issue number 123 |October 2012 OFFICIAL EXAMS GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES CO-OP “THE MONTHLY” INTERVIEWS MUKHTAR OF DHOUR EL-CHOUEIR www.iimonthly.com Published by Information International sal
RANKS AND SALARIES SCALE SEES THE LIGHT, BUT...
MP: LBP 12.7 MILLION JUDGE: LBP 9.3 MILLION LU PROFESSOR: LBP 8.4 MILLION
MINIMUM WAGE LBP 675,000
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 October INDEX 2012
4 RANKS AND SALARIES SCALE SEES THE LIGHT, BUT...
9 POSTPONEMENT OF PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS ENTAILS EXTENSION OF MPS’ MANDATE BUT WHAT ABOUT THE SPEAKER?
10 OFFICIAL EXAMS
14 MINISTRY OF FINANCE
15 TRIPOLI: 45 DEAD AND 290 INJURED IN 7 MONTHS 16 THE 1972 LEBANESE PARLIAMENTARY P: 15 P: 24 ELECTIONS (4)
18 GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES CO-OP
20 PUNISHMENT FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF FEMALE MINORS IN SCHOOLS
21 INDIVIDUALIZING CARE: DR. HANNA SAADAH
22 IS THERE AN ULTIMATE TRUTH IN SCIENCE?: ANTOINE BOUTROS
23 HOMOSEXUALITY: LET’S GET IT STRAIGHT!: P: 18 DR. MICHEL NAWFAL
24 INTERVIEW: MICHELINE KHOURY MAJAESS 41 INFRINGEMENTS ON COASTAL PROPERTY
26 MEANING OF FREEDOM FOR YOUTH 42 AUGUST 2012 HIGHLIGHTS
27 NOBEL PRIZES IN LITERATURE (2) 46 FEMALE SPORTS A THREAT TO ISLAMIC UNITY 30 ULYP: UNITE LEBANON YOUTH PROJECT
32 POPULAR CULTURE 47 REAL ESTATE PRICES IN LEBANON -
33 DEBUNKING MYTH #62: THE VERY FIRST A TO Z AUGUST 2012 48 34 MUST-READ BOOKS: THE POLITICS OF ANTI- FOOD PRICES - AUGUST 2012 SEMITISM 50 WATER 35 MUST-READ CHILDREN’S BOOK: ATLAS OF 50 CHILDREN BEIRUT RAFIC HARIRI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT - AUGUST 2012 36 LEBANON FAMILIES: FREIJ FAMILIES 51 LEBANON STATS 37 DISCOVER LEBANON: AN-NABI SHEET
38 CIVIL STRIFE INTRO (8) |EDITORIAL
ENCROACHMENT1 ON PUBLIC PROPERTY
Information International has published in 2003 a Today, and amid the increase of public debt, the booklet on coastal property, and below is a slightly pay rise and the government’s “struggle” to provide amended introduction of it, as nothing has changed further revenues, infringements on public coastal except for the worse. property remain lacking an equitable law, which Since the end of the Lebanese civil war in 1990, regulates the occupancy fees and removes all the successive governments, especially that of the 1992, have tried to manage the remnants of war and go with the wind. Furthermore, the laws in force to remove the infringements on public and private impose on the “legal and licensed” coastal facilities properties. Militia checkpoints and protection money and land trivial taxes that remain unfair compared disappeared, illegal ports were closed, customs resources were partly restored and a law stipulating margins. However, the successive cabinets and parliaments boils down to the role of the state, the rights and have failed to approve a law that addresses the duties of the citizens and our understanding of what encroachments on public coastal property. The draft is or is not public or private. The railroad properties law suggested by the 1996 Hariri government on this are violated and so are the main roads, the shoreline, issue hit snags in Parliament and the other attempt the mountains, the valleys and even the people. initiated in 1999 by Al-Hoss government was also to no avail. The budget sessions have always been abuzz with discussions on coastal infringements throughout the years and certainly the sessions of the current 1 Encroach on/upon something: to intrude on (a person’s government are no different. territory, rights, personal life, etc.)/ to advance gradually beyond usual or acceptable limits (Oxford Dictionay).
Ministerial and political statements tackling shoreline encroachments: “.. Reconsideration of the investment of public “.. Preserving the Lebanese coast and taking property, especially coastal one...” the measures necessary to solve the problem of (ministerial statement of Rashid As-Solh’s government- May 1992) encroachments upon the public coastal property for % .. Raising the revenues can be possible through a ” “ & R #**"$ proper collection of public property taxes...” !""#$ “ + R oil, water and public coastal and riverine property… and “.. The government will work on addressing the working on accelerating the approval of the draft law coastal property violations...” aimed at handling the coastal property violations...” (ministerial statement of Omar Karami’s government- October 2004) / 3 5 R 7 #*!!$ “.. Given the importance of preserving the Lebanese “.. Where do we stand regarding the settlement of the shoreline, which is one of the greatest treasures of Lebanon, the government will cooperate with for decades... (statement by Walid Jumblat in June 2012) Parliament to re-organize the coast in a manner that ” guarantees the rights of the people, and to solve the “.. We support the removal of immunity from all violations threatening the seaside land...” those encroaching on coastal public property...” (ministerial statement of Fouad Seniora’s government- July 2008) (statement by Minister of Public works and Transportation Ghazi Aridi in April 2011) LEBANON TYRUS Original view Cornelis De Bruyn 1698
MARINA du TRIPOLI & TRIPOLIS Original views Cornelis De Bruyn 1698 LEADER | 5 RANKS AND SALARIES SCALE SEES THE LIGHT, BUT… (1) JUDGES- UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS- PUBLIC AUTHORITIES
After months of protests, strikes and prolonged meetings, the Lebanese Cabinet approved during its session last Thursday, September 6, 2012, a draft law endorsing the ranks and salaries scale for serving and retired public employees (ministries, state institutions, debts. There is little likelihood that the rise will bridge the gap between civil servants, as some will have their salaries hiked by millions of Lebanese Liras every month while highlights the salaries of judges, LU professors and public authorities, and another one shedding light on those of teachers and the military shall follow in our next issue.
