Auction, http://www. lebanonmobileauction.com/ In 2007, the Telecoms Ministry announced that the 5 Marcopolis, “Interview with Ziad Hayek, Secretary process of privatizing the sector would begin3, and in General of the Higher Council for Privatization in Lebanon” (June 7, 2010) issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT BUILDING PUBLIC SECTOR | 17 MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT BUILDING ANNUAL RENT INCREASE FROM USD 200,000 TO USD 400,000 iven the serious environmental risks jeopardizing nature and human life nowadays, environment issues have become a priority on the agendas of both advanced and developing countries. GAttention to environmental issues in Lebanon was emphasized through the establishment of the Ministry of Environment (MoE) by virtue of Law No. 216 dated April 2, 1993. However, environmental problems will not be our subject of interest in this article which will only touch on the extravagant rental cost of the ministry’s building. Headquarters Upon establishment, the ministry set up its headquarters A USD 339,900 annual cost in the forth year i.e. USD in Antelias, outside administrative Beirut. Decision 150/m2 (VAT excluded) No.3 dated 29-10-2003, which approved headquarters `{|^*+_*;`{| relocation to Al-Azariyeh wasn’t put into action and the 160/m2 (VAT excluded) ministry remained as is until the issuance of Decision No. 63 on 20-5-2004 whereby the ministry moved its Other costs are added to the rental including common Š=\K‰ services expenditures (USD 12 for every square meter) (real estate No.934) in Al-Bashoura, Downtown. and parking fees (USD 90, excluding VAT, per space) $ Headquarters rental costs three years reaches USD 398,632 while it amounts to The annual rental cost of the MoE old building stood `{|[+^__=[[=[=[ at LBP 300 million (around USD 200,000) whereas the bringing an overall total of USD 2,067,938. new rental was limited to a 5 year duration that expired on 25-1-2010. Therefore, it can be concluded that the contract cost in ~+;;_K+;&;`{|&&[ The rental of the 2,060 m2 building reached: million while the new cost jumped to USD 2.6 million `{|&__;;;`{|Š+_ up by 82.2% or USD 920,000. square meter USD 175,000 in the four consecutive years i.e. USD These high rental costs impose a series of questions: 85 for every square meter Why is the ministry headquartered in such an Other costs are added to the rental including VAT (10%), expensive area? common services expenditures (USD 12 for every square Why doesn’t the government initiate the construction meter at most) and parking fees of 21 spaces (USD 60, of state buildings to curb theses ever-increasing excluding VAT, per space) Therefore, the rental cost in rentals? `{| +&&=_+ Does the MoE need such a large area knowing USD 233,852 in each of the following years bringing an that its staff members are restricted 54 including overall total of USD 1,147,260. 30 administrative members and 24 contractual members? Contract renewal Upon expiry of the contract in the beginning of 2010, This rental hike from USD 200,000 to around USD 1 Intra Investment Co agreed to renew the contract under \ the following rental terms: squandering of money. `{|^&Š+[; USD 140/m2 (VAT excluded)

issue 113 | December 2011 18 | PUBLIC SECTOR MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY: 0.029% OF LEBANON’S GENERAL BUDGET ebanon’s Ministry of Industry is among the most recent ministries in Lebanon. It was established in 1997 to tackle industrial affairs and steer the industrial sector into growth and expansion. How many Lstaff members are there in the ministry? What are the duties assumed by the ministry and are they being fulfilled?

Establishment The Ministry of Industry was established by virtue of The Lebanese Standards Institute Law No. 642, dated June 2, 1997 after the division of The Industrial Research Institute the Ministry of Oil and Industry (established in 1973) The Industrial Zones Committee into two separate ministries. Afterwards, Law No. 247, dated August 31, 2000 dissolved the Ministry of Oil Central Administration and integrated it with the Ministry of Energy and Water. The Central Administration consists of the Directorate General of Industry which includes 5 departments and Functions 16 bureaus which are: According to the law, the Ministry of Industry is responsible for the management and development of The Diwan Department which consists of: the industrial sector. It shall ensure the implementation Human Resources and Personnel Service of all the rules and regulations pertaining to industrial Accounting and Stationery Service affairs and take the measures necessary to promote, Legal Studies Service protect and develop the national industry. Public Relations Service

The ministry is responsible for: The Economical Studies Department which consists Organizing, coordinating, protecting and developing of: national industries as well as developing new Industrial Planning and Development Service industries Exports Promotion Service Licensing industrial establishments Industry Protection and Support Service Taking all measures necessary to encourage national Cooperation and Industrial Relations Service industries $ K The Technical Affairs and Industrial Services export permits and the like Department which consists of: Receiving and examining the applications submitted Technical Studies Service by industrialists for tariff protection Industrial Studies Service Coordinating with the Ministry of Economy and Quality Control Service Trade to hold local industrial fairs and participate in Technical Training Service international fairs. Advancing the technical skills of the Lebanese The Industrial Information Department which workforce and coordinating with the Ministry of consists of: Education to come up with plans and programs Statistics and Industrial Information Service that promote technical education and vocational Computer Center training. The Industrial Permitting Department which Structure consists of: By virtue of decree No. 13173, dated 8-10-1998, and Permitting service its amendments, the Ministry of Industry consists of: Control Service Service Central Administration Industrial Zones Service Regional Departments Regional Departments The departments are spread in the North, the South, the Beqa’a, al-Nabatiyeh, Akkar and Baalbeck-Hermel. They are attached to the Directorate General of the issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY PUBLIC SECTOR | 19 ministry and each department consists of: Administrative Affairs Service ]{" Budget: Permitting and Control Service The 2010 draft budget granted the Ministry of Industry LBP 5.8 billion i.e. around 0.029% of the Staff total expenditure’s of Lebanon’s general budget. The According to the regulatory degree and its amendments, allocation is distributed as follows: the Ministry of Industry includes 219 posts, distributed as follows: " Grade one: 1 post expenses: LBP 284.4 million Grade two: 11 posts "Œ€\@+[Š[ Grade three: 109 posts Advertisements and printed materials: LBP 145 Grade four: 79 posts million ‹Œ+; Salaries, wages and remunerations: LBP 2,350 million Contribution to the Lebanese Standards Ministers: Institution: LBP 1,2 billion &; Industrial Research Institute: LBP 50 million of the Ministry in 1997 till the formation of the current Contribution to the Association of Lebanese government in June 2011. These ministers will be Industrialists: LBP 300 million mentioned hereafter according to the presidential Studies: LBP 150 million terms. It is noteworthy that Minister Nadim Salem Furniture: LBP 100 million †{] Technical equipments: LBP 145 million Affairs before issuing the law that established the Maintenance of administrative buildings: LBP „‘ 115 million the presidency of Elias Hrawi. The government lasted from November 1996 to December 1998. The duties required of the ministry are so many, but its small budget, allocated mostly for the salaries and Emile Lahoud presidential term: Nasser Saidi- Georges Frem- Elias Skaff- Layla cripples the ministry’s ability to serve the industry Solh- Bassam Yammine- Pierre Gemayel which will reach an impasse.

Michel Suleiman presidential term: Ghazi Zaiter- Abraham Dadaian- Vrej Sabounjian

Ministry of Industry: Phhoto byb Mohamedd Mashhlab

issue 113 | December 2011 20|LEGISLATION, JUDICIARY & CRIME CLERGY IMMUNITY CLERGY IMMUNITY GRANTED BY THE PEOPLE !

ebanese effective laws provide immunities to some independent post-holders like lawyers and engineers. Members of these professions may not be arrested except after the permission of the Lauthority or syndicate they work for. This article will shed light on some religious post-holders and the immunity they enjoy. Popular immunity Muslim and Christian clergy are surrounded by a divine and most of these prisoners are clergy impersonators halo. What they say is indisputable and people are to brought to justice upon request of the leader of the strictly obey it or else, incur upon themselves torture religion to which they belong. $ key to survival and the ticket to heaven. Clergy behind the bars In late June 2011, newspapers reported that the This grants the clergy both, moral and popular Lebanese army intelligence arrested in Tyre a immunity so that offending them, be it by a state, a clergyman who turned out to be Sayyed Muhammad Ali al-Husseini. Sayyed al-Husseini is the head of the religion they represent, and brings harm upon the the Arab Islamic Council which was known for offenders. For this reason, there is vigilant caution launching staunch attacks against Hezbollah, Iran not to confront clergymen, even when necessary, and Syria. Al-Husseini was arrested on charges in order to shun the wrath of the people who deem of collaboration with Israel. He was held in jail their confrontation, an offence to God and the divine and referred to the judiciary to proceed with the teachings they uphold. This mighty immunity, granted investigations and trial should the accusations be by the people, surpasses by far the immunities that the Law provides to politicians, lawyers and engineers. Syrian intelligence arrested Sheikh Hassan Legal immunity Mshaymesh while he was crossing Syria on Effective Lebanese laws provide immunity to all his way to perform Umra in Saudi Arabia. Œ Newspapers reported that Sheikh Mshaymesh is also collaborating with Israel and on bad terms with Heads of Muslim and Christian religions Syria and Hezbollah. The arrest was thanks to co- Religious judges in Muslim and Christian courts efforts between Syria and Hezbollah. In November Muftis and members of Fatwa in Muslim and last year, Syria handed over Sheikh Mshaymesh Christian religions to the Lebanese judiciary which issued an arrest warrant against him and initiated investigations into However, the rest of the clergy does not enjoy any the accusations. legal immunity and may be arrested and jailed upon violation of the rules and regulations, without prior It is circulated that a Shia’a clergyman was permission from the highest religious authority. bailed out after spending a while in prison. The Lebanese jails are packed with religious men, mostly †  minimum requirements of Islamic studies. Religious drug dealing, swindling and fraud. wear is not subjected to any standards or restrictions

issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. BEIRUT MUNICIPALITY WORKERS UNION PRIVATE SECTOR|21 BEIRUT MUNICIPALITY WORKERS UNION: A DROP FROM 5,000 TO 350 MEMBERS he Beirut Municipality Workers Union is an example of the unions whose membership increased prior to the 1975 civil strife then witnessed a postwar decline due to the privatization of several municipal Tfunctions particularly those pertaining to cleaning. Establishment and membership: To specify the date of elections, inform the labor The union was established by virtue of decision No. ministry thereof at least 15 days earlier, publish the 1/585, dated September 25, 1972, under the name of date in two papers and issue a circular detailing the the Beirut Municipality Cleaning Workers Union which place and time of the elections as well as the expiry was later amended to the Beirut Municipality Workers date of the candidacy period. Union by virtue of decision No. 1/20, dated January To arrange, 10 days before the elections, a list of the 22, 1973. members who have the right to vote provided that Union membership is optional and any Lebanese over 18 years old and with no criminal record may be a To admit to the secretary the election candidacy worker in the municipality. Foreigners with a work applications accompanied by non-conviction permit may also be members but may not participate in Q voting or election. 3 days before the elections. Upon its establishment, the union included around $ 5,000 members but this number decreased to 350 or refrains from paying his membership fees for nowadays due to the privatization of some municipal over 3 months despite written notice. facilities (Sukleen replaced cleaning maids.) " Union committees themselves: The union is composed of a general committee and a president a union board: a vice president a secretary The general committee includes all members and is a vice secretary tasked with approving the union budget drafted by a treasurer the administrative committee. It is also responsible an accountant for amending the union bylaw when needed by a an advertising agent majority of two thirds of its members. Other committees may be elected when necessary. The administrative committee or the union board includes 12 members elected by the general committee. President of the board: he is the union president, and Elections take place every 4 years and 6 board members he represents it before the government, the judiciary are replaced by lot every two years. The new members $ continue the remaining two years and the board elects calls for and chairs the meetings of the board, the a president to speak on its behalf before all authorities general committee and the delegates’ board. He and manage the union activity with the assistance of a signs the decisions issued by the union and assumes vice president, a secretary, a vice secretary, a treasurer, the responsibility of implementing them. He may an accountant and six members. also withdraw certain funds under his own signature accompanied by the secretary’s. These funds shall The functions of the union board are: not exceed the ceiling provided for him in necessary To look into the matters that interest workers and + following the disbursement date on the reasons and bylaw. The board’s decisions are taken by majority purposes of this disbursement. vote and considered operative.