Why is the scale necessary? salaries of Lebanese University professors by virtue of The government mentioned a number of compelling #*D 3 I #*!# reasons that necessitated the approval of the ranks and reign to demands of parallel increases from the rest of salaries scale, of which we highlight the following: civil servants including teachers and the military. Besides raising their minimum wage to LBP 675 000, private sector employees were also granted a First scale and its amendments cost of living increase and therefore, civil servants The laws adopted before 1998 gave civil servants should be treated equally. different increases that broadened the disparities & R / N I !""Q The laws approved in the past few years granted =!D / R $ =!= exceptional increases for certain public employees, (raising minimum wage and granting cost of living pay which resulted in a huge salary gap within the public $ =!Q sector. military’s salaries scale) in a serious attempt to correct One of the foundations of administrative reform is \ to grant employees their right to fair salaries and different grades and ranks in all public administrations decent living, so that the public sector can attract %+N >** competencies. 000 to enter into force starting January 1, 1999 with a 7 ! !""D The widening of the pay- gap between the salaries of public sector employees probably was the main reason that prompted the disadvantaged civil servants to raise X \ !=> dominated the market since the approval of the above ? #" #*!! 5 laws, the salaries remained untouched until December @ / "*C >! #**Q D> And so, the Lebanese University professors followed in !""Q / R 661 of 1997, adding LBP 200 000 to the salaries of 5 serving employees and LBP 170 000 to the retired. Eventually, the government resigned it self to hiking the This law was to enter into force on May 1, 2008.
issue 123 | October 2012 6 | LEADER
Unbalanced scale
Judges’ salaries ? / Z !=> ? #" #*!!
5 "IC / [ @ %+N I** *** $ \ / [
! / R + !""Q #*!! / $ ]]Q #C ^ ! / 5 ]>QC / ]]>C
Evolution of judges’ salaries by grade (amounts in LBP) Table 1 Grade Salary in 1998 (1) Salary in 1999 (2) Salary in 2008 (3) Current salary (4) 1 762,000 1,900,000 2,100,000 4,100,000 2 807,600 2,050,000 2,258,000 4,350,000 3 853,200 2,200,000 2,416,000 4,600,000 4 898,800 2,350,000 2,574,000 4,850,000 10 1,172,400 3,250,000 3,522,000 6,350,000 11 1,218,000 3,400,000 3,680,000 6,600,000 12 1,263,600 3,550,000 3,838,000 6,850,000 13 1,309,200 3,700,000 3,996,000 7,100,000 19 1,582,800 4,600,000 4,944,000 8,600,000 20 1,628,400 4,750,000 5,102,000 8,850,000 21 1,674,000 4,900,000 5,260,000 9,100,000 22 1,719,600 5,050,000 5,418,0010 9,350,000 Source: Official Gazette
(1): grade value: LBP 45 600 (2): grade value: LBP 150 000 >$_ _ %+N !IQ *** (4): grade value: LBP 250 000
+_ / & X ` & R
Lebanese University Professors %j 5 5 / within the Lebanese civil service and thus should be treated equally. They also demanded that their retirement age be raised to 68 and the government complied with their wishes.
% #*D 3 I #*!# %j R them two exceptional grades (each grade amounting to LBP 225 000). Table 2 illustrates the evolution of LU !""Q #*!! IQ!C ^ ! %j 5 ]>"C I!*C
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Evolution of LU professors’ salaries by grade (amounts in LBP) Table 2 Grade Salary in 1998 (1) Salary in 1999 (2) Salary in 2008 (3) Salary in 2012 (4) 1 686,500 1,875,000 2,075,000 3,700,000 2 719,500 2,010,000 2,217,000 3,925,000 3 752,500 2,145,000 2,359,000 4,150,000 4 785,500 2,280,000 2,501,000 4,375,000 10 983,500 3,090,000 3,353,000 5,725,000 11 1,016,500 3,225,000 3,495,000 5,960,000 12 1,049,500 3,360,000 3,637,000 6,175,000 13 1,082,500 3,495,000 3,799,000 6,400,000 19 1,280,500 4,305,000 4,631,000 7,750,000 20 1,313,500 4,440,000 4,773,000 7,975,000 21 1,346,500 4,575,000 4,915,000 8,200,000 22 1,379,500 4,710,000 5,057,000 8,425,000 Source: Official Gazette
!$_ _ %+N >> *** #$_ _ %+N !>I *** >$_ _ %+N !]# *** (4): grade value: LBP 225 000
Indemnities and allocations of public authorities By public authorities, we mean the President Should a Member of Parliament remain entitled to this of the Republic, the Speaker of Parliament, the assistance, his/her monthly indemnities and allocations Prime Minister, the ministers and the members of would rise to LBP 15.4 million. Parliament. They are not paid regular salaries, but allocations and indemnities. The approval of every It is noteworthy that former Presidents and MPs as well new pay hike was accompanied with an increase in N 3N R [ #**Q the new increase as follows: !""! #*!# >_ ? N =IC N \ _ !>QQC indemnities and allocations of the serving President. & 5 N _ Q*=C The family of a deceased former President (wife, N 3 _ !#!*C single or widowed or divorced daughters and sons 3 _ !*QDC #I $ =IC 3 N _ !!D*C
During this period, the minimum wage was raised from ? 3N II C %+N =I *** %+N D=I *** Q**C 3 indemnities assigned to a serving MP if he/she was Parliament used to receive what was known as “social DI C } assistance”, amounting to LBP 2.7 million per month, =I C } from the Parliamentary Solidarity Fund. It is yet to be elected for three or more parliamentary tenures. known whether this assistance will be cancelled or ~ 3N } =IC not following the approval of the new salaries scale. of the sum allotted to him/her post- retirement.
issue 123 | October 2012 8 | LEADER
Evolution of the indemnities and allocations of public authorities between 1991 and 2012 (amounts in LBP) Table 3 Prior 1991 1991 1992 1998-2012 President of the 787,500 1,260,000 1,732,500 12,500,000 Republic Speaker of Parliament 1,221,800 1,954,880 2,687,960 11,825,000 Prime Minister and MP 1,039,300 1,654,880 2,575,460 11,825,000 Prime Minister (not an 846,800 1,354,880 2,192,960 - MP) Minister and MP 681,800 1,090,880 1,499,960 8,625,000 Minister (not an MP) 531,800 850,880 1,169,960 - MP 632,037 1,011,278 1,390,500 8,500,000
Indemnities and allocations of public authorities according to the new salary scale (amounts in LBP) Table 4 President of Speaker of Prime Minister Prime Minister Minister Minister (not MP the Republic Parliament and MP (not an MP) and MP an MP) Allocations 6,750,000 5,250,000 5,250,000 5,250,000 4,500,000 4,500,000 4,500,000 Representation 6,750,000 5,100,000 5,100,000 5,100,000 2,250,000 2,250,000 2,250,000 indemnity Car indemnity - 1,687,500 1,687,500 1,687,500 1,687,500 1,687,500 - Car and phone - - 2,700,000 2,700,000 2,250,000 2,250,000 2,250,000 indemnity Driver and Secretary - 2,700,000 - - - - 2,250,000 indemnity Protocol 5,250,000 3,000,000 3,000,000 3,000,000 2,250,000 2,250,000 1,500,000 indemnity Total 18,750,000 17,737,000 17,737,000 17,737,000 12,937,000 12,973,000 12,750,000
^ / %j \ @ 5 scale within the public sector.