issue 113 | December 2011 22|PRIVATE SECTOR BEIRUT MUNICIPALITY WORKERS UNION

The vice president replaces the president when he is Joining the State Employees Cooperative absent and assumes the same rights and duties. Attaining one grade every two years i.e. around 10% of the basic salary. The secretary is responsible for keeping the union @ &*& records and documents and setting the agendas with the after-service medical treatment. president and recording all meeting minutes. He is also in Obtaining a post-retirement medical card favoring charge of addressing invitations, registering membership cards signed by the president and signing all releases, children by 100% and his parents by 75% for letters and decisions issued by the union board. hospitalization and 50% for medical treatment. Raising pension rates by 140%. The vice secretary replaces the secretary and assumes @~ his responsibilities when he is absent. is granted a one-month salary for each year after 10 years of service and a two-month salary after 20 years The treasurer is in charge of receiving and managing of service. Those who served between 20 and 30 years the union funds. He also monitors the collection of receive a 2.5 month salary for each year and servers over 30 years enjoy a 3 month salary for each year.) vouchers undersigned by his name and the union president’s. He also keeps a journal recording all Union impediments revenues and expenses. The treasurer is unauthorized The union is facing several challenges including to disburse money without a decision from the union problems with governmental authorities in particular. board or the president. The union believes that the government is The treasurer withholds a certain amount of money attempting to take away the gains it achieved so far and deposits the excess in a bank selected by the board \ after informing the ministry of labor thereof. He also to maintain them. It is noteworthy that not one employee was hired since 1975 and that Sukleen upon the board’s request. has replaced cleaning workers which decreased membership rates and resulted in turn in absenting The funds deposited in the bank may not be withdrawn the pressure that used to prevail earlier. without the approval of the board. The check shall be After law 8/8 offered special grants for employees, signed by the president, the secretary and the treasurer the union requested that the 10% be added to the and if any of them were absent, his substitute shall replace employees’ basic salary which was approved by him. In the event of board dissolution, the money in the \ board fund and the bank is returned to the members who between the ministries. paid their fees at the beginning of the dissolution year. The union also confronts obstacles pertaining to hospitalization and medical care and keeps on trying The accountant assists the treasurer in managing ‰ He may also examine all documents at all times and he assumes the responsibilities of the treasurer when he’s absent on grounds of illness or travel. Union activities The union had major activities that include: " $ license was achieved due to a series of strikes, objections and consultations and particularly to the great effect the union exerted given its large membership. Hiring permanent employees after they were working on daily basis. @&;+ to exploit all facilities. Municipaalitty of Beeiri ut Buiu lding issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. SAINT GEORGE SCHOOL- ZALKA PRIVATE SECTOR|23 PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN LEBANON SAINT GEORGE SCHOOL- ZALKA OVER 50 YEARS AT THE SERVICE OF EDUCATION Purpose In addition to securing high academic levels in sciences The Saint George High School operates in alignment and humanities and guiding students to have faith in with the instructions of the parish education board and God and understand Church teachings, Saint George within the scope of Catholic education secretariat. High School “instructs students to be responsibly autonomous, abide by human principles and open up to Status quo various civilizations so as to interact with their society The main and only branch of the school is located in in a human and civilized manner.” ’ which is dedicated for the administration, the second Establishment and evolution for elementary and intermediate students and the third Saint Georges School was established in the early for secondary and technical classes. sixties, when Sheikh George Samrani and his wife, members of Notre Dame de la Delivrance parish, The school houses several playgrounds and sports clubs decided to take part in educating their neighborhood to meet the students’ needs and offer them a suitable children and schooling them on Christian and patriotic environment for recreation and exercising. principles. Thus, the republic decree No. 6361 dated Sports clubs including basketball, football and handball 24-12-1966 allowed the then Cyprus Maronite diocese- clubs. Antelias Diocese now- to establish the Maronite Mar Laboratories including physics and chemistry Jerjes School which became by virtue of decree No. laboratories that help students understand and apply 179, dated 16-3-1973, the Saint George High School. the theories they study. A library including a great variety of science and {‹ literature books to educate students and promote that admitted male students only. In 1969, it became a reading. unisex school whose classes and students grew to provide A computer lab used during computer sessions. the entire secondary stage of education. In 1977, Father Antoine Gemayel established the Saint George Technical School by virtue of decree No. 175, dated May 26, 1977. The school program combines technical baccalaureates in commercial studies, secretary, and nursing.

In 1993 the “Saint George Technical School” turned into the “Saint George High Technical Institute” by virtue of decree No. 2033 dated 1-12-1993. New parts were added to the premises, and the school was coupled with the “Chartereau” school in Lyon-France as part of the twining agreement between the dioceses of Antelias and Lyon. This twinning project promotes spiritual, cultural and academic exchanges and encourages mutual visits between the students and teachers of the two countries.

In 2003, a large rehabilitation workshop was launched in the school and special attention was devoted to the restoration of kindergartens. Sainnt Georo ge Schhool- Zalka httpp://www.csgzalka.edu.lb/

issue 113 | December 2011 24|PRIVATE SECTOR SAINT GEORGE SCHOOL- ZALKA Curriculum and education activities are incorporated within the science lessons Being a francophone school, Saint George focuses given to students. mainly on the French language, albeit it adopts three Social spiritual days: students visit social foundations education languages- Arabic, French, English- and (senior home care, reformatory…) as part of the social € service program in the school. Annual festival: the school crowns its yearly activities According to the administration, Saint George with a three day festival that summarizes the social and educational projects carried out throughout the year. Creating a spiritual environment at school through It also features poetic soirées, plays, exhibitions and student guidance towards Christian values and different contests between the students and the parents. rethinking educational techniques so that they fall under the special educational program of the diocese. Qualities Taking care of the behavioral and moral practices Despite being a Catholic school that focuses on teaching of the students and providing a suitable climate that evangelical values, Saint George High school-Zalka is an facilitates instruction and success. integrated family at full readiness to receive all students Focusing on advancing French language levels, with regardless of their confessional belonging. Besides the due consideration to English as well. spiritual purposes sought by the school, Saint George aims at achieving academic, national and social goals School structure and student population that result in the production of a student that abides by The Saint George’s administrative committee consists sublime human values, and learns to develop love for his of 6 members against 64 members in the instruction land and responsibility for his actions. committee which includes both, male and female teachers, distributed according to the courses, the  classes and the cycles. following entities: An education board consisting of education experts There have been around 593 students at the Saint George including priests and laymen responsible for running { _Š+ the school distributed in the academic division at around 26 to 30 A parental committee tasked with applying the students in every class and the rest were studying nursing. administration. The annual fees range from LBP 1,985,000 and LBP A teachers’ union responsible for managing the teachers’ 3,150,000 depending on education cycles and classes. affairs in collaboration with the administration. Mindful of the modest living conditions of some A student alumni union serving as a bridge between Lebanese families, the school offers discounts and former students and graduates and responsible for organizing cultural and social activities. A twinning committee consisting of 15 members that Activities represent the administration, the teachers, the students Sports activities: the school sports committee organizes and the parents. volleyball, basketball and football tournaments A sports club responsible for bringing the youth together encompassing a wide range of participants from and fostering the cooperative spirit among them. different schools. A group from the Lebanon’s scout association Arts activities: Saint George students won awards of responsible for infusing students with the scouting spirit. the Fabriano painting and drawing contests. Intellectual and literary activities: Saint George High School holds cultural and literary lectures to accompany students in their quest for knowledge. Values education: the school holds lectures that raise the students’ awareness over their social role, physical growth and sex perception. University fair: the school organizes an annual university fair to guide students towards the available majors in the market Environmental activities: various environmental issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. HEALTH | 25 THE DEMENTIAS Dr. Hanna Saadah

Dementia is a general term, which Depression, alcoholism, low thyroid, low vitamin B12, indicates that a noticeable brain decline hydrocephalus (high water pressure around the brain), certain has taken place and that the individual’s poisonings, and many other disorders can masquerade as mind is no longer as good as it used to dementia, are potentially treatable, and should not be missed. be. These changes might be noticed by the individual or by those who know The most important risk factors for dementia are increasing the individual well enough to detect that he or she is suffering age, genetic (or familial) predispositions, conditions that from diminished mental and physical abilities. cause hardening of the arteries (such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking), brain infections There are as many types of dementia, as there are diseases (encephalitis), severe mental illnesses, and brain concussions. that cause dementia, and the manifestations of dementia vary Failing memory, however, may be a normal consequence greatly, depending on the individual’s age, education, health of aging; at 85 a person can remember only half of the condition, social situation, and support systems. With few vocabulary he or she had at age 18. But failing memory is exceptions, dementias tend to be progressive with age, starting also an important precursor of dementia because 12% of those after fifty and becoming more prevalent with each decade. who are experiencing memory failure transition to dementia Current estimates suggest that 10% of individuals over 70 every year and 75% of dementia patients herald their disease and up to 40% over 85 have enough memory loss that could with memory symptoms. progress to dementia with attendant declines in language skills, visual-spatial perceptions, mathematical calculations, There are new, sophisticated tests that can detect dementia at an problem solving, and mood stability. Destabilized emotions early stage but we still lack the medical treatments necessary might lead to delusions, agitation, anger, insomnia, and lack of to arrest or reverse the disease. Because of that, making a very inhibitions, which could result in reckless behavior. early diagnosis is seldom important except in situations where patients may wish to put their affairs in order based on the Recent memory often becomes impaired long before distant recognition that they would not be able to do so as their disease memory. This paradox—the individual has problems recalling progresses. The natural course of Alzheimer’s disease from recent events while still exhibiting excellent recall of distant diagnosis till death is 8 to 10 years but some may die after one events—is rather typical of most types of dementia. With year if their disease is exceptionally rapid while others may time, however, dementia leads to global brain dysfunction with linger on for 25 years if their disease is exceptionally slow. oblivion of self, family, and surroundings, and impairments in the skills of daily living such as dressing, grooming, eating, The Mini-Mental State Examination is a useful screening test washing, and using the toilet. for dementia but is not sensitive enough to detect the very early stages. A score > 25 = normal; 21-24 = mild; 10-20 = The four commonest types of dementia are: 1) Alzheimer’s moderate; and <9 = severe. disease—responsible for >50% of cases; 2) Multiple small strokes— responsible for 10 to 20% of cases; 3) Parkinson’s Orientation: Name season/date/day/month/year = 5 points. Name building, floor, town, state, country = 5 points. disease and other brain degenerating conditions and 4) Regulation: Identify three objects by name then ask the patient to repeat Alcoholism or other drug effects and addictions. A skilled those three names (e.g. shoe, clock, jacket) = 3 points. Attention and Calculation: Subtract 7 from 100 seven times and call clinician can diagnose these four types and can also rule out each number (i.e. 93, 86, 79, 72, 65) = 5 points. the other, less common, brain-undermining conditions that Recall: Recall the three objects presented earlier (i.e. shoe, clock, jacket) = 3 may present as pseudo-dementias and are potentially treatable. points. Language: Name pencil and watch = 2 points. Repeat “No ifs, ands, and buts.” = 1 point. As a rule most dementias that are progressive are untreatable. Follow a 3-step command (e.g. “Take the paper, fold it in half, and The existing treatments merely help memory during the early place it on the table.”) = 3 points. Write “close your eyes” and ask the patient to obey the written but not during the advanced stages. There are no proven command = 1 point. treatments that halt the progression of dementia. There are, Ask the patient to write a complete sentence = 1 point. Ask the patient to copy a complex design (e.g. intersecting however, reversible causes of dementia (pseudo-dementias) pentagons) = 1 point. that need to be ruled out during the dementia workup. Total = 30 points. www.hannasaadah.com - www.information-international.com - [email protected] issue 113 | December 2011 26 | THE AMAZING BRAIN A PARABLE ABOUT HUMANITY: IS OUR NATURE BRUTISH AND SELFLESS, OR TRUSTING AND PROSOCIAL? Dr. Samar Zebian A scorpion comes along and says to the turtle, ‘How about taking me across this lake?’ The turtle says, ‘Do you think I am a nut. We are going to get out in the middle there, you are going to sting me and we are going to drown’. ‘Why would I do that?’ says the scorpion, ‘We will both drown’. So the turtle says, ‘You are right, we will both drown, get up on my back.’ So they get out into the middle and the scorpion stings the turtle and he says, ‘What did you do that for?’, and the scorpion says ‘That’s my nature’.

The scorpion’s sting is a biologically based conditioned quality of life of people by improving how people relate survival response and the sting might be likened to a fear to one another in the family, at work and at school. In response in humans. The question for this article is whether a longitudinal study, researchers surveyed children living people are more like the scorpion, bound by overpowering in prosocial neighborhoods. The prosociality of the survival instincts which are hard to suppress even in neighborhood was assessed in several ways. First they situations where they are maladaptive, or are we more like asked children about their attitude towards the welfare of the turtle, trusting and willing to lend a hand when we others (“I think it is important to help other people”, “I are needed. We can also ask whether we even have some am helping to make my community a better place”). The sort of thing call “nature”- a biologically based character students’ answers were validated by door-to-door surveys which is more or less immutable. After all, the way we of adults in the same neighborhood and an experimental evolve, as individuals and species, is also dependent on economics games played for money which assessed how the environment. test involved dropping a stamped addressed envelopes The evidence that our prosociality is genetically driven on the sidewalks of the various neighborhoods to see if the students in different neighborhoods were kind enough genetic relatives. Chimps don’t teach their offspring how to mail the lost letter. They used each of these means to to be nice, yet De Waal has demonstrated in experimental establish the “prosociality” of the neighborhood. Three settings that chimpanzees preferentially share food with years after the original survey, the same children, now animals that have recently groomed them and tended teenagers, were surveyed again. Some of the original to share food with those who recently shared food with children had moved down out of a prosocial neighborhood them. Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for and into a less prosocial neighborhood and some moved Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany also up into a prosocial neighborhood. Results showed that found that chimps opened a cage of food for unfamiliar the prosociality of teenagers, which many have assume to chimps without expecting a reward. Soon after these be biologically driven, changed as a function of the new primate studies it was discovered that human infants as neighborhood. Other studies have also found that the young as 18 months help adults reach objects or open \ cabinet doors. This body of work, suggests that humans changes over time. For example younger children are more and our closest genetic relatives are born, or at least very altruistic if they live in a family which has a supportive early on acquire, the propensity to lend a helping hand in belief system, whereas biological factors have more the absence of self interest. \

Given the pervasiveness of self-interest in older children The parable of the scorpion and the turtle suggests that and adult human relations one might question whether Q$ this early genetically supported prosociality (reverence, psychological research on the topic suggests that it is more \ or less malleable during different stages of childhood and study associated with the Binghamton Neighborhood adolescence. Based on this research I would guess that the Project examined this question (http://bnp.binghamton. turtle and the scorpions are in fact adults who have come edu/). The project is a collaboration between researchers Q and community partners which aims to improve the the self and what can be done for other.

issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. [email protected] - www.information-international.com EYEING HORIZONS | 27 WHERE COULD THE SECRET OF LIFE BE FOUND? Antoine Boutros

xperiments aiming at identifying the structure of DNA caught the attention of a young American scientist, by the name of James Watson, who had just graduated from EIndiana University and was willing to share in the effort of exploring this mysterious realm. Meantime, another British scientist named Crick Francis was taking a similar step while preparing his thesis in Cambridge University. None of the two was prepared to embark on this mission that defied great scientists like Linus Pauling, the most influential chemist of the century, especially that Watson had problems in Chemistry, Crystallography and Mathematics while Crick was ignorant in genetic matters.

But after only two years of joint efforts within Cambridge, unpublished information on the DNA structure. Thus, the two scientists made full use of the previous efforts a theory of the structure of the DNA. Their achievement was greeted with total approval since it was able to answer all the conducting any personal research, and managed, thanks questions arose as to this discovery and to comply with the to their sharp and powerful analytical skills and wide laws of science and chemistry pertaining to the molecule. imagination, to discover what the others failed to see. $|š Had the two scientists delayed a little, a Cambridge scientist one braided rope as commonly believed, but rather made called Rosalinda Franklin, could have outraced them to the up of two strands entwined in a spiral form that gives a same results thanks to her personal efforts and independent shape of a double helix. This helix may open in a zipper- research. As a matter of fact, Franklin was the one who like manner breaking the two strands or braids. Each braid offered Watson and Crick the evidence they needed to reach will then constitute a new base-pair strand which will be their conclusions, and the technical facilities she provided replicated over again, in the same manner, passing genetic in terms of molecule x-rays allowed the world to form a instruction from one cell to another. The couple also new theory which shed light on the capabilities of genetic noticed that information that reaches the proteins, carrying engineering and the understanding of the living material. instructions for building life, cannot be transferred back However, she dropped her researches, as soon as Watson and consequently cannot get out of it, and that proteins  get transformed without altering information they carry. another study which focused on the analysis of tobacco virus. Crick called this mechanism the Central Dogma which In 1962, a Nobel Prize was awarded to seven scientists was pretty similar to theological doctrines that refused for their research on molecular Biology. Among these all kinds of interpretations. This excessive self-esteem were Watson, Crick and Rosalinda who unfortunately lead Crick to rush out of his laboratory and head to a passed away before receiving the honors which her neighboring bar, right beside the university, to declare to efforts deserve. the scientists having their break there, that he and Watson In his book “The Double Helix” published in 1968, had discovered the secret of life, as he put it. Watson revealed with an unusual honesty the mysteries American scientist Barbara McClintock had been behind the DNA discovery and described the internal conducting similar experiments for several decades and she was awarded a Nobel Price in 1983 for all the ways she academic rivalry, and fraud in order to obtain the biggest paved and the windows she opened. Barbara McClintock award which all scientists dream of. provided counter evidence to the common theory holding While the secret of the DNA took half a century to \ Q way and proved that information may be transferred from discovery. the protein to the DNA. Scientist Arthur Kornberg from Stanford University did it all in 1967, 102 years after the experiment of Miecher (please How did Watson and Crick make this discovery? refer to last issue), and he was able to form a one-braided \ $ @ |šQ and Crick concluded that the long and complicated The evidence proving that the DNA is indeed the genetic strand of DNA suggested a double spiral form, while material that carries genetic information and passes from Wilkins’ crystallography images allowed them to obtain one cell to another, will be addressed in the next issue. www.irthsumer.com - www.information-international.com - [email protected] issue 113 | December 2011 28|INTERVIEW THE MONTHLY INTERVIEWS H.E. THE SPANISH AMBASSADOR TO LEBANON JUAN CARLOS GAFO

The Monthly conducted an interview with H.E. the Spanish Ambassador to Lebanon, Juan Carlos Gafo. The interview obtained an overview of the ambassador’s path since he first entered diplomacy until he began his ambassadorial assignment in Beirut, and inquired about the diplomatic relations between Lebanon and Spain. Your Excellency, could you brief us on your personal life and how you began your diplomatic career? I was born in Madrid on February 2, 1963. I am married with two children and I like all kinds of sports and music. I went to Jesuit’s School in Madrid then moved to the University of Madrid to study law. As soon as I obtained my degree, I worked as a lawyer for the Spanish Naval Forces. I served ‘"‘„&''^ to the Spanish General Consulate in Jerusalem and served there for three years from 1994 till 1997. I was dispatched to Iran as Deputy Head of Mission in the Spanish Embassy in Tehran, a post I held for three years. Afterwards I was appointed Consul General in Buenos Aires, Argentina from 2000 till 2003. I returned to Madrid and served as THE SPANISH AMBASSADOR TO LEBANON Deputy Director General for Cultural and Economic JUAN CARLOS GAFO Affairs in 2004 before being appointed Director General of State Protocol until 2009. I was dispatched to Beirut as Juan Carlos, to Lebanon in March 2010. That same year, a Spanish Ambassador to Lebanon in January 2009. the President of the Lebanese Republic, General Michel Suleiman, made a state visit to Spain. When did the diplomatic relations between Lebanon and Spain start and how did they What are the institutions that promote the evolve throughout the years? ties between Lebanon and Spain on cultural Spain has had relations with the region before the creation and educational levels? of the modern States. Since the 19th century, there was a There is a wide variety of institutions, both public and Consul General of Spain in Jerusalem, and at the beginning private, dedicated to promoting cultural ties between our of the 20th century, a Consulate was established in Beirut. two countries. On the Spanish side, we have the Ministry of After the creation of the State of Lebanon, Spain appointed Culture, the State Society for Cultural Action, the Directorate a head of mission who was elevated, in 1953, to the rank of  { „ † Ambassador. Since then, relations between both countries Foreign Affairs and Cervantes Institute. The last two are have developed gradually, although they have been directly active here in Lebanon through Spanish Embassy \]&'='‘œQ and Cervantes Institute’s headquarters in Beirut, Kaslik, Ambassador of Spain to Lebanon, Mr. Pedro Manuel De Tripoli and Zahle. Both have annual cultural programming Aristegui, died of a shell explosion at the end of the Civil designed to spread Spanish culture and promote the ] exchange of experiences between artists from Lebanon and A historic visit was the one paid by the King of Spain, Spain. They also serve as a bridge and connection between issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. INTERVIEW|29 foundations, universities, students, associations, artists customer in 2010 according to Lebanese customs. The and private promoters of the culture of both countries. It is coverage rate has exceeded in recent years the rate of noteworthy that the main builders of this cultural relationship 50%,which made the trade balance between both countries to are the artists -painters, photographers, writers, dancers, be favorable in 2009 with a coverage rate of 191%. It would be actors, etc - who promote cultural ties between Spain and interesting to analyze the Swiss-Lebanese bilateral trade and Lebanon thanks to their interest, dedication and passion for draw lessons that can be applicable and useful for improving their respective works. Our mission is to promote exchanges trade relations between Spain and Lebanon. I personally and networking between them, especially the youth that are think that, at the short and medium terms, merchandise not yet consecrated. Mutual knowledge and work sharing trade balance between Lebanon and Spain will always be is one of the best ways to consolidate friendly relations and unfavorable for Lebanon, being a purely importer country cooperation between our two peoples. of goods with low coverage rates with its trading partners. To compensate external low coverage rates, my suggestion, How do you evaluate Spain’s participation in especially directed to Lebanese young entrepreneurs, has a the UNIFIL in light of the current events in threefold commercial aspect: good knowledge of the market South Lebanon and the attacks that targeted in situ, increase of services exports in which Lebanon is a the UNIFIL? leader and direct investment in Spanish companies. Spain decided to participate in the International Interim Forces since the creation of UNIFIL 2 in 2006. It has done How large is the Spanish population in it with a high level of commitment. Spain has one of the Lebanon? largest contingents, with about 1,300 soldiers, deployed in - There are 886 Spanish nationals residents in Lebanon and perhaps - the most contentious area on the southern border near 10,000 Lebanese nationals resident in Spain. of the country. And since January 2010, the Spanish General Alberto Asarta Cuevas, holds the post of Force Commander What are the similarities between Lebanon and Head of the mission. Our commitment to peace, stability and Spain if any? and independence of Lebanon is unswerving. ~ landscapes...), gastronomic and, especially, the way of life of our two peoples (proximity, social relations ...). It the commercial balance between Lebanon is noteworthy that the Spanish language has more than and Spain in favor of the latter? 3,500 words of Arabic origins. Lebanon is a purely importer country, with a highly €Q How many staff members are there in the than a quarter of its imports. In fact, the external coverage Embassy? rate of Lebanon versus its suppliers was 23.7% in 2010 and There are 48 people working for the Spanish Embassy 21.5% in 2009 and 2008. As for the year 2011, Lebanese in Beirut, in addition to 20 staff members at Cervantes global exports maintain the same proportion of imports Institute and 19 temporary hired staff than in previous years, with a coverage rate of 23%. How many visas are issued annually? It is not surprising that bilateral trade between Lebanon In the last three years, the total number of Schengen and Spain moves at similar levels with a favorable credit and Residency visas issued by the Embassy of Spain to Spain. Coverage rates of Lebanon with Spain have has considerably increased. In 2009, 3,398 visas were hovered around 15% in the last three years, reaching granted, while in 2010, 5,262 visas were issued, with their peak of 20.6% in 2010.It should be noted- that the an increase of 55% compared to 2009. As for this year, coverage rate of Lebanon with Spain is higher than its until end of September 2011, the Embassy issued 6,670 average coverage rate with the European Union, main Schengen and Residency Visas, with an increase of 27% supplier and customer for Lebanon. Analyzing foreign compared to last year. trade in recent years between Lebanon and the countries of the European Union shows that the Lebanese coverage You have been in Lebanon for a while now. rate with its main partner has been less than 10%, except What is it that you like best about our country in 2010 where it reached the rate of 11.9%. During the and what is it that you complain about? period from January to August 2011, Lebanese exports What I like the most about Lebanon is the hospitality of its to the European Union have only represented 7.6% of people and the Lebanese cuisine. I complain a little about Lebanese purchases from the European Union. €] Very different is the case of Switzerland, Lebanon’s main

issue 113 | December 2011 30 | ART, CULTURE & RELIGION ARMENIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH ARMENIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH CATHOLICOS ELECTED BY PEOPLE

rmenia adopted Christianity as its official religion in the year 301 under the rule of King Drtad. The Armenian Orthodox Church was among the eastern orthodox churches that rejected the doctrines promulgated by the ACouncil of Chalcedon (451) and separated themselves from Rome. Armenian Orthodox Church $ Diocese of Jezireh, Syria Armenia moved to settle in Cilicia after a large number Diocese of Damascus, Syria \ Diocese of Cyprus unrest. A new Catholicos was elected in Armenia in Prelacy of Eastern United States of America 1441 and since then, the Armenian Orthodox Church Prelacy of Western United States of America has been led by two catholicates with equal rights and Vicariate of Venezuela privileges. Prelacy of Canada Catholicate of all Armenian Orthodox in Armenia Diocese of Greece Catholicate of the Great House of Cilicia (which Diocese of Tehran, Iran moved to Lebanon later on) Diocese of Isfahan, Iran Diocese of Azerbaijan, Iran Armenians in Lebanon Diocese of Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates Although the Armenian existence in Lebanon dates back to many centuries, the largest wave of Armenians Jurisdiction of the Catholicos \\ The Catholicos is the highest and ultimate spiritual result of the atrocious massacres they suffered by the authority in the Armenian Orthodox confession. Ottoman Empire in 1915. Armenians settled in many His importance is parallel to that of the Pope in the regions such as Burj Hammoud, Tripoli and Beirut. Catholic Church with one difference that there are There are around 110 thousand Armenians in Lebanon two Catholicoses for Armenians instead of one. His nowadays. Holiness Catholicos Aram I, current Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia was elected in June 1995. He is Catholicate of the Great House of Cilicia the highest spiritual and administrative authority of all Cilicia is a Turkish town located near the borders of dioceses in Lebanon and abroad, and he is responsible Syria along the Mediterranean shores and housing for all the institutions falling under his jurisdiction many cities such as Sis, Adana and Marsin. The ${\œK Armenian Orthodox Catholicate established its School in Byblos, Elderly Nursing Home in Burj permanent seat in Sis in the eleventh century and it Hammoud and the Sanatorium in Al-Azzounieh. was known as the Catholicate of the Great House of Cilicia. The Ottomans recognized the Armenian Who elects the Catholicos? Orthodox confession in 1863 but the massacres and The Catholicos is elected indirectly by the Armenian oppression that targeted the Armenians forced them Orthodox community and his election is the most \ democratic among all church elections. countries including Lebanon. And so, the Armenian Catholicate moved to Lebanon with the nation and Electoral mechanism: settled in Antelias in the year 1930. Members of the Armenian parishes elect a number of delegates (1 or two or more) to represent them and There are 14 dioceses serving under the jurisdiction of the church priests (married men exercising religious the Catholicate of the Great House of Cilicia. These practices in the church) embark on a similar mission. dioceses are established in areas of large Armenian The elected members, religious and laymen, constitute concentration in different countries: altogether the diocesan council. For instance, the Diocese of Lebanon council consists of 43 members. Diocese of Aleppo, Syria

issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. ARMENIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH ART, CULTURE & RELIGION | 31 The Catholicos is elected“ indirectly by the Armenian Orthodox community and his election is the most democratic among all church elections {  ” diocesan council in areas of Armenian presence would convene to elect a number of delegates, from among its members, so that they elect a new Catholicos. The electoral assembly consists of 130 to 170 delegates one- fourth of whom are clergy members and three-fourths are laymen (the 1995 electoral assembly consisted of 150 members including 35 clergy members and 115 laymen.)

$$ number is later narrowed down to only three among whom only bishops are elected to the post of elected Catholicos noting that priests are not entitled to this post. Who elects the Bishop? Should the post of bishop become vacant, the council CATHOLICOS ARAM I convenes and calls on the Catholicos to nominate three members among whom they elect one as bishop. In rare cases, the council can choose a name that does not fall within the list suggested by the Catholicos. The bishop is usually elected from among the monks or the Coadjutor Catholicos Karekin II of Eastern United bishops who do not head any diocese. States of America (1977-1995). He was elected Catholicos of All Armenians in 1995 œ  Catholicos Aram I, the current Catholicos who was Catholicate of the Great House of Cilicia since its elected in June 1995 after serving as the Armenian transfer to Lebanon in 1930. Orthodox Bishop Catholicos Sahak Khabayan II who established the Armenian School of Theology and organized the There are around 50 monks and bishops around the parishes all over the world. He died in 1939.  Coadjutor Catholicos Papken I who assisted Cilicia, in addition to 300 priests, 23 of whom live in Catholicos Sahak Lebanon. Monks and bishops are allowed to reside in Catholicos Bedros I of Cyprus (1940) archbishoprics since they don’t get married whereas Catholicos Karekin I of North America (1943- 1952) with the church or in their private houses. Catholicos Zareh I of Aleppo (1950-1963) Catholicos Khoren I of Lebanon (1963-1983)

issue 113 | December 2011 32 | ART, CULTURE & RELIGION HOW DOES ONE BECOME AN ARMENIAN ORTHODOX CLERGYMAN? HOW DOES ONE BECOME AN ARMENIAN ORTHODOX CLERGYMAN? Any Armenian Orthodox who wishes to join the clergy should fulfill a number of conditions and receive theological education at the seminary of Bikfaya.