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. PUBLIC SECTOR | 9
POSTPONEMENT OF PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS ENTAILS EXTENSION OF MPS’ MANDATE BUT WHAT ABOUT THE SPEAKER?
As the 2013 elections approach, and amid disagreement over the electoral law, as the Lebanese vacillate between the small districts’ proposition (Lebanese Forces and the Phalanges), the Orthodox suggestion (Free Patriotic Movement), the proportionality law with Lebanon as one district (Amal Movement and Hezbollah), the division of Lebanon into 14 districts on proportional basis (government’s proposition) and the 1960 electoral law (MP Walid Jumblat and Future Movement), a possibility of elections’ postponement has surfaced.
Delay in the holding of elections implies that the term new Chamber is elected, the Chamber shall meet under of Parliament will be extended, which in turn begs the the presidency of the oldest member… and shall elect question: Does extending the term of MPs apply also the President and the Vice President of the Chamber to the Speaker? Z R P According to those, extension is not tantamount to Speaker’s term election and an extended Chamber’s term entails Prior to the constitutional amendments stipulated in the extension of the Speaker’s mandate as well. Taif Agreement, the term of the Speaker of Parliament was only for one year. Later, the position of the Speaker of Parliament gained power, and the length of his Parliament’s extensions mandate became equal to that of the MPs (four years During the Lebanese civil war, because the currently). According to Article 44 of the Lebanese impossibility of holding parliamentary elections, many Constitution, “The Chamber may, once only, two laws were issued to extend the term of Parliament. years after the election of the President and the Vice % !}=D 3 !> !"=D [ N Parliament’s term until June 6, 1978. N N % >}=Q #* !"=Q [ a Decision of two thirds of the Chamber, based on a Parliament’s term until June 6, 1980. petition signed by at least ten deputies. The Chamber, % !]}Q* 7 # !"Q* [ N R 7 D !"Q> vacant post.” % "}Q> 3 #! !"Q> [ N R X >! !"Q] & ? % >}Q] 7 ## !"Q] [ never been withdrawn from the President or the Vice- N R X >! !"QD President. % !!}QD !! !"QD [ N R X >! What about the Speaker? 1988. In the event of the postponement of parliamentary % I#}Q= X ## !"Q= elections, and prior to the termination of current [ N R X >! N 7 #*!> Z 1990. convene and approve the extension of its mandate for % !}Q" X = !"Q" [ N R X >! !""] or more, until the elections take place. In this case, will (the Chamber convened and approved a law & 5 + terminating its extended term and the elections well, or will there be new elections bringing him, or any occurred in 1992.) other Shia’a deputy to the presidency of the Chamber? During their extended mandate, MPs convened and elected a Speaker of Parliament. The elected In the past, elections for the presidency of the Chamber speakers were: were held. However, some hold different opinion on & 5 ? !"=D !"Q> that matter referring to Article 44 of the Lebanese Speaker Hussein Husseini from 1984 to 1992 Constitution, which states clearly that “Each time a
issue 123 | October 2012 10 | PUBLIC SECTOR
OFFICIAL EXAMS PASS RATE AT 75% IN SECONDARY SCHOOL AND 67% IN MIDDLE SCHOOL
! ! ! detrimental decision and resumed the correction process. The issued results were characterized by high pass rates. The number of candidates for the Lebanese Baccalaureate in its four subjects amounted to 40 270 students, of which 30 351 or 75.3% passed the exams. 60 020 candidates enrolled for the Brevet examination, of which 40 095 or 67% passed the exams.
Baccalaureate in Life Sciences % & !> QQ] !> #"Q [ !* !*D ]>! !* I>= =I "C ! 3 ` Q#C 3 ` + 5 =! IC 3 `
Results by education sector and Mohafaza Table 1 Public Education Private Education Independent Students Successful Successful Successful Participants Participants Participants Candidates Candidates Candidates Absentees Absentees Absentees students students students Mohafaza Pass Pass Pass rate rate rate % % %
Beirut 384 - 384 258 67.2 934 126 808 700 86.6 86 21 65 16 24.6 North 1264 13 1251 766 61.2 1091 43 1048 886 84.5 71 17 54 6 11.1 South 800 - 800 659 82.4 780 4 776 656 84.5 60 11 49 17 34.7 Mount Lebanon 1433 14 1419 1065 75 3809 170 3639 2954 81.2 242 65 177 57 32.2 Nabatieh 590 4 586 483 82.4 321 3 318 272 85.5 29 10 19 8 42.1 Beqa’a 984 7 977 640 65.5 915 39 876 651 74.3 91 39 52 12 23 Total 5455 38 5417 3871 71.5 7850 385 7465 6119 82 579 163 416 116 27.9 2nd Round (across 3820 candidates 1218 absentees 2602 participants 431 successful Lebanon) students Source: Ministry of Education and Higher Education
Baccalaureate in General Sciences ^ & II]" I##> [ ]>>= DD ]]*> =" >C # 3 ` "*C == >C public schools with the Mohafaza of the South registering the highest pass rates in both sectors.