Conditions Pursuing monkhood Any person is entitled to become an Armenian Pursuing priesthood Orthodox clergyman provided that: He is born to Armenian Orthodox parents How does one become a monk? He is 13 years old and above The candidate aspiring to become a monk should notify the ‘K director of the seminary of his desire to undertake a monastic He enjoys physical and mental sanity vocation. The director would then refer his request to the He believes in Christianity and has a good reputation Catholicos who decides whether the candidate meets the requirements needed to serve the church or not. Once the Student selection Catholicos grants him the approval, a date is set to ordain the Whoever wishes to pursue a religious career, must candidate as monk in the Armenian Orthodox church. Upon notify the priest of the parish he attends thereof. The his ordination, the candidate will be given a new monk’s name holding a religious notion. The third step entails that the monk for the post or not. Later, a monk from the theological seminary of Bikfaya would be dispatched to the parishes $ ‹ remain in the Catholicosate of Antelias from one to three years House of Cilicia in Lebanon and abroad. On his visits,  the monk would meet with those interested in joining the duties assigned to him such as managing the library or the clergy to make sure of their eligibility for the post. the museum. Afterwards, the monk may ask for permission to pursue a higher religious education, in Lebanon or abroad, Enrollment at the seminary and obtain a masters degree in theology or philosophy or etc… Afterwards, the selected candidates would join He may also move to parishes, in Lebanon or overseas, upon the theological seminary in Bikfaya (a religious the request of the bishop from the Catholicos. To be raised to boarding school) where they receive free education the dignity of an Archimandrite, the monk should conduct a and accommodation. The 8-year education program study or a research assigned by the Catholicos. His research adopted at the seminary is divided into two phases: would then be referred to the bishops’ committee, headed by Phase one lasts four years during which the students the Catholicos, to approve his promotion. take ordinary courses in parallel with some introductory ‘ \ courses in theology and the bible. Secondary place through elections (refer to the previous article) students aging 18 and above and holding a secondary or appointment by the Catholicos. baccalaureate may be exempt of this phase. How does one become a priest? Phase two lasts another four years during which the students The candidate to priesthood should be married and notify receive in-depth religious education. The curriculum the seminary’s director of his desire to become a priest. The emphasizes on the history of the Christian Church in general, director would then inform the bishops in the various parishes and the Armenian Orthodox church in particular. The about that so that the aspiring priests could join the churches program adopted at the seminary offers courses in Christian and parishes in Lebanon or abroad. Bishops may send their teachings, theology (taught by the Catholicos), philosophy parish’s deacons to schools where they get recruited and and psychology in addition to language courses including prepared for the post. Three years later, they celebrate their English, French, Arabic and Armenian with emphasis on Old ordination as priests and return to their parishes. and New Testament studies. Students are ordained as sub- Number of students education before they are raised to deacons at the end of the The number of students joining the seminary differs seventh year. In the eighth year however, students should from one year to another. Sometimes around 40 to 50 make up their minds and notify their seminary’s director of students enroll at the seminary, while at others not one their decision which will be one of the following: student seeks candidacy. There are 3 to 5 graduates every Abandoning religious life and returning to laicism year since the majority of students opts to return to laity. issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. SAFADI FOUNDATION ART, CULTURE & RELIGION | 33 SAFADI FOUNDATION “20 YEARS AT THE SERVICE OF SOCIETY” Non-Governmental Organizations play a pivotal role in soothing the suffering of the Lebanese in the medical, educational and social arenas. It also helps in bridging the gap and filling the void resulting due to the state’s vulnerability. Safadi Foundation is one of these elite foundations.

The Monthly conducted an interview with Mr. Riad and a children’s library. The sector organizes hundreds Alameddine, General Manager of Safadi Foundation of cultural events yearly, such as concerts, exhibitions, on the activities and history of the foundation. theater and activities for children in collaboration with History international cultural centers, embassies and universities. 1985-2000 2001-2005 2006-2009 2011 Charitable Transition Development New Education Sector: The education sector has three Humanitarian Period Organization Development main programs to meet its objectives: Organization Strategy $ { \ @ which includes 9 ICT and 7 English Learning Centers throughout North Lebanon. Description The second is the Academic and Career Support The organization began working informally over 20 Program which includes a Leadership project for years ago along philanthropic lines during the civil war youth and an Alternative education in collaboration that marked Lebanon’s history, at which time it strived to with LAU to offer the Continuing Education respond to the humanitarian crisis by providing support Program in North Lebanon. to individuals and institutions. In the year 2000, the Finally, the third program is the Learning socio-political crises in Lebanon ended and therefore Environment Program within which the Foundation new strategic frameworks were necessary and thus, the has improved school infrastructure of public  K schools across the region. non-governmental organization headquartered in Tripoli. Social Development Sector: The Social development Activities Sector has 3 main programs to meet its objectives: Safadi Foundation has four sectors of intervention The Women’s Program through which it implements programs and projects The Youth Program that respond to the region’s needs. The Local Development Program. The three programs are implemented in its main facilities Rural Development and sustainable Agriculture located in marginalized communities of Tripoli: the Sector: the sector operates through the Rural Women’s Academy to empower women and activate Development and Agriculture Quality Center in Akkar their participation, Haretna (our neighborhood) Center which offers several facilities such as an ICT training to promote a sense of belonging and citizenship and room, laboratories, Akkar Apiculture Center and a Shababouna Center to empower youth at risk. vegetable and fruit sorting and packaging lot. Its activities include extension services offering better agricultural Vision and Mission practices, farmer to farmer knowledge transfer and The Foundation’s vision is “a just society that offers exchange, reforestation campaigns, facilitating the  implementation and integration of new agricultural utilizes its resources to foster sustainable development.” technologies and a demo hydroponics greenhouse for knowledge transfer. As for its mission, it is “to develop society and advance livelihoods particularly of those marginalized and Culture Sector: The Culture Sector’s main base of vulnerable through: work is located at the Safadi Cultural Center that offers Raising constructive consciousness on development an auditorium, a North Hall, classrooms, Tripoli Hall issues and terrace and Al Mouna Library – a public library that Building and strengthening human and institutional holds a valuable collection of over 10,000 resources, capacities internet access and audiovisual material, a study space Enhancing participation and partnership at all levels”

issue 113 | December 2011 34 | ART, CULTURE & RELIGION SAFADI FOUNDATION

Values: There are four main values for the foundation. ] ž {  Equality: The commitment to a rights based approach continues to offer employment services through the Innovation: The quest for improvement and creativity website: www.jobhelper.com. Job seekers can send  The devotion to high quality their CVs through the website to connect them with performance and sustainable achievements opportunities. Credibility: The commitment to transparency and Safadi Foundation considers that, in addition to integrity projects and activities, development needs tools and references to enhance awareness and educate society. Objectives: According to Mr. Alameddine, the For this reason, Safadi Foundation released several objectives of the Foundation are: booklets and reference materials in 2010: To improve the quality of life for the sectors of University Students in Tripoli Read, Research and society that suffers from deprivation and to work to Write meet their urgent needs; My Story To support development initiatives in various socio- Tripoli in Memory economic, environmental, educational and cultural The Story of the Stairs Memory of Al Namli Stairs concerned parties; The Beekeepers Guide To strengthen the role of various community groups, Cultivation of Vegetables in Greenhouses especially those that are marginalized and to ensure Good Agriculture Practices – Vegetables: Cucumber that they participate in drafting and implementing and Tomatoes development plans; To develop human capacity in general, particularly that of young people, and to guide them towards the $‰ needs of the job market; They are: To tackle public issues that directly affect the well- Safadi Foundation- France being of society and to mobilize the necessary Safadi Foundation- United States of America Cooperative for Development and Agro-Food processing in Akkar and Dinnieh Funding and expenses Nabras Foundation - Saida {Œ Al-Mouttahed Club – Tripoli Private donations Funding from local, regional and international The Safadi Foundation has cooperated throughout donor agencies and partners its history with partners, donors and institutions: Table 1 details the revenues and expenses of the Lebanese Government, Local Government, and United Foundation with the main revenues coming from private Nations in Lebanon, National and International Non- donations (73.2%) and the majority of the expenses going Governmental Organizations, Cultural Organizations, to Rural Development and Sustainable Agricultural Sector Embassies, Private Sector, Universities … (26.76%), followed by the educational sector (22.3%). Revenues and expenses of the foundation Table 1 Safadi Foundation Revenues Expenses The Safadi Foundation was established by virtue of Š_Ÿ|†+&+;;&] Member Social Contributions 0.03% Development 19.80% is headquartered in Tripoli and it aims at developing Sector the individual and the society on social, cultural, Funding from environmental and medical levels. The founders of this local, regional and international donor 26.77% Education Sector 22.36% NGO were: agencies and partners MP Mohammed Ahmad Safadi Rural Development Ahmad Mohammed Fathi Safadi and Sustainable 26.76% Mohammed Tahsin Adawi Agriculture Sector Mona Fahmi al-Saydawi Private donations 73.20% Culture Sector 9.59% Mohammed Othman Bashir Ouwaida Administrative costs 21.49% In 2004, the name of the foundation was amended by Total Revenues 100.00% Total Expenses 100.00% omitting the adjective “charitable”.

issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. POPULAR CULTURE ART, CULTURE & RELIGION | 35 POPULAR CULTURE

The book of “Listen O Rida!”

Finally, glory waved to me from behind the horizon, thanks to a coincidental book titled “Listen O Rida!”

$„'&; years old back then, asked about the color of the car that used to drop me off at school. The question passed through my brain like an electric shock ž]] ]„

He inquired about the village’s food and drink, joys and sorrows, poverty and misery and raised questions about the villagers and their habits and festivals and lifestyles. My answers came in the form of stories that were so appealing to him that he requested me to pen them down in a book. “The book lacks a title, what do you think we should title it?” I asked. “Listen O Rida”, he answered, for I used to initiate every story with this utterance.

One day, while I was editing my draft book “Name of Lebanese Towns and Villages” in Jounieh’s \ O€"„P‘„Q asked me to print them in a book. I said that book trade wasn’t exactly my cup of tea and that Rida will take care of printing the book when he grows up”

O]Q] revenues, I will give you the rest of the money.” He said. So I agreed to that.

And so, the book went to print. But shortly before its binding, the owner discovered the secret scheme plotted by the manager and compelled him undertake all the printing costs. The manager hurried to me for help and explained to me that the owner called his bluff and that he owes him LBP 2500.

I was penniless back at the time. So we carried the 3000 copies, headed for the bookshops and publication houses and tried to persuade different authors into buying the copies for LBP 2000, while I resigned to sustaining the loss of the remaining LBP 500 and the cost of the pictures that great artist Radwan Shahhal painted for me. Finally, I forced, yes I forced, Anis Kayyat’s bookshop to buy the copies. Three months later, the book was sold for LBP 9000!

The book was read by thousands of Lebanese immigrants throughout the globe. Some of them greeted

“Give up your glory complex and return to your modest Lebanese roots”, I thought to myself. As a matter of fact, my ego was boosted just enough when the Spanish Orientalist Fortias Bestiaro admired my book and translated it to Spanish after he had smelled within its covers the sweet fragrance of the Lebanese village which was pretty similar to the Spanish countryside.

issue 113 | December 2011 36 | ART, CULTURE & RELIGION DEBUNKING MYTH #52 SIMILARITY OR OPPOSITION

Myth: In romantic relationships, the opposite attracts A prevalent misconception is that while forming intimate relationships people are attracted to others who have opposite personality styles, attitudes, interests etc. Reality:In romantic relationships, the similar attracts In reality, individuals are attracted to others who are similar to them rather than different or opposite. In fact, psychological research has shown that the perceived intimacy, success, and level of satisfaction of romantic relationships are more often based on the similarities between the partners, rather than the opposition between them. Moreover, people are attracted to others who are similar to them in demographics, physical appearance, attitudes, interpersonal style, social and cultural background, personality, interests and activities preferences, and communication and social skills (Morry, 2005; Morry et al., 2006). Even similarities in smoking habits ~œ¡+;;' ]¢~+;;' someone from a different political party than theirs.

Moreover, research also support that complementary partners prefer closer interpersonal relationships than non-complementary ones, because complementary partnership allows more and more satisfying interactions (Nowicki & Manheim, 1991).  than other qualities to result in fatal attractions and break ups (Felmelee, 1998). In fact, too much dissimilarity between partners leads to more stress in the relations.

The similarity hypothesis is also found in friendships. Morry (2007) conducted two studies where he found that greater friendship satisfaction predicted greater perceived friend–self similarity for traits and behaviors. The same pattern can even be tracked in children who prefer to be friends with children who are similar to them in social status and behavioral style, and dissimilarity between them leads to dislike (Nangel et al. 2004).

One way of explaining why similarity attracts is provided by Morry et al. (2004, 2005; Morry et al., 2006). They suggested that attraction leads to perceptions of similarity between the self and partner, and the perceived †\ behaviors, and views onto close others (Morry, 2007). Intimates are perceived as similar to the self in romantic ~†‘\‹¡|+;;+

References Diane H. Felmlee (1998) “Be careful what you wish for . . . A quantitative and qualitative investigation of “fat a1 at tractions”. Personal Relationships, 5, 235-253. Etcheverry, Paul E.; Agnew, Christopher R. (2009). Similarity in cigarette smoking attracts: A prospective study of romantic partner selection by own smoking and smoker prototypes. Psychology of Addictive Behaviors, Vol 23(4), 632-643. Kofoed, E. (2009). The role of political affiliation and attraction in romantic relationships: Why can’t we all just get along. Advances in Communication Theory and Research, 2, 1-28. Morry (2007). The attraction–similarity hypothesis among cross-sex friends: Relationship satisfaction, perceived similarities, and self-serving perceptions. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, Vol. 24(1): 117–138. Morry, M. M. (2005). Relationship satisfaction as a predictor of similarity ratings: A test of the attraction–similarity hypothesis. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 22, 561–584. Morry, M. M., Kito, M., & Ortiz, L. (2006, July). How do I see you? Relationship satisfaction and perceived similarity. Talk presented at the International Association of Relationship Researchers Conference, Rethymnon, Crete, Greece. Nowicki, S., Jr., & Manheim, S. (1991). Interpersonal complementarity and time of interaction in female relationships. Journal of Research in Personality, 25, 322-333. Richard, L. S., Wakefield, J. A., & Lewak, R. (1990). Similarity of personality variables as predictors of marital satisfaction: A Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) item analysis. Personality and Individual Differences, fl, 39-43. Monsour, M. (2002). Women and men as friends: Relationships across the life span in the 21st century. Mahwah, NJ: Erlbaum.

issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. ART, CULTURE & RELIGION | 37 SEXUAL ENCOUNTERS IN THE MIDDLE EAST THE BRITISH, THE FRENCH, AND THE ARABS

Through his book, Sexual Encounters in the Middle East, beginning from the 19th (published in 1999 by Garnet Publishing Limited), Derek century (and increased in the Hopwood tried to explain and describe the contemporary 20th century). Thus, imperial Euro – Arab relations (pre-colonialism, colonialism, and post- relations changed, and Arabs colonialism) in the context of questions of sexuality which began discovering the West, actually affected the history of the Middle East. So, through and wrong ideas about tracing the contact between Europe and the Middle East from the immorality and availability early modern to the modern periods and focusing on formative of Western women started contact points, the book aimed to explore the relations between to be concluded (viewed the 2 regions through sex, sexuality, and gender. unveiled European women as Hopwood discussed topics which ranged from race to an open invitation to sexual homosexuality, to love, harem, prostitution, marriage, travel, immorality). This is what and war, in travel writing, paintings and novels together with led some to view the western sexual experiences of individuals. society as empty, devoted to material pursuits and devoid Europeans and Arabs came into direct contact when the of the spiritual aspects of the invading Arab and Berber crossed from North Africa to Spain East and saw a danger of the in 710, during the 8th century of Islam. west corrupting the east with Through this contact, the people in the East and the west shared its materialism and immorality. about each other similar inherited ideas, prejudices, tendencies, Others considered that sexual and sexual attitudes which shaped the relations and reactions relations were based on mutual between the 2 regions. respect, understanding, and greater equality. The writer approaches the background of Western prejudice toward Muslim sexual practices through tracing it back to the Through the experience in the West, some Arabs men gained prophet’ marriages. Westerners considered Prophet Muhammad their dealings with the opposite sex, others could a “man of superhuman libido” according to the various marriages not get rid of their feelings of male superiority, while others he had during his prophecy life and because of the Arab blood viewed that Arab men should recognize their defect and admit he inherited. They concluded that Muslims’ sexual excess to that the equality was not a threat to their manhood. be stemmed from the Arab temperament, Islamic laxity, and a hot climate which unduly heated the blood (p.10) and all Both the French and the British held misunderstandings of of this was compared with Christian virtues and monogomy. Islamic family life, particularly the institutions of the harem, This perception of Islam and its prophet was revealed in many polygamy, and the veil. They imagined the East as an exotic writings; “Mohammedis imposturae by William Bedwells, area with romantic longing, harems, Turkish baths. Moreover, “Bibliotheque” by Barthelemy d’Herbelots (which according the Middle East was often a substitute for sex; people such as to Edward Said enabled the West to encompass the Orient.) T.E. Lawrence and Gertrude Bell encountered sexual problems at home and used the Middle East as an escapem projecting He provided examples about soldiers’ experiences in the their sexual fantasies onto the inhabitants of the area (55-56.) †œˆwith the French who accompanied Napoleon $ \ is often portrayed in the East in on his 1798 expedition and who misbehaved badly under the sexual terms and faced by a reaction off segregation, veiling, naive assumption that local women were easily available. Later and imposing a strict code of honor. In the current time, with their violations racial attitudes during their occupation of Westerners and Arabs are getting into direct contact through Algeria (prior to 1830) where Frants Fanon, the sympathetic tourism or during wars, and into indirect contact through theorist of the Algerian struggle for independence, described media and internet. Stereotyping ideas still prevail in both, the Algeria as a weak female being raped by a brutal France Western and Arab societies, where Europeans view the Arab ~==$\earlier sexual females as sexy suppressed women who are not well treated prejudices proposed the “refoulement’ of Arabs, and thought of by Arab men, and Arabs view Western females as easy women them as sexually uncontrolled. Men were accused of orgiastic with less morality. behavior and women’s lives were governed by unacceptable norms of Muslim society (89-90). So, as human sexual relations can unite by bringing together Later the British soldiers who spent time in Egypt and their two people in an intimate relationship, it can also alienate, presence certainly did nothing to improve relationships between mislead, or separate people from different backgrounds. This the two countries. was the case in the European – Arab sexual relations which contributed to the understanding of how the two regions were After being the “observed” by the Westerns, Arabs tended to linked to each other. be the “observers” as many Arab men started to visit Europe

issue 113 | December 2011 38 | ART, CULTURE & RELIGION “ENJOYS PLAYING” “ANBAR’S TRIP”

“Anbar’s Trip” tells the story of a dog named Anbar who enjoys playing in a garden in the countryside with a boy called Tamer. Anbar’s story starts when a family buys him and moves him to the city to live. Anbar tries to escape from the luxurious and boring city life to the fun and carefree life of the countryside. The morale of the story is that money does not always bring happiness.

The book is recommended for children at the elementary level because the sentences are easy and simple and the storyline is short.

“Anbar’s trip”, part of the collection “The Loved Adventures”, is retold by Yacoub Al-Sharooni and published by “Maktabat Lobnan” in Beirut. This collection includes:

Meshmesh and Folfola At the Amusement Park The Flying Umbrella Arnoob and Arnban The Departure of the Rabbits The Brave Dragon The Adventurous Farfour Batoot and Farfar and The Trip Day among others.

issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. LEBANON FAMILIES ART, CULTURE & RELIGION | 39 HAYMOUR FAMILIES Sunni in Beqa’a

Origin This family originates from the tribe of Himyar whose members were named “al-Mashayekh”. The tribe is named after Himyar Bin Saba’ and considered @ Islam. The tribe stood by Caliph Abu Bakr al-Siddiq in his wars against ¢] 40 men headed from the Arabian Peninsula (Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Zgharta and the current Gulf countries) to the Beqa’a in the year 1530. Balamand Roads A‘arjes Afterwards, they advanced to Qeb Elias, killed the Hanashite Ehden Becharre rulers there and replaced them. Later, they killed around 40 The Cedars Batroun Hadet Hasroun people of Bani al-Mir in Lala-Beqa’a, took their place, dispersed Ras Baalbeck Deir el Ahmar in the Beqa’a valley and held their grip on it as of 1610. Maqne Qasr el-Banat

Hadath Some claim that the family originated from the Arabs of the Jbail Iaat Baalbeck \\K‘\ Jounieh Ghazir Beqa’a and move to Ras Beirut. However, Prince Ezzedine Niha al-Tanoukhi forbid them from settling in Beirut and drove BEIRUT Zahle them back to Beqa’a in the beginning of 1472. Baabda Shtaura Aley Dahr el-Baidar Bhamdoun " Anjar Deir el-Qamar Meshref Beiteddine over the Beqa’a, we mention: Moukhtara Qaraoun Lake Yanta Suleiman Haymour who took rule over Beqa’a from Saida Jezzine Fakhr Eddine al-Miani and was commissioned to Libbaya Aiha restore the fortress of Qeb Elias Sheikh Kenaan Bin Haymour: he was killed in Hasbaya 1750 by Rajab Basha on the same day the latter Nabatiye Marjayoun

entered al-Sham as a Wali. Beaufort Castle Sheikh Melhem Haymour: he was the last and ‘\ for quite a while at the era of Emir Bashir Al- Shihabi (1788-1840). He never made a public appearance except with the drum beats and guards heralding his arrival. He was located in Jeb Jennine. He established an advisory council to consult regarding the reforms he was making. Distribution ‘\ There are around 570 members of the Haymour family, all of whom belonging to the Sunni confession. Jeb Jennine (Western Beqa’a): 315 members Qaraoun (Western Beqa’a): 120 members Lala (Western Beqa’a): 70 members Majdal Anjar (Zahle): 45 members Hawsh Zar’ani (Zahle): 20 members

issue 113 | December 2011 40 | ART, CULTURE & RELIGION DISCOVER LEBANON

JAJ and a s member ikhtiyariah body. Trablous

Balamand Zgharta Roads A‘arjes Town of cedar trees and Educational institutions: There Ehden Becharre The Cedars was a unisex public school for Batroun Hadet Hasroun Ras Baalbeck patriarchs  Deir el Ahmar Maqne both elementary and intermediate Jaj Qasr el-Banat Jbail Hadath Iaat Baalbeck cycles, but the decreasing number Jounieh Ghazir

Etymology: In his book “Name of Lebanese Towns of students (24 students and 14 Niha BEIRUT Zahle Baabda Shtaura and Villages”, Aniss Freiha mentions that the origin teachers in the scholarly year Aley Dahr el-Baidar Bhamdoun Anjar

Deir el-Qamar of the name Jaj dates back to the Syriac and Hebrew 1997-1998) forced the school Meshref Beiteddine Moukhtara word “gag” which means the summit, the crest and the to shut down. There is also Qaraoun Lake Yanta Saida Jezzine rooftop. The town was probably given the name “Jaj” the Cedar’s Sports Club. Libbaya Aiha

Hasbaya for its high altitude. Nabatiye Marjayoun Economic activities Location: Jaj is located in the Qada’a of Jbeil in the To earn their living, the Mount Lebanon Mohafaza at an altitude of 1220m people of Jaj seek state jobs above sea level. The village lies 65 km from Beirut in the army and the Internal Security Forces. They also and 25 km from the Qada’a center in Jbeil. It spreads depend on local commercial businesses and employment across 1169 hectares. in the Aluminium and Iron factories. The few shops spread Jaj may be reached through two different roadways: across Jaj supply the villagers with the provisions and the Jbeil- Amshit- Lehfed or Batroun- Douma- Bshe’li. basic commodities they need. The town’s economy also depends on agriculture of apples namely. Population: The number of registered inhabitants at the village’s Personal Status Register is estimated at 3400, Archeological sites: Several archeological with the majority belonging to the Maronite confession. landmarks were found in Jaj. Of these landmarks are the There are around 200 houses in the village and around remnants of the Zahra temple which dates back to the 20 commercial shops. The permanent residents of the era of Roman Emperor Arianos, in addition to ancient village are estimated by a few hundreds only. temple pillars, a church and Mard Doumit monastery.

Voters: In the year 2000, the number of voters was Natural sites: Jaj gained popularity for its Cedar 2,095 of whom 1,227 cast their ballots. This number forest which lies 4 Km from the town and consists increased to 2,275 in 2005 of whom 1,515 cast their of around 2000 Cedar trees. History books claim that ballots. In 2009, the number reached 2,419 with 1,575 the Phoenician ships and the temple of Suleiman were casting their ballots. They are distributed according to made up of the town’s Cedar timber. the following families: Abboud: 317, Samrani: 209, Khoury: 177, Farhat: Challenges: The people of Jaj suffer from several 111, Shahine: 85, Meri’i: 57, Ounaissi: 83, Sarkiss: problems, familiar to all Lebanese villages, like a 72, Mozaya: 23, Andraous: 75, Suleiman: 54, lack of electricity and an inadequate sewage system Hayek: 46, Hachem: 50, Issa: 28, Ashqouti: 24, since the grid is incomplete and there’s a huge water Abdallah: 5, Youhanna: 20, Bchara: 18, Fransis: shortage. The immigration to foreign countries or to 38, Sfeir: 28, Aqiqi: 22, Chdid: 31, Abd el-Nour: 21, neighboring towns and villages such as Batroun is Kiwan: 18, Awwad: 20, Karam: 18, Ghandour: 6, another problem in this village whose long and rocky Rophael: 13, Rouhana: 13, Chhadeh: 9, Mouawad: route can be shortened to 4 Km if connected to Amshit- 15, Nassar: 11, Saad: 9 Mayfouq highway. The villagers are also claiming a linking route between the town and the Cedar forest. Local authorities: Jaj municipality was established by virtue of decree No. 251, dated February 20, 1964 and Patriarchs and Bishops from Jaj issued by then Interior Minister, Kamal Jumblat. The Jaj was widely known for its Maronite patriarchs (3 municipal council is currently composed of 15 members, patriarchs) and bishops (3 bishops). The patriarchs after it was 8, and headed by Fawzi Ashqouti. Its share in whose patriarchal term lasted 86 years are: the independent municipal fund was LBP 125,7 million Patriarch Youhanna el- Jaji (1239-1245) in 2008 and increased to 168,2 in 2009. the municipality Patriarch Daoud (1367-1404) has two mukhtars, Bchara Abboud and Shaker Andraous Patriarch Youhanna VIII el-Jaji (1404-1445)

issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. SYRIAN ACCUSATIONS AGAINST FUTURE MOVEMENT MEDIA|41 SYRIAN ACCUSATIONS AGAINST FUTURE MOVEMENT FACT OR FABLE!!

ollowing the recent events in Syria, a three-member terrorist cell appeared on the Syrian state-run television and flung accusations of funding and instigation at the Future Movement MP “Jamal Jarrah.” The accusations portrayed Fthe Future Movement as willing to meddle in the Syrian security. The Syrian ambassador to Lebanon called on the competent Lebanese authorities to take action in that respect until the final completion of the file at a later stage.