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Results by education sector and Mohafaza Table 2 Public Education Private Education Independent Students Successful Successful Successful Participants Participants Participants Candidates Candidates Candidates Absentees Absentees Absentees students students students Mohafaza Pass Pass Pass rate rate rate % % %
Beirut 143 1 142 91 64 466 116 350 309 88.3 28 10 18 8 44.4 North 669 3 666 506 76 522 12 510 472 92.5 56 13 43 3 7 South 227 - 227 197 86.8 147 - 147 140 95.3 9 3 6 1 16.7 Mount Lebanon 622 1 621 462 74.4 1824 127 1697 1489 87.7 52 23 29 5 17.2 Nabatieh 250 2 248 215 86.7 118 - 118 112 94.9 9 1 8 1 12.5 Beqa’a 225 3 222 172 77.5 170 4 166 154 92.8 12 7 5 - - Total 2136 10 2126 1643 77.3 3247 259 2988 2676 89.5 166 57 109 18 16.5 2nd Round (across 1231 candidates 531 absentees 700 participants 66 successful students Lebanon) Source: Ministry of Education and Higher Education
Baccalaureate in Literature and Humanities % #ID! #>"> [ !I#* #>! !=I! DQ ]C > 3 ` =IC DIC j 5 / R % Humanities was two times the number of private schools’ candidates.
Results by education sector and Mohafaza Table 3 Public Education Private Education Independent Students Successful Successful Successful Participants Participants Participants Candidates Candidates Candidates Absentees Absentees Absentees students students students Mohafaza Pass Pass Pass rate rate rate % % %
Beirut 38 1 37 21 56.7 156 34 122 73 59.8 46 18 28 3 10.7 North 580 8 572 351 61.4 100 5 95 70 73.7 87 31 56 10 17.9 South 78 - 78 69 88.4 129 - 129 96 74.4 31 9 22 3 13.6 Mount Lebanon 267 1 266 197 74 343 11 332 265 79.8 108 26 82 25 30.5 Nabatieh 163 1 162 99 61.1 13 - 13 12 92.3 23 4 19 2 10.5 Beqa’a 323 6 317 191 60.3 35 - 35 28 80 41 13 28 5 17.8 Total 1449 17 1432 928 64.8 776 50 726 544 74.9 336 101 235 48 20.4 2nd Round (across 1051 candidates 484 absentees 567 participants 231 successful students Lebanon) Source: Ministry of Education and Higher Education
issue 123 | October 2012 12 | PUBLIC SECTOR
Baccalaureate in Social Sciences and Economics / & & !Q #=D != >D] [ !> >*I >II !> DD* =] =C ] candidates, participants and successful students by education sector and Mohafaza. There was a tight competition between Q#C Q* >C 3 ` 5
Results by education sector and Mohafaza Table 4 Public Education Private Education Independent Students Successful Successful Successful Participants Participants Participants Candidates Candidates Candidates Absentees Absentees Absentees students students students Mohafaza Pass Pass Pass rate rate rate % % %
Beirut 815 5 810 664 82 1339 134 1205 1022 84.8 418 94 324 136 42 North 1607 13 1594 1239 77.7 971 23 948 837 88.3 289 64 225 73 32.4 South 1242 5 1237 1092 88.3 797 18 779 660 84.7 228 41 187 65 34.7 Mount Lebanon 2603 26 2577 2013 78.1 4198 150 4048 3244 80.1 1082 221 861 347 40.3 Nabatieh 756 1 755 679 89.9 194 12 182 150 82.4 113 30 83 39 47 Beqa’a 943 13 930 659 70.8 505 14 491 356 72.5 176 48 128 30 23.4 Total 7966 63 7903 6346 80.3 8004 351 7653 6269 81.9 2306 498 1808 690 38.2 2nd Round (across 5005 candidates 2281 absentees 2724 participants 355 successful Lebanon) students Source: Ministry of Education and Higher Education
" # $ The number of candidates for the intermediate Brevet examinations stood at 60 020 of which 58 091 students sat [ >Q =]* !>II ]* *"I DD QC I 3 ` =IC I>C + 5 & Table 5 Public Education Private Education Independent Students Successful Successful Successful Participants Participants Participants Candidates Candidates Candidates Absentees Absentees Absentees students students students Mohafaza Pass Pass Pass rate rate rate % % %
Beirut 1457 8 1449 680 49.9 3518 93 3425 2782 81.2 215 69 146 24 16.4 North 5898 69 5829 3239 55.6 6325 152 6173 4635 75.1 334 137 197 19 9.6 South 2922 17 2905 1764 60.7 4194 53 4141 2895 69.9 289 76 213 25 11.7 Mount Lebanon 4035 41 3994 1979 49.5 17549 508 17041 12636 74.2 675 249 426 78 18.3 Nabatieh 1784 11 1773 1073 60.5 2617 92 2525 2021 80 136 45 91 17 18.7 Beqa’a 2642 56 2586 1091 42.2 5164 149 5015 3742 74.6 266 104 162 40 24.7 Total 18738 202 18536 9826 53 39367 1047 38320 28711 74.9 1915 680 1235 203 16.4 2nd Round (across 21 380 candidates 7879 absentees 13 501 participants 1355 successful Lebanon) students Source: Ministry of Education and Higher Education
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& + & & Economics program and the lowest in the Literature and Humanities program. The General Sciences program was ` =" >C$ % DQ ]C$ + [ R DD QC D
Number of candidates and successful students by certificate Table 6 Certificate Candidates Passing Students Pass Rate (%) Baccalaureate in Life Sciences 13 884 10 537 75.9% Baccalaureate in General Sciences 5549 4403 79.3% Baccalaureate in Literature and Humanities 2561 1751 68.4% Baccalaureate in Social Sciences and Economics 18 276 13 660 74.7% Total 40 270 30 351 75.4% Brevet 60 020 40 095 66.8% Source: Information International based on the official results
Females in the forefront The top ten students in all examinations were mostly females as illustrated in Table 7.
Top ten students by certificate Table 7 Certificate Females Males Total Baccalaureate in Life Sciences 9 2 11 Baccalaureate in General Sciences 9514 Baccalaureate in Literature and Humanities 6410 Baccalaureate in Social Sciences and Economics 10 1 11 Brevet 17 5 22 Total 51 17 68 Source: Information International based on the official results
+_ & 5 !*
Conclusions: Females have proved themselves superior to males as they took over most of the top ten rankings in both secondary and intermediate examinations N ##C [ !*C !#C [ / 5 !*Q> !! !!> [ " =C ]I!] candidates absented themselves.
issue 123 | October 2012 14 | PUBLIC SECTOR MINISTRY OF FINANCE
There are around 90 000 security and military members in the Lebanese Army, the Internal Security Forces, the General Security and the State Security in Lebanon. This number is extremely high compared with the population and the geographical area of Lebanon or even compared to the tense security events that erupt every now and then and which are often curbed by political compromises. These assure that the security in Lebanon is a political, not a military one. Despite this large military personnel, the Ministry of Finance is not entitled to a number of its staff members to protect its building located in Corniche al-Nahr, which drives it to contract a private security company to assume this mission, and raises subsequently question marks on the role and ' need to provide protection for the ministry and are there any other alternatives that are less costly?