Statements upholding the accusations: thinking back of Houssam Houssam and how it turned out Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc:O{ he and Jarjoura were connected to the Future Movement, media has aired an example of the dubious involvement I wonder whether the sudden silence of the movement of the Future Movement in the Syrian internal affairs. and its appeal to Hezbollah is a bet on the collapse of The denial voiced by the persons in question did not the regime or an attempt to deepen the ties (…).” (An- convince anybody and people should make sure their Nashra 18-4-2011) P~K Nashra 14-4-2011) Statements against the accusations: Dory Chamoun: “The Lebanese have become familiar Elie Skaff: “we are not taken aback by anything. All is with all these groundless accusations and fabrications. possible. The current discord has divided the Lebanese, Each time the Syrian regime is driven into a corner, it slammed their unity and leaded us to where we are comes up with a new Houssam Houssam and persuades today. Israel is the root of the problem and it shall not \ rest until it breaks us up because its main aim is to stir and delude the Syrians into believing that the unrest quarrels among people.”(An-Nashra 15-4-2011) is stirred by foreign powers. We do not believe such demeanors anymore and the Syrian regime had better Osama Saad: “it is commonly known that the Future give careful consideration to the needs of its people and Movement is implicated in the American attack that is quit these foolish banalities because it is unreasonable targeting the Arab world. This is ascertained through and impossible that the Lebanese meddle in the internal Wikileaks documents as well as the Future Movement affairs of another country, be it Syria or anyone else.” statements. However, the hazards are the Future (An-Nashra 15-4-2011) Movement switches its opposing stand to Syria and the P~Kš&_K[K+;&& Mustafa Alloush: “The Syrian accusations against MP Jamal Jarrah are fabricated and far from true. We Marwan Fares: “A conspiracy is being woven against are ready to face the judiciary save that he provides Syria for its support of the resistance in Lebanon, full and plain evidence that respect the legal frames of Palestine and Iraq. The Future Movement and MP the Ministry of Justice. The Syrian accusations are an Jarrah are feeding this conspiracy through the provision attempt to escape from reality. They want to hold the of weapons and money, but they will fail to defeat Syria \ and we will resist against them to secure the protection couldn’t blame it on anyone but the Future Movement..” of both Lebanon and Syria.” (An-Nashra 17-4-2011) (An-Nashra 16-4-2011)

Ghazi Aridi:O] Antoine Zahra: “If the Future Movement or MP to the Lebanese authorities to follow up on this Jamal Jarrah were able of fomenting the current unrest matter within the legal and constitutional frames. The in Syria, then all the solidarity they pretend to have is a authorities must devote full consideration to this subject myth. The accusation held against Mr. Jarrah is irrational €K{ and does not fall under the judicial agreements signed \€{ between Lebanon and Syria.”(An-Nashra 14-4-2011) as the relationship between the two countries.” (An- Nashra 17-4-2011) Samir Geagea: “the accusations fabricated by Syria against Mr. Jarrah won’t lead anywhere because we are Suleiman Frangieh: “If it were 2005, I would have used to this kind of practices which go beyond mere believed that the accusations were fabricated, but political purposes.” (An-Nashra 16-4-2011)

issue 113 | December 2011 42|MEDIA OCTOBER 2011 TIMELINE MIKATI: “THE TRIBUNAL WILL PROCEED WITH OR WITHOUT LEBANON’S FUNDING”

October 3 the anti-Assad movement in Lebanon, residents take to streets with MPs Sami Death of Hassan Wehbi, former an implementing Resolution 1701. and Nadim Gmayyel to protest the member of the Syrian Social Nationalist Syrian President Bashar Assad installation of high voltage electricity lines Party, and accused of murdering Maya receives a Lebanese political delegation Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri Bashir Gemayel, in 1980, in a car consisting of former minister Abd meets with President of the Republic on bombing that targeted her father. Hassan Rahim Mrad, Lebanese Popular his trip to Armenia and receives a honorary Wehbi was beaten to death by Syrian Conference head Ahmad Shatila and doctorate from The Armenian State regime opponents in Hamah. K† † University of Economics in Yerevan. Berri “The stances of Patriarch al-Rai Mustfa Hamdan. reported that Armenians have allegiance to on the Syrian regime and Hezbollah Hezbollah Secretary General, Lebanon more than anyone else. weapons are a deadly mistake”, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah receive Minister Greek Orthodox Patriarch Ignatius MP Dori Chamoun told Al-Liwaa of Energy and Water Jobran Bassil IV Hazim receives a Hezbollah newspaper, stressing that he refuses that Minister of Finance Muhammad delegation at the patriarchate Balamand each confession chooses its deputies. Safadi refers the 2012 draft budget to Following his visit to Bishop Elias Patriarch al-Rai on his way to the the cabinet. The draft budget proposed Awde, MP Marwan Hamadeh attacks United States: “it is my duty to visit a 12% VAT hike and increased the tax General Michel Aoun saying: “this all our people and parishes in Syria, on deposit interest rates to 8%. Budget man who brought wreckage to Lebanon Jordan, Cyprus and the Holy land, and I €\@ +&;*^ shall head to Iraq next month.” +'*X money he stole and transferred to Paris, Hezbollah Secretary General, Minister Safadi asserted that the budget and the elections are corrupt as long as Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, receives MP covers all Lebanon’s international weapons are dominating. Suleiman Frangieh. commitments. Speaker Nabih Berri continues his { October 7 trip to Iran and meets with President the Lebanese town of Arsal with tanks Prime Minister Najib Mikati to the Ahmadinijad. National Audio-Visual Media Council: Former MP Elie Skaff following retreating from the town. “the tribunal shall continue its progress his meeting with Marada delegations: In his memoirs of July war, with or without Lebanon’s share of the O Minister Ali Hassan Khalil reveals that funding.” for presidency.” Hezbollah Secretary General’s political Syrian army kills a Syrian national advisor, Hajj Hussein Khalil, relayed to while he was crossing from Arsal to Syria. October 4 him the death of the two Israeli soldiers Greek Orthodox Patriarch Ignatius President Michel Suleiman meets held captive by Hezbollah during an IV Hazim meets in Balamand with the with former minister Elias Murr in Israeli raid on Lebanon contrarily to all Syrian Ambassador to Lebanon Ali Baabda after a 10 month rift. news claiming that the captives died of Abdul Karim Ali. Speaker Nabih Berri in Armenia their injuries during the kidnapping. UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Micheal Williams, reports Samir Geagea during a phone call October 6 that the ESCWA is under serious threat with the annual Lebanese Forces party Cabinet appoints Dr. Adnan and the attackers of the international conference in North America: “the law Sayyed Hussein as President of the forces are still in Lebanon that is being tailored right now is that of € ` A clash in the Vehicle Inspection proportionality and this law is acceptable term and decides to form a ministerial center in Hadath results in 7 injured people committee tasked with amending October 5 the LU teachers’ wages and granting October 8 The American ambassador to 4 grades for elementary teachers at The secretariat of the Lady of Lebanon Mora Conelli visits the public school and teachers at vocational the Mountain Gathering, holds a press Minister of Defense Fares Ghosn and training schools. Some ministers conference at the Press Club, declaring underlines the importance accorded by walked in wearing T-shirts urging that Regency Palace Hotel- Adma will the US to the role of the Lebanese Army everyone to vote for Jeita Grotto. be hosting the 8th gathering which will { Mansouriyeh and Ain Saadeh cover the “Role of Christians in Arab issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. OCTOBER 2011 TIMELINE MEDIA|43 Spring” on October 23, 2011. October 12 {$€ STL Appeal Chamber urges its A Cabinet session at the Grand wondering how Prime Minister Najib prosecutor to hand General Jamil Serail approves the decision to raise Mikati would be able to keep his vows sayyed all witness statements swiftly, the minimum wage to LBP 700,000, in this concern. Seniora insists that the provided that the disclosure does not and grant a LBP 200,000 pay raise for funding is a must. menace anybody. 1 million earners and LBP 300,000 for Sheikh Hassan Mshaymesh Islamist Groups in Tripoli stage a those who earn up to LBP 1.8 million, handed over to Lebanese authorities protest in support of the Syrian people while increasing transportation allowance after his arrest in Syria under charges of and national council. The demonstrators from LBP 8000 to LBP 10,000 a day and cooperation with Israel. called for the dismissal of the Syrian education allowance from LBP 1 million Ambassador to Lebanon, while another to LBP 1.5 million. The GLC suspends the October 15 anti-Assad protest was staged in Saida. strike while Economic Committees reject Syria’s Ambassador to Lebanon the raise. Ali Abdel-Karim Ali issues a complaint October 10 Hezbollah Secretary General to Foreign Affairs Minister Adnan Patriarch Mar Bechara Boutros al- Sayyed Hasan Nasrallah receives Mansour about the allegations of general Rahi in the US: “the Patriarch follows former Prime Minister Omar Karami director of the Lebanese Internal Security no party and holds no color except the and his son in addition to Interior „{œ Lebanese colors and the Christians are Minister Marwan Charbel involved in kidnapping Shibli Al-Aisami not a minority in the East” Lebanese Forces’ executive #„ MP Walid Jumblat attends oath- committee chief, Samir Geagea receives provide evidence. swearing ceremony for 40 youths at the Egyptian Ambassador to Lebanon, MP Walid Jumblat told Al-Manar the Choueifat Social Hall, and urges Muhammad Mostafa Tawfeeq and TV that he is staying with the majority the new PSP adherents to refrain from says: “if only Hezbollah could leave although he’s voting for the funding of the the Lebanese in peace and let the state STL. Jumblat stressed his good relations General Security Director, Gen. exercise its power with Hezbollah and criticized the Syrian Abbas Ibrahim, visits Syria to covey regime noting that the negotiations are Suleiman’s condolences to Syrian October 13 ongoing with Syria through Minister Mufti Badr Hassoun Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri Ghazi Aridi and General Mohammed calls for the adoption of an annual food Nassif. He added that he backs the October 11 price index in the light of which salaries equation of people, army and resistance, Interior Minister Marwan Charbel can be amended noting that Hezbollah must keep in mind holds a press conference to outline the Syrian President Bashar Assad meets the government. new parliamentary draft law based on with a Syrian Social Nationalist Party President of the Republic of Ireland proportionality, open lists, two optional delegation chaired by MP Asaad Hardan € votes, 30% women’s quota and 10 to 14 The March 14 General Secretariat Greece Foreign Minister Stavros electoral districts. urges the government to refer Syrian Lambrinidis pays visits to the President, Election of Judge David incursions into Lebanese territory to Premier and Parliament Speaker as well Baragwanath as president of the STL international forums. as Foreign Minister and former Prime and successor of Judge Antonio Cassese Lebanese Army Intelligence arrests Minister Fouad Seniora who resigned due to health reasons two individuals in Beqa’a, a Lebanese The Judicial Council convenes to Economic Committees voice and a Syrian, for attempting to purchase discuss the kidnapping of Imam Musa their rejection of the wage hikes after and smuggle weapons to Syria. al-Sadr and decides to rule against the meeting President Suleiman and the €@†‹ General Labor Confederation threatens October 14 November 18. to proceed with Wednesday’s planned MP Walid Jumblat visits strike if their demands were not met. Hezbollah Secretary General Sayyed October 17 Minister of Foreign Affairs Adnan Hasan Nassrallah. On his trip to Egypt, President Mansour reports that the UN urged Prime Minister Najib Mikati Amine Gemayel meets with Anba the Ministry on September 28, 2010, approves the appointment of retired Shnouba, the Secretary General of the to cover its 2011 funding share for Brigadier Ibrahim Bashir as secretary Arab League Nabil al-Arabim, Qatar the STL which increased by 5 million general for the Higher Relief Committee. Prime Minister Hamad Bin Jassem and Euros since last year. Karami receives Fouad Seniora Al-Azhar Sheikh. at his residence in Beirut and reports A young Syrian delegation meets

issue 113 | December 2011 44|MEDIA OCTOBER 2011 TIMELINE

€ The Cabinet approves oil and Middle-Eastern religious summit. General Michel Aoun, MP Suleiman gas exploration works and forms a Interior Minister Marwan Charbel Frangieh and MP Talal Arslan and committee chaired by Mikati to follow asserts from France that the government thanks them for supporting Syria. up on this issue Wiam Wahhab holds a ceremony Military Prosecutor Judge against political assassination. In reply in Jahlieh on the occasion of laying Sakr Sakr charges Sheikh Hassan to a question asked by Interior French the cornerstone of Salman al-Farisi Mshaymesh for collaboration with Minister over the weapons brought by Hospital in Deir Dourit- Shouf, in the Israel after Syria handed him over to Hezbollah to Lebanon, Charbel said: presence of Iranian Ambassador to Lebanese authorities “Hezbollah needs no more weapons as Lebanon Gadanfar Roken Abadi, and MP Khaled Daher told the there’s no more room to stock it” the absence of MPs Walid Jumblat Central News Agency that Hezbollah and Talal Arslan. Wahhab restated that is recruiting 400 members to take over October 23 {$€ Tripoli and that he might hit the streets Death of STL former President do it from his own pocket. to confront Hezbollah if need be Antonio Cassese at his home in Italy The Kurds stage protests, both after a long battle with cancer supportive and opposing to the Syrian October 21 The Lady of the Mountain regime, in front of the Syrian Embassy MP Suleiman Frangieh reports to gathering convenes its scheduled in Beirut. the L.B.C that Saad Hariri told him that meeting at the Regency Palace Hotel President Bashar Assad is a citim and it in the presence of March 14 Christians October 18 was Iran who murdered his father. and the absence of the Phalanges Party. President Michel Suleiman Ecomomic committees convene The meeting reiterated support for sponsors the launching of the national in Phonecia Hotel and reiterate the Arab Revolutions and asserted that program to support the poorest families necessity of dialogue over wage hikes Christians’ survival depends mainly on in the presence of Speaker, Premier and noting their unwillingness to comply a number of ministers with the Cabinet’s decision. regimes’ immunity. Parliament’s joint committees Minister of Finance Mohammad  pledge to issue all decrees on the laws Safadi projects during a Chamber of of the director general of the Ministry authorizing oil and gas exploration Commerce seminar that public debt will of the Displaced Haitham Joumaa and before then end of the year hit USD 60 billion by the end of 2011. #‘K\€ Tripoli religious scholars and MPs A delegation of Islamic Jama’a to look into the case of Imam Al-Sadr. call for the demilitarization of the city chaired by Azzam Ayyoubi visits The Mekdad family blocks roads at Hezbollah and meets with head of its the southern suburb in protest for the arrest October 19 politburo Ibrahim Amine Sayyed of a family member who was building a The Parliament convenes and @† house on disputed territory in Lassa- Jbeil. renews old appointments within it time with General Jamil Sayyed at the The Lebanese Communist Party during a 20 minute session Grand Serail celebrates its 87th anniversary at MP Michel Aoun visits former STL Appeals Chamber will hold on Cinema Versailles in Hamra in the Prime Minister Omar Karameh at November 11, 2011 a public hearing to presence of Kadri Jamil, representative his residence in Beirut and holds determine a date for the trials in absentia. of the local Syrian opposition. discussions with him over the budget, ‘Œ O‹ the salaries and the status quo. authoritarian regimes and we are looking October 25 “The decision of political forward to the Syrian revolution” In his speech at the opening assassination targeting Saad Hariri was session of the conference of the Union taken by Bashar Assad and Hassan October 22 of Arab Constitutional Courts and Nasrallah”, Ahmad Hariri told An- Hezbollah’s telecom network Councils, President Michel Suleiman Nahar. back to stage, and Tarshish residents highlights the necessity of granting clash with Hezbollah members while the Constitutional Council the right to October 20 attempting to install the network interpret constitution and the need for a A Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc Maronite Patriarch Mar Bechara fair parliamentary law. delegation headed by MP Mohammad Boutros al-Rai meets with the UN Hezbollah Secretary General Raad heads for Moscow to meet Secretary General in New York Ban Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah reiterates his †  Ki Moon and highlights the ongoing disapproval of STL funding and calls on Affairs and the Doma Council. efforts towards the formation of a issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. OCTOBER 2011 TIMELINE MEDIA|45 it himself, noting that the NATO will not October 27 individuals who did not deserve it intervene in Syria in protection of Israel. President Michel Suleiman arrives in A Hezbollah delegation headed Human Rights Parliamentary KSA at the head of a delegation consisting by MP Mohammad Raad visits Commission convenes a session (in of former President Amine Gemayel and a General Michel Aoun and stresses that record attendance of 40 MPs) earmarked “there is no rift with the Free Patriotic by tumultuous verbal confrontations to offer condolences over the death of Movement.” between MPs Ahmad Fatfat and Ali Crown Prince Sultan Abdul Aziz. Grand Mufti Sheikh Muhammad Ammar. Attorney General Said Mirza The Saudi Embassy in Beirut Rashid Qabbani orders funeral prayers # accepts the condolences of the Prime for Crown Prince Sultan Bin Abdul Minister, the Iranian Ambassador and Aziz in Lebanon’s mosques.  a Hezbollah delegation for the death of Rumors about mines planted by the kidnapping of Chebli Oussaymi, Crown Prince Sultan Bin Abdul-Aziz. the Syrian troops along the northern Joseph Sader and the Jassem brothers are A delegation including 30 border with Lebanon incomplete, contrary the statements of members of the Future Movement Three Syrians kidnapped in Bir „ and the March 14 forces arrives in Hassan and released two days later. The US Ambassador to Lebanon Maura Saudi Arabia to pay condolences over Syrians reported that they were taken in Connelly meets with General Michel the death of Crown Prince Sultan Bin a robbery attempt. Aoun and warns of serious repercussions Abdul-Aziz and attends a luncheon should Lebanon fail to live up to its held by Saad Hariri who stressed that October 31 commitment towards the STL his presence abroad is due to security Maronite Patriarch Mar Bechara circumstances and stated that nobody’s Boutros Al-Rai returns from Rome October 26 over the tribunal and Hezbollah is not after his US tour and heads for Iraq on Adjournment of Tuesday Cabinet stronger than Milosovich noting that a pastoral visit. Al-Rai reported that the session after a ministerial delegation the Future Movement does not hide its solution for Hezbollah’s weapons isn’t @†\{ total support of the Syrian revolution. down to the Lebanese but has become Arabia to pay condolences over the death Another delegation headed by MP an international case, and denied of Crown Prince Sultan Bin Abdul-Aziz Walid Jumblat visits Al-Riyadh for hearing of the Lady of the Mountain Future Movement Secretary the same purpose. gathering. ‹ ‘ K{ President Amine Gemayyel visits newspaper: “Mikati is a traitor and we October 28 Turkey and meets with the Minister do not trust his choices and agenda” and The Cabinet approves the salaries of Foreign Affairs who asserts that added that “communication channels of the LU teachers and decides to form € are open with Taymour Jumblat and a committee headed by Prime Minister On a visit to Koura, General Michel Jumblat did not stab us in the back.” Najib Mikati to reconsider the wage hike Aoun asserts that the 2013 elections are Deputy Assistant Secretary of after it was rejected by the Shura Council. the last ditch chance before the collapse State for Near Eastern Affairs Jake The Shura Council rejects the The Islamic Gama’a holds in Wallace arrives in Beirut and meets with wage increase decree draft proposed by Tripoli a festival condemning the President, Parliament Speaker, Premier the Cabinet. practices of the Syrian regime. , and former Central Bank Governor The European Commissioner Mohammad Shatah, stressing that for Enlargement and European November 1 funding the STL is a must. Wallace’s Neighborhood Policy visits Lebanon Interior Minister Marwan visit was considered a warning of the Charbel attends a joint parliamentary  means that allow Lebanon to abide by Defense, Interior, Municipal affairs be incurred upon Lebanon should the international resolutions. commission hearing to discuss the kidnapping of Joseph Sader and After meeting with the parties October 29 disappearance of Shibli Al-Aissami concerned with Lassa’s real-estate President Michel Suleiman signs a and the Jasem brothers. \ ] † † A dispute between Interior Minister Charbel suggests a new judiciary ranked lieutenant colonel and below, Marwan Charbel and MP Nabil Nicolas mechanism to specify Lassa’s real estates. sidestepping Col. Wissam Hasan’s after the latter accused the Internal Security The STL appoints 8 attorneys promotion to brigadier general. The Forces of becoming a militia, and Minister to defend the four accused in Hariri’s president also signs a decree withdrawing Charbel refers Nicolas’ statements to the murder. the Lebanese nationality from 200 ‹

issue 113 | December 2011 46|ARAB WORLD FOCUS SHURA COUNCIL ELECTIONS SHURA COUNCIL ELECTIONS IN THE SULTANATE OF OMAN: WIDER PARTICIPATION

mani voters headed to ballot boxes on October 15, 2010 to participate in the Shura Council’s 7th term elections (2011-2015). The elections fostered public participation and offered Omanis an Oopportunity to make their voice heard and have a say in the decision-making of their country, noting that Oman was a frontrunner in taking such democratic moves in the Gulf region.

Overview GCC countries which held the elections on October The Omani Shura Council was established in 1991 by 8, 2011. 1,133 candidates including 77 women ran virtue of a Sultani Decree issued by Sultan Qaboos Bin for election this year compared to 631 candidates Said. The Council exercises an advisory authority and including 21 women in 2007 and an increase was has no legislative or supervisory power. The electoral witnessed in voters’ participation which rose from system has evolved over the years granting 21 year old 62.7% in to 76% this year. Khaled al-Mawali won as Omani citizens the right to cast their votes after this the Shura Council Chairman, Salim Al Ka’abi as the privilege was restricted only to the Sheikhs and Lords |K†žali as the whose number does not exceed 100 in every district. second Deputy Chairman in addition to 27 members In 1994, only women in Muscat had the right to vote re-elected for another term. and stand as candidates, but the right expanded in 1997 to include all women in all Governorates. Furthermore, Governorates, districts and number of seats Table 1 the members who were entitled to a one-time term Number of renewal, were granted the right to run as candidates and Governorates districts Number of seats assume membership for several times in 2003, noting 11 (Nuamah bint Jamayel bin Farhan bin Mubarak Al that the council’s term was extended from 3 to 4 years. Muscat 6 Busaidiyah was the only woman candidate who The 84-member Shura Council is elected by majority vote won) in the 9 Omani Governorates which are divided into 61 Batiniyya 12 20 districts. Each of districts whose population exceeds 30 Musandam 4 4 thousand people (23 districts) is given two seats against Al-Buraymi 3 4 1 seat for every district having a smaller population (38 Ad-Dahirah 3 4 districts). All registered Omani voters must register their Ad-Dakhiliyah 8 12 personal IDs online before the elections. Al Sharqiyah 11 14 Al Wusta 4 4 The Shura Council candidate should meet the Dhofar 10 11 following conditions: Total 61 84 Hold the Omani nationality Be not less than 30 years old Have no criminal record Jurisdiction expansion Have a certain level of education Following 2011 elections, Sultan Qabous Bin Said expanded the jurisdiction of the Council of Oman, Shura Council candidacy applications were to be including both Shura council and state council, and submitted between January 22 and February 2, i.e. gave it the right to propose draft laws and have a say around 8 months ahead of the elections. in the developmental plans, the annual budget and the economic agreements. He also granted the Shura Elections 2011 Council the authority to elect rather than appoint The number of registered voters rose from 388,684 in a Chairman and to interrogate ministers upon the 2007 to 522,093 in 2011. About 105 election centers request of no less than 15 members. were set up in Oman, in addition to another 6 in the issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. PRICES |47 REAL ESTATE PRICES- OCTOBER 2011

Prices of some apartments sold in October Table 2 he stagnation in real estate markets will 2011 continue to linger until the emergence of new Region Area m2 Price USD USD/m2 developments in Lebanon and the region. It is T Beirut forecast that real estate prices will maintain stable levels regardless of the political or economic crises Tarik al-Jadida that may erupt. The situation in October differed (Beirut Arab 120 198,000 1,650 slightly from the one in the past few months in terms University) of passivity and stability in prices except for the Tarik al-Jadida 145 319,000 2,200 slight price increase witnessed in September. Achrafieh (Sioufi) 250 525,000 2,100 Achrafieh (Rizk) 160 432,000 2,700 Tables 1 and 2 list the prices of a number of estates and Basta al-Tahta 170 442,000 2,600 apartments sold in September 2011 Ramlet Baida 300 1,110,000 3,700 Verdun 270 864,000 3,200 Prices of some estates sold in October 2011 Table 1 Ain Tini 250 1,087,500 4,350 Region Area m2 Price USD USD/m2 Solidere (Marina) 380 1,824,000 4,800 Beirut Solidere (Saifi) 200 1,420,000 7,100 Mdawwar 370 2,220,000 6000 Clemenceau 175 542,500 3,100 Ashrafieh (Hotel Dieu) 350 1,785,000 5,100 Baabda Sodeco 930 10,230,000 11,000 Hazmieh (Mar Taqla) 200 440,000 1,650 Baabda Hazmieh (Mar Taqla) 380 950,000 2,500 Hazmieh 2,100 2,100,000 1000 Baabda 210 546,000 2,600 Loueizi 250 425,000 1,700 Baabda (Atonine 480 427,200 890 Institute) Mrayjeh 120 138,000 1,150 Matn Haret Hreik 200 360,000 1,800 Baabdat 1,020 255,000 250 Matn Broumana 1,500 900,000 600 Antelias 160 200,000 1,250 Beit Mery 900 495,000 550 Sin al-Fil 200 364,000 1,820 A’aley Broumana 160 232,000 1,450 Souk el-Gharb 1,800 1,080,000 600 Dekwaneh 180 261,000 1,450 Aramoun 2,700 972,000 360 Burj Hammoud 150 207,000 1,380 Keserouane Awkar (embassy) 200 330,000 1,650 Faraya 1,250 662,500 530 Beit Mery 180 288,000 1,600 Adma 1,300 2,600,000 2,000 A’aley Faytroun 1,150 172,500 150 Doha Aramoun 170 212,500 1,250 Source: Information International- October 2011 Bshamoun 150 225,000 1,500 Khaldeh 210 367,500 1,750 Doha Hoss 200 360,000 1,800 Aramoun 150 157,500 1,050 There were 44,093 real estate transactions, Keserouane estimated at USD 4.5 billion, since the beginning of Adonis 150 165,000 1,100 this year until the end of July, compared to 54,099 Sahel Alma 140 266,000 1,900 transactions at roughly USD 5.6 billion in the same Ballouneh 120 144,000 1,200 period last year, which suggests a drop by 18.5% in Adma 200 320,000 1,600 transactions and 19.6% in value. Yasou’ el-Malak 190 209,000 1,100 Source: Information International- October 2011

issue 113 | December 2011 48| PRICES FOOD PRICES: OCTOBER 2011

f the 100 food products we survey every month, 19 items witnessed a price increase, 12 items experienced a slight decrease, while the remaining 69 maintained steady prices as illustrated Oin Table 1. This stability is likely to change in the few coming months as a natural consequence of the salary hike and the increased demand at the end of the year. However, it would be early to forecast the prices in 2012 before the manifestation of local and regional developments, particularly those pertaining to the economic crisis in the Euro Zone which might drastically affect our market given the large quantities we export from Europe.