The status quo The Ministry of Finance has new premises in Corniche The presence of the Ministry of Finance in a security ^ & $ > area near the General Security does not require night 5 > time protection services. On the other hand, the ISF various units and departments including the Directorate should not be short of providing a few members of its of Revenues, the VAT Directorate, the Directorate staff to look after the building in daytime, especially of Expenditures, the Directorate of Treasury, the when hundreds of the security staff members assigned Ministry’s funds, etc. These directorates include to people in need of protection are doing chores and 5 / protection of the building. why would the ministry resort to mutual agreement to award the contract at such a high cost, and would not ISF fail to provide protection it have been better to install a surveillance system? In response to the need for protection, the Ministry of Finance has requested the Internal Security Forces (ISF) to set up a police station in the new premises, Each member is paid USD but the Ministry of Interior and Municipalities declined “1210 per month while supervisors the request due to lack of personnel. They pointed out receive USD 1375, which brings the that public administrations cannot contract private total cost to USD 16 060 per month security agencies to assume the tasks performed by the & and USD 193 000 per year ” prohibited items. The law assigned the ISF exceptionally to this mission, and thus contracting the protection of the ministry to private companies is deemed illegal. The Ministry of Finance violates the law The Cabinet and the Ministry of Finance overlooked the reply from the Ministry of Interior and Municipalities and invited bidders to present their offers which had to @ _ Q D_** D_** > members from 6:00 pm until 6:00 am. Each member is paid USD 1210 per month while supervisors receive j&X !>=I j&X !D *D* j&X !"> *** awarded by mutual agreement. Ministry of Finance _ Photo by Mohamad Mashlab
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. PUBLIC SECTOR | 15 TRIPOLI 45 DEAD AND 290 INJURED IN 7 MONTHS
O + / 8 " in the past few hours resulting in a number of deaths and injuries,” is a statement that has become familiar to our ears in the past few months. Regardless of the reasons behind the outbreak and the end of the armed clashes, injury and loss of life are the
This article will look at the number of casualties and ? #! ? #] / / violent attacks that involved new weapons used for shaken the city over the past seven months. !# !** / \ the 10th and 11th of February 2012 between Jabal And so, the total death toll has increased to 45 in Mohsen and Bab Tebbaneh. The clashes did not cease #"* / until after the Lebanese Army was deployed in Syria and it portends further losses as the crisis continues Street, the dividing line between the two fronts. The to escalate. Undoubtedly, the extremist Sunnis are # #* / = unable to expel the Alawis from Jabal Mohsen, from the Lebanese Army. The two victims who lost and in turn, the extremist Alawis fail to kick out their lives because of sniper operations were Walid & Bathish and an Eter woman. persist since everybody believes that the military intervention is out of the question and the solution Since the start of the Syrian events, Tripoli has lies only in dialogue and agreement. become a city protesting against the practices of the Syrian regime and supporting the opposition. Islamic organizations have headed the protest movements and the conditions in Tripoli have & ^ targeted a demonstration rallying in support of the Syrian revolution on April 22 and resulted in three /
Over three days (May 14-16), Tripoli was the center of violent clashes between Jabal Mohsen and Bab Tebbaneh, owing to the events hitting Syria and the arrest of the Islamist Chadi Mawlawi. 5 people I# / # #> / Z ] >* / !! !*I /
5 7 ] 7 Mohsen and Bab Tebbaneh resulting in the death of !] / D* 5 up and exploded anew on June 17 with 6 dead and #* / HTTP://WRNEWZ.COM
issue 123 | October 2012 16 | PUBLIC SECTOR
THE 1972 LEBANESE PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS (4) BEIRUT ELECTIONS TASHNAG-PHALANGES ALLIANCE, 47 VOTES MAKE BAYDOUN WIN AND SALAM BEATS YAFI
After reviewing the results of the 1972 parliamentary elections in our previous issues, we will dedicate this article on the outcome of the electoral process in the three Beirut districts. The Beirut elections took place on April 16, 1972 according to the law adopted in 1960 during the presidential term of Fouad Chehab, which divided the capital into 3 electoral districts including 16 seats (there was a total of 99 seats back then). The voter turnout registered that year stood at 43.4% with 93 253 casting their ballots out of 214 695 registered voters. Beirut 1 giving way to the Phalanges candidate Joseph Shader. This district had a Christian-Armenian stamp in terms of deputies and voters. It was the largest among There was also a heated contest between the Catholic Beirut’s districts as it consisted of six neighborhoods: 3 ^ ? ? ? \ 3 & 3 3 they turned to President Camille Chamoun, who opted el-Hosn. There were 102 697 voters in Beirut 1, of 3 >] Q!] >> DC Aboul Adal who shifted his candidacy to the Qada’a were allocated to Beirut 1 and were distributed by sect of Jezzine. The Phalanges-Tashnag list emerged as follows: #D =>> Maronite (1) ==C Greek Orthodox (1) Greek Catholic (1) The results broke down as follows: Armenian Catholic (1) 3 & ^ 5 [$_ >* ##= Evangelical (1) 3 ^ 5 Z $_ #" =>I ? [ >$ Pierre Gemayel (Maronite): 28 590 votes 7 & ? Z $_ #= =>= Beirut 1 witnessed a strong electoral alliance between Khatchik Babakian (Armenian Orthodox): 25 080 the Phalanges and the Tashnag Party who yielded votes a sweeping victory in the district, noting that the Sourine Khan Amerian (Armenian Orthodox): 24 results were guaranteed in their favor even before QD> the elections, which lead to a lower turnout in Beirut 3 5 ? ? [$_ #] ==> # + > votes compromises and concessions made by the two parties Antranik Manoukian (Armenian Evangelical): 22 as the Phalanges gave up their Evangelical candidate 861 votes MP Samir Eshak in favor of the Tashang’s Armenian Evangelical candidate Antranik Manoukian. This deal The losers were: was brokered as a result of the arbitration decision Tony Saad (Evangelical): 10 778 votes made by President Camille Chamoun upon request of ? ^ 5 [$_ >D]] the two parties, which gave the Armenians one seat at Carlo Dadourian (Armenian Catholic): 2626 votes the expense of the Evangelicals. President Chamoun & ~ 5 3 $_ #>I! / George Haddad (Greek Catholic): 2011 votes sect was represented throughout three successive rounds by a non-Armenian deputy, but the Evangelical Beirut 2 Armenians constitute one quarter of the Evangelical An Islamic (Sunni and Shia’a) aura was prevalent in sect and hence, the Tashnag Party has the right to Beirut 2, which was the smallest district in the capital nominate an Evangelical Armenian candidate for this > @ @ + + ? round. Furthermore, the Tashnag candidate Hagob Mreisseh) and three seats, one for the Sunni, Shia’a Jokhadrian withdrew from his Armenian Catholic seat
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. PUBLIC SECTOR | 17
and minorities respectively. The number of registered & & !Q ]#I $ 5 3 ` !D ]Q" voters in Beirut 2 stood at 40 004 voters in 1972 of $ 7 !> >** $ !" D=D ]" #C one candidate of the Dignity List: Othman al-Dana (12 was restricted to two lists, one headed by Rashid Sold ==# $ / ~ 5 ? 3 / ^ !D *>> $ the other headed by Adnan Hakim and consisted of Mohammad Youssef Baydoun and Ibrahim Chamas. The Salam-backed candidates who failed to make it The competition was very tight and translated into Z 5 ~ `` @ !# *QD $ 3 !! ]>! $ \ & & Q"D# N3 votes) and Farid Gebran succeeded in representing the ? Q=>] ">>> lowest score among Sunni candidates of both lists), member Mohammad Youssef Baydoun won the Shia’a 5 !# #"] $ 3 5 seat after he was granted 8798 votes against the 8751 "*Q* $ \ ? =I*> $ ? 3 / margin of 47 votes. Adnan Hakim received 7617 votes Losing individual candidates were: and another 6186 were granted to Ibrahim Chamas. Moueen Hammoud: 9492 votes Hassan Saab: 5217 votes The most prominent individual candidate, who ran for Bassem Jisr: 4165 votes & R % N Abdul Hafeez Qoulaylat: 2199 votes Z 5 5 N Mohammad Maghribi: 1785 votes N >*D= Monah Solh: 1742 votes Abdul Razaq Doughan: 1404 votes Beirut 3 Sami Chehabeddine: 1261 votes ` & / terms of voters and deputies and it consisted of three \ 5 ]* neighborhoods: Mazra’a, Msaytbeh and Ras Beirut. years ago, but radical changes have happened since Five seats were allocated for this district, four of which then and many faces disappeared and were replaced by belonged to the Sunni and one to the Greek Orthodox. newer ones, thus altering the alliances that were taken There were 71 994 eligible voters in Beirut 2, with for granted, and the voters in the capital are eagerly >Q =D> I> QC waiting for the electoral law that will lay the grounds witnessed the highest voter turnout in Beirut given the #*!> / _ The Beirut Solidarity List headed by the then PM Loss prevents protocol visit Saeb Salam and the Dignity List headed by former PM After the results were out, PM Saeb Salam tendered the ? resignation of his government to President Suleiman who ran for the Greek Orthodox seat in the name and Frangieh on May 10, 1972. President Frangieh 3 / accepted the resignation and the Premier served as Wakim. Wakim reaped ample Muslim votes against caretaker before he was appointed on May 24 to form only a few hundred out of 8000 Christian votes and a new government. According to the protocol, PM his victory prompted clerical and popular Orthodox Saeb Salam paid his usual visit to all former living protests that were supported by the Orthodox losing Premiers including Khaled Chehab, Ahmad Daouq, candidates. Wakim replied to the protesters saying ` ?55 \ ? that his “victory frightened the sectarian nests and that ` N3 & Z Salam arguing that his refusal aims at preserving the Christianity.” dignity of the voters who voted for his list when he was running against Salam. The elections resulted in the victory of three candidates of the Beirut Solidarity List:
issue 123 | October 2012 18 | PUBLIC SECTOR GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES CO-OP LBP 210 BILLION FOR HOSPITALIZATION
; < $ ! improving the delivery of public services and simplifying the procedures in the United Nations Public Service Awards for 2012 according to an announcement made in mid-May 2012. At the beginning of June, the Co-op employees revealed their intention to strike until their demands are met and they become equal to other public employees. What is the Cooperative of Government Employees and what are its functions?
Establishment Staff The Cooperative of Government Employees was #!" / Z X !]#=> Government Employees distributed over different #" !"D> / grades as shown in Table 1. / Z Staff of the Cooperative of Government Service Council and the supervision of the Audit Court. Employees Table 1 Grade Number Functions One 1 It is compulsory that permanent public employees be Two 4 members at the Co-op, which is responsible for: Three 25 Medical assistance for any member who falls sick Four 162 / Five 27 Medical assistance for the family of any Co-op Total 219 member including his father, mother, children, spouse or siblings Family assistance in the event of death of the In addition to the above staff, the Cooperative hires 28 member wage earners including: Assistance for members in the vent of death of any 9 cleaners of their siblings 7 clerks Marriage allowances 10 workers Maternity allowances 1 specialist Educational allowances 1 technician End-of-service allowances Beside its central administration in Beirut, the Co-op I 3 ` > Beside its central administration in Z >*C “Beirut, the Co-op has 5 branches, one in with 66 vacant positions. / = > vacancy rate at the Co-op amounts to Structure The Co-op has a decisive board known as the board of 30%, with 66 vacant positions directors and consisting of 9 members appointed by a ” decree for a three-year term. The board is responsible
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. PUBLIC SECTOR | 19
for overseeing the performance, the annual budget, the rules and regulations and the work plan of the Co-op. General Director “of the services of the Cooperative The General Director is the head of all the Co-op’s of Government Employees reached departments and employees. 300 000 in 2011 compared to 295 The administrative structure of the Cooperative of 000 in 2010 and 278 000 in 2009 Government Employees consists of: ” IT and Statistics Department / Administrative Department Administrative Bureau Z ^ >** 000 in 2011 compared to 295 000 in 2010 and 278 000 Medical Assistance Bureau in 2009. Complaints and Reviews Bureau Social and Medical Affairs Department The Co-op’s contributions Hospitalization Bureau The 2010 contributions of the Cooperative of + ? + Government Employees stood at roughly LBP 210.7 Financial Department billion compared to LBP 186.2 billion in 2008 with the Administrative Accounting Bureau medical aid topping the contributions as illustrated in Fiscal Accounting Bureau Table 2. Expenditures Supervision Department " Contributions of the Cooperative of Government Employees (in LBP billion) Table 2 Year/Contribution 2008 2009 2010 Medical aids 57.1 67.3 71 Hospitalization costs 53.6 54.34 67.8 Educational allowances 67.3 64.4 61.8 Marriage allowances 667.5 (LBP million) 1.1 966.4 (LBP million) Maternity allowances 634 (LBP million) 847.3 (LBP million) 902 (LBP million) Death allowances 6.9 8.3 8.3 Total 186.2 196.3 210.7 Source: Report published by the Cooperative of Government Employees
Government Employees Co-op - Photo by Mohamad Mashlab
issue 123 | October 2012 20| LAW
PUNISHMENT FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF FEMALE MINORS IN SCHOOLS: PRISON RATHER THAN DEATH PENALTY The incidents of child molestation carried out by teacher Pierre Chalash against a number of female minors at the Saint Joseph School in Aintoura has recently drawn the attention of the Lebanese public with the different types and backgrounds of the incidents, especially that they occurred in an educational K are an existing fact that are often forgotten or concealed due to religious and social considerations.