Price of products during October 2011 (in LBP) Table 1 Price of products during October 2011 (in LBP) Table 1 Prices Prices Prices Prices beginning beginning of % of beginning beginning of % of Item and brand of October November price Item and brand of October November price 2011 2011 change 2011 2011 change Oil Smeds cheese (400 g) 4,450 4,450 0 Afia corn oil (3.5 liters) 16,950 16,950 0 Picon cheese (360 g) 3,850 3,850 0 Mazola corn oil (3.5 Picon cheese (160 g) 1,950 1,950 0 liters) 17,250 17,250 0 Double-crème cheese 8,100 8,900 +9.8 Mazola corn oil (1.8 8,250 8,250 0 (1 kg) liters) Fresh country cheese Slim corn oil (2 liters) 8,500 8,500 0 (1 kg) 11,000 10,000 -9 Wesson corn oil (2 Khashkawan cheese liters) 8,500 8,500 0 (1 kg) 12,500 12,500 0 Ghandour soya oil (3.8 15,250 15,750 +3.2 Lurpak butter (200 g) 2,750 2,750 0 liters) Tatra butter (200 g) 2,750 2,750 0 Alfa corn oil (4 liters) 15,500 16,500 +6.4 Al-Maalaqtain 8,000 8,000 0 Al-Wadi Olive Oil (1/2 7,000 7,000 0 margarine (2 kg) liters) Al-Baqara al-Haloub Ketchup and Sauces margarine (2kg) 35,000 35,000 0 Libby’s Ketchup (567g) 1,500 1,500 0 Vegetaline margarine 16,850 16,850 0 Extra Ketchup (340 g) 980 1000 +2 (2 kg) Nido full cream milk Extra Ketchup (2.2 kg) 5,500 5,500 0 (bag) (2,250 g) 21,850 21,850 0 Dolly’s Mayonnaise 3,950 4,250 +7.6 Nido full cream milk (500 ml) (2,500 g) 26,250 26,250 0 Al-Wadi Mayonnaise 4,500 4,500 0 Tatra full cream milk (500 ml) (1,800 g) 20,100 20,100 0 Al-Bsat Tahina (900 g) 6,860 6,860 0 Cereals Al-Bsat Tahina (450 g) 3,850 3,850 0 Khater white lentils Taous tomato sauce (1 kg) 3,750 3,750 0 (70g) 770 770 0 Khater chick-peas fahli 3,650 5000 +37 Taous tomato sauce 3,425 3,425 0 (1 kg) (425 g) Khater beans (1 kg) 1,900 1,900 0 Tala tomato sauce (675g) 3,250 3,250 0 Peeled wheat (1 kg) 2000 1,750 -12.5 Pineal Lima Bean (1 Dairy Products kg) 3,850 3,850 0 Candia full cream milk 2,450 2,450 0 Brown Fine Burgul (1 (1 liter) kg) 2,000 1,750 -12,5 Candia full cream yoghurt (1 kg) 3,250 3,100 -4.6 Egyptian rice (1 kg) 1,750 1,750 0 Bonjus labneh (1 kg) 4,250 4,250 0 American rice (1 kg) 1,750 2000 +14.2 Taanayel labneh (500 g) 5,800 5,450 -6 Italian rice (1 kg) 2,500 2,800 +12 Al-Wadi Hommos Candia labneh (500 g) 5,100 5000 -1.9 Tahina (380 g) 1,450 1,450 0 Taanayel yoghurt (1 3,750 3,500 -6.7 Chtaura Hommos kg) Tahina (380 g) 1,450 1,450 0

issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. PRICES |49

Price of products during October 2011 (in LBP) Table 1 Price of products during October 2011 (in LBP) Table 1 Prices Prices Prices Prices beginning beginning of % of % of Item and brand price Item and brand beginning beginning of price of October November change of October November 2011 2011 2011 2011 change California Gardens Tissues and Detergents beans (450 g) 1,250 1,250 0 Mimosa tissues (500 Al-Wadi beans (450 g) 1,100 1,100 0 g) 2,750 2,750 0 Chtaura beans (480 g) 1,250 1,250 0 Fine tissues (200 1,300 1,300 0 Libby’s corn (340 g) 1,750 1,750 0 tissues) Pasta Primo tissues (200 tissues) 1,100 1,100 0 Barilla spaghetti (500 g) 2,250 2,250 0 Gipsy tissues (300 tissues) 2,850 2,850 0 Antonio Amato spaghetti (500 g) 2,200 2,200 0 Mimosa toilet papers (4 rolls) 4,000 4,000 0 Monte spaghetti (500 g) 2,250 2,250 0 Yes detergent (900 g) 2,200 2,200 0 Sugar and Salt Clorox (1 liter) 1,550 1,550 0 Sugar (2 kg) 3,500 3,500 0 Persil (4 kg) 18,000 18,750 +4.1 Al-Ousra Sugar (5 kg) 10,500 10,000 -4.7 Ariel (4 kg) 17,500 18,750 +7.1 Salt (700 g) 275 350 +27.2 Fruits and Vegetables Box of salt (738 g) 1,450 1,800 +24.1 Orange (1 kg) 1,500 1,500 0 Meat, Fish and Eggs Tomatoes (1kg) 1,000 750 -25 Zwan chicken (200 g) 2,500 2,500 0 Cucumbers (1kg) 2,500 1,500 -40 Zwan beef (200 g) 2,450 2,450 0 Bananas (1kg) 1,250 1,250 0 Lemons (1 kg) 1,500 600 -40 Luncheon meat beef 1,900 1,900 0 (198 g) Apples (1 kg) 2,000 2,000 0 Al-Mona chicken (200 Potatoes (1 kg) 800 600 -25 g) 2,250 2,250 0 Source: Information International Al-Taghzia beef (200 g) 1,950 1,950 0 Al-Taghzia chicken (200 g) 1,750 1,750 0 Geisha sardine (125 g) 1,200 1,200 0 Deli sardine (125 g) 1,200 1,200 0 Milo sardine (125 g) 1,100 1,100 0 Geisha tuna (200 g) 3,600 3,6000 White Bell tuna (200 g) 2,500 2,500 0 White Diamond tuna (200 g) 2,300 2,3000 Skipper tuna (185 g) 2,000 2,250+ +2.22.2 Eggs (30 eggs) 6,000 7,500 +25+25 Beef (1 kg) 13,000 15,000+ +15.315.3 Sheep (1 kg) 21,000 25,000 +19+19 Coffee and Tea Najjar coffee (1kg) 16,000 16,000 0 Brazil coffee (1 kg) 14,500 14,500 0 Al-Hisan tea (180 g) 2,750 2,750 0 Nestle (250g) 2,350 2,350 0 Halvah and Jam Al-Wadi halvah (454 g) 4,100 4,100 0 Al-Bsat halvah (450 g) 3,150 3,100 +1.6+1.6 Chtaura apricot jam (1 kg) 6,000 6,000 0 Al-Wadi apricot jam (1 kg) 5,250 5,250 0

issue 113 | December 2011 50| Did you know that? Olive Oil

EU dominates the global market of olive oil 5.6% in 2008/2009 and 4.8% is Tunisia’s production in the world. contribution to the world olive oil production Tunisia, Syria, and Turkey together in 2009/2010. constitutes the second global market for oil 4.8 % in 2008/2009 and 5.2% in 2009/2010 production. is Syria’s contribution to the world olive oil Spain has the first main areas of olive oil production. production in the EU with 2.4 million ha. 4.8% in 2008/2009 and 5.1% in 2009/2010 Italy has the second main areas of olive oil is Turkey’s contribution to the world olive oil production in the EU with 1.4 million ha. production. Greece has the third main areas of olive oil 0.9 % in 2008/2009 and 0.3% in 2009/2010 production in the EU with 1 million ha. is Lebanon’s contribution to the world olive 8.1% total world olive oil production oil production. has increased between 2008/2009 and 26.7% of total world’s olive oil imports went 2009/2010. to the USA, making it the most country which 6.4% is the increase in world’s olive oil imported oil in 2009/2010. imports between 2008/2009 and 2009/2010 37.8% of total world’s olive oil exports went (5,450,000 to 5,800,000 tons). out from EU in 2008/2009 and 2009/2010. 0.6% is the increase in world’s olive oil 0.4% is the decrease in the total olive oil exports between 2008/2009 and 2009/2010 consumption between 2008/2009 and (5,740,000 to 5,780,000 tons). 2009/2010 (21,595,000 to 21,590,000 tons). 72.5% in 2008/2009 and 74.5% is the EU 14.8% of total olive oil consumption around contribution to the world olive oil production the world was consumed by Turkey. in 2009/2010. Source: International Olive Oil Council (2010).

Beirut International Airport Rafic Hariri International Airport Traffic- October 2011

Rafic Hariri International Airport traffic in October 2011 compared to September 2011 and October 2010 Table 1 Airport recorded a % of change % of change decrease in passenger Traffic September October October September/ October 2010/ traffic in October 2011. The 2011 2011 2010 October 2011 October 2011 number of passengers fell by 130,163, down Arriving airplanes 2,974 2,289 2,735 -22.3 -16.3 22.5% compared to last Departing airplanes 2,940 2,293 2,745 -22 -16.4 September and up 7.5% Total No. of airplanes 5,887 4582 5,480 -22.1 -16.4 compared to October 2010. Arriving passengers 250,869 215,875 197,611 -14 +9.2 The number of passengers 323,442 over the last ten months Departing passengers 228,514 215,172 -29.4 +6.2 has reached 4,737,433 compared to 4,660,155 Transit passengers 4,472 4,231 4,595 -5.9 -7.9 during the same period Total No. of passengers 578,783 448,620 417,378 -22.5 +7.5 last year, up by 77,278 passengers or a Imported goods (per 3,210 4,124 3,871 +28.5 +6.5 percentage of 1.66. Table ton) 1 illustrates airport traffic in Exported goods (per 3,010 3,242 3,193 +7.7 +1.5 October 2011 compared ton) to September 2011 and Total amount of goods October 2010. (per ton) 6,220 7,366 7,064 +18.4 +4.2 Source: Information International and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation October 2011

issue 113 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. The Monthly’s Reception

The Monthly held in “Al- Muntada” conference room, on the third of November, 2011 a reception in honor of the ‰]

Mr. Jawad Adra, executive partner of Information International which publishes The Monthly, highlighted that this reception is an opportunity for the magazine’s readers and friends to get acquainted with each other, noting that The Monthly will hold a larger celebration in February 2012 on the occasion of its one hundredth Arabic issue. Mr. Adra stressed that the magazine does not express any personal opinions, but rather conveys the reality  magazine has gained wide popularity and was held in high regard among readers and researchers. Afterwards, †‹†‰œ issue in 2002 and Arabic issue in 2003. Mrs. Margie also shed light on the various topics discussed in the magazine a questionnaire designed to evaluate the magazine and suggest ways to improve it. Hereafter are some photos of the audience, noting that many invitees who arrived late were not photographed.

From the left: Dr. George Yaacoub, Mrs. Rania El Khoury, From the left: Mr. Marcel Hnein, Major Yasser Daher and Mr. Jawad Adra, Dr. Fida Jdeed and Mr. Mohamed Zbeeb Colonel Bahaa Hallal

From the left: Mr. Samir Rayyes, Mr. Toubia Zakhia, From the left: Dr. Nabil Dajani, From the left: MP Tammam Behind: Dr. Youssef el Khalil, Mr. Hussein Mr. Elie Farhat Mr. Saleh Farroukh Hamouch Mr. Samir Rayyes, Mr. Ali Ghandour Salam, Mr. Nadim Hakim

For more information To Subscribe: Al-Borj Building, 4th Floor, Martyrs Square, Beirut Central District Telephone: 961-1-983008/9 961-3-262376 Fax: 961-1-980630 Martyrs Square, Beirut [email protected] Telephone: 961 - 1 - 983008/ 9 www.iimonthly.com www.information-international.com www.iimonthly.com © Information International SAL All rights reserved www.information-international.com License No. 180/2003 From the left: Mr. Khalil Chammas, Mr. Ghassan Hajjar, Mr. Jean Aziz, Mr. Sami Sfeir, Mrs. Micheline Haddad, Mr. Ahmad Chamseddine, General Ibrahim Jabbour, Mr. Nicolas Nassif, Mr. Micheal Berhof (German Embassy) and Mr. Hassan Mekdad.

From the left: Mr. Adnan Bourji, Mr. Ahmad Abou al-Hosn (Egyptian Embassy), Mr. Mohamed Chamseddine, Captain Tony Abu Rjeily, Former Minister Yaacoub al-Sarraf, Mr. Riad al-Assad, Ms. Aline Khairallah, Ms. Song Huihui (Chinese Embassy), Dr. Fida Jdeed, Mr. Sarkis Abu Zeid, Mr. Antoine Boutros, Mr. Ghassan Jamous and Judge Rabiaa Ammach

From the left: MP Hagop Bakradonian, Omani ambassador Mr. Muhammad al-Jazmi Mr. Habib Frem and MP Tamam Salam and Mr. Ali Hamdan

From the left: Former General Sami Minkara, Mr. Kamal MP Nouhad Mashnouk and UNHCR Representative Zebian, Mr. Amine Salehm and Mr. Antoun Bou Sleiman Mrs. Ninette Kelley