The moment the Aintoura incidents were exposed, there Based on the above testimony, Mount Lebanon’s were demands for the punishment of the molester and / some went as far as calling for his execution. However, of the defendant for attempted rape for lack of evidence, the molester will most probably be sentenced to prison. considering that sexual harassment is a felony according I!" I#* I#> I>> Case in this case the accused is sentenced to prison. ? #> N ^ Z had sexually harassed a number (allegedly 11) of minor Articles used in prosecution female pupils between 6 and 8 years of age at the Saint Prosecution against the accused was carried out Joseph School in Aintoura. The teacher had been molesting according to the following articles: his pupils by fondling sensitive parts of their bodies and Article 519: “He, who fondles or touches a male or taking photos of their underwear since December 2011 female minor under 15 years of age, in an indecent until one of the girls told her parents about his abusive acts. manner, without their consent, shall be sentenced to no R ? 5 more than 6 months in prison.” the school administration will handle the case of sexual Article 520: “He, who offers indecent acts, or communicates abuse slowly, but strictly without paving the way for rumors. indecent language with a minor under 15 years of age, shall / ! !* Judiciary that does not exceed LBP 250 000 or both.” In her testimony, a minor girl confessed that one day the Article 523: ‘He, who incites a 21-year-old male or female teacher helped her to complete a drawing and then started into sexual immorality and debauchery, or facilitates their to touch her intimate parts, his touches becoming a weekly / ! habit. Another girl told similar accounts of the teacher ! %+N I* *** %+N I** *** pressing against her body and the rest of the victims He, who engages in or facilitates the practicing of secret repeated the same stories to the investigator with slight prostitution, shall incur upon himself similar penalties.” differences in the practices such as touching their hair or midsection and demanding them to pose with their legs “He, who commits indecent acts against a minor under 15 years open for the photos. The minors said that they were afraid of age or persuades him/her into such acts shall be sentenced to to tell their parents or teachers about what was happening. / ] During his interrogation, the teacher denied having attempted minors under 12 years of age. Further penalties shall be imposed if rape against any of his pupils and admitted that fondling was all the felon is family member or has direct authority over the minor.” he did, stressing that he could have raped them, had he wanted Some believe that the indictment of Judge Elie Helo was to. The teacher added that he realized he was suffering from lenient, contrary to the conclusions of the General Prosecution, a psychological condition (perhaps pedophilia) when he had which appealed the decision. There is a huge gap between the discovered his sexual interest in children rather than in adults. popular demand to send the teacher to death row and the legal He also emphasized that he wanted to seek treatment but he texts in force. So does the problem lie in the legal description of the offence or in the Penal Code which should be amended to that his sexual contact included seven girls only and all the impose more severe and strict punishment especially when the rumors circulating were fabricated with the aim of defamation. victim is an innocent child who needs protection and care?
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. HEALTH|21
INDIVIDUALIZING CARE |Dr. Hanna Saadah|
“It is more important to know what kind of patient has the disease than what kind of disease the patient has,” said the father of modern medicine, Sir William Osler (1849-1919)—and his words ring truer today because, over the past century, medicine has evolved from a humane art to an uncompromising science. The fallacy of applying medicine as a pure science with expectation of reproducible results is caused by the fact that individuals, who differ biologically and psychologically, respond diversely to identical treatments.
A typical example is the patient who had a deadly fear of Doctor: “And I guess I prescribe because I know how to / prescribe safely.” because a course of penicillin is the appropriate treatment. R Stories and Myths cause patients to generalize, extrapolate, / [ and make decisions against their own good. To reveal their nurse. The overwhelmed patient fainted, vomited, aspirated, faulty reasoning requires the art of cognitive therapy, which and ended up in the hospital with a pneumonia, for which depends far more on love, faith, dedication, commitment, and / j / R A third example is the patient who has surgery for breast / 5 cancer and is told that having chemotherapy would increase patient physically impaired, psychologically traumatized, and her chances of survival but is also likely to cause considerable mistrustful of the medical profession. All of this could have adverse effects for an entire year. The patient has strong been avoided had the doctor given the patient a prolonged feelings against chemotherapy and no analogy or evidence course of oral penicillin, which would have eventually cured sways her to the contrary. The artful doctor asks: the patient’s syphilis without the aforementioned morbid Doctor: “Would you rather have a cure or would you rather consequences. risk a relapse if you knew that the chance of a cure is 80% Fear, the great confounder of science, is resistant to with chemotherapy and the chance of a relapse is also 80% & without it?” that needles are safe would have done no good. Dealing Patient: “I would rather take my chances without it.” with patients’ fears is the art of medicine, which uses—love, Doctor: “Would you rather wait for a relapse before you begin faith, dedication, commitment, and deep insights into human chemotherapy, knowing that it would be much less effective, or N @ change your mind later.” Another example is the patient who needs treatment for Patient: “I’d like to be able to change my mind later, if you osteoporosis but has read many bad things about the medicines would still accept me as a patient.” for the condition and is thus reluctant to take them. Moreover, Doctor: “I would always be your doctor, no matter what the patient’s aunt had taken these medicines and developed choices you make. It is your right to make an informed / decision and I believe that you are well informed.” medicines. To convince the patient to act against his conviction could take an artful analogy, for example: Coercing patients into treatments that are against their Doctor: “Sir, do you drive a car?” solemn wishes may cause more harm than the untreated Patient: “Yes, of course.” disease, whereas going along with the patients’ intuitions and Doctor: “Do you know that cars kill about 50,000 people and \ [ maim more acceptable outcomes. another 200,000 each year?” \ Patient: “I guess.” that has more need for proof than art—and on art as the humane Doctor: “If you were not take your osteoporosis medicine, discipline that has more need for intuition than science. To which is far safer than driving your car, then you should not be individualize patient care requires a balance of both, with driving either. So how come you continue to drive?” intimate knowledge of the science of medicine and even more Patient: “Well, I guess I drive because I know how to drive intimate knowledge of the human being behind the disease. safely.”
www.hannasaadah.com - www.information-international.com - [email protected] issue 123 | October 2012 22|EYEING HORIZONS
IS THERE AN ULTIMATE |Antoine Boutros| TRUTH IN SCIENCE?
Q R ! = \ the future achievements awaiting us in the new century, one wonders about where all this is ' ! O PZ
+ 5 This begs the question: to what extent is it proper to and understanding of our universe and existence? say that what has been achieved so far is the ultimate 3 & Hawking, believe that the end of physics is approaching Those who dig into the history of philosophy and theory of everything by merging the theory of relativity when scientists suspect that only a few inches separate with that of quantum mechanics. them from the fact. However, they soon discover a new 5 and contrary to Hawking, certain scientists think it is still too early to explore the truth, not because of the lack of & 5 but because the history of modern science has not even and then to harmonize between them each time the gap [ \ a relatively short period. And supposing we went back to between them. Einstein spent a lengthy period of his life the Aristotelian era and further back to the times of the in search of this theory but to no avail. Hawking believes Babylonians and Egyptians three thousand years ago, this that the time then was inappropriate because science had been too far from understanding the underlying forces and be able to unravel the secret of a world of over 10 behind these phenomena. In addition, Einstein refused the billion years of age based on the simplest estimations. quantum mechanics theory, which prevails on the scale of microphysics or the sub-nuclear world nowadays and / \ 5 _ the second the theory that responds to this challenge. ? The challenge is the means for a new discovery while four fundamental forces governing the universe: the 5 5 gravitational force, the electromagnetic force, the weak Challenges against science are being launched from nuclear force and the strong nuclear force. Each force ~ explains a number of natural phenomena, but scientists adheres to its own conception of truth and fears the are yet to combine all these forces in one theory that destruction of its intellectual thoughts which are based explains all the phenomena and should they arrive at one theory, it would then be appropriate to say that science concerned that the current discipline might dominate & what it seemed to them new facts and milestones paving 5 the way for the desired paradise of truth. On the other nuclear forces and the electromagnetic ones. The next hand, the democratic school feels uneasy about the step entails unifying the weak nuclear forces with the prevalence of mechanization while the conservative one refuses the rule of technology. Science, being a complex with the other three forces, a mission that all scientists are humanitarian activity, stands most often at the farthest racing to complete in order to offer the world the greatest distance from the ultimate and the absolute. gift and stand by the side of great scientists. [ _ & \
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. www.irthsumer.com - www.information-international.com - [email protected] EYEING HORIZONS|23
|Dr. Michel Nawfal| HOMOSEXUALITY: LET’S GET IT STRAIGHT! MD Mental Health Professional
Homosexuality is one of those controversial topics that most people avoid because of the prejudice and discrimination associated with homosexuals. The source of this prejudice and discrimination can be traced back to the fact that homosexuality was long regarded as a psychiatric disorder. Nevertheless, O P
Sexual orientation is one of the components of sexuality that of a homosexual’s brain in comparison is characterized by patterns of emotional, romantic and sexual to a heterosexual. It is hypothesized that high exposure to attractions to individuals of a particular sex. Homosexuality is some hormones will make the fetus more attracted to females a sexual orientation recognized as an attraction to individuals ? R [ 3 `` in males will show signs of submission in matters of sexual to comprehend why people engage in homosexual activities. drive and attraction to other males. Similarly, females that The nature of homosexuality led people to question the get exposed to excessive levels of androgen exhibit elevated causes and origins behind such sexual orientation. Is it genetic, levels of aggression and sexual drive towards other females. biological, social, psychological, or simply a matter of personal Even though genetic and biological studies bring forth preference? Many theories touch on the possible explanations valuable evidence for the causes behind homosexuality, for what determines homosexuality. However, it is crucial to note sociologists and psychologists are not convinced. that there is no consensus among professionals about the exact Most theories discuss the family environment which usually reasons why individuals develop a particular sexual orientation. focuses on the parent-child relationship. Theorists believe that Sexual orientation emerges around early adolescence for dysfunctional relationships during childhood with the parent of most people, without them having been exposed to preceding the same-sex as the child can lead to homosexual orientation. sexual experiences. Moreover, some individuals claim that Thus, lack of intimate bonding and love in a father-son or they found no success in changing their sexual orientation mother-daughter relationship can lead the child to lack of from homosexual to heterosexual. Thus, professionals often [ rule out the probability that homosexual orientation is a In addition to the family environment, social theorists believe conscious choice that people choose voluntarily. that peer pressure plays a role in reinforcing the process of In addition to dismissing sexual orientation as a sense [ Z of choice, professionals also urge to dispel the stigma that as a masculine female or a non-masculine male do not exactly associates homosexuality with mental illness or even emotional O P problems. A rational explanation behind the negative thoughts [ [ that some homosexuals often have about themselves could be lead to gender confusion during adolescence. linked to the negative attitudes they receive from their social Gender confusion can also lead a child to identify with other environment rather than their sexual preference itself. As a peers of the same sex that also suffer from similar feelings of [ isolation. The shared homosexual label brings forth feelings \ of security, self-understanding and acceptance. Moreover, The most prominent theories that tackle sexual orientation [ O correlate it with genetic and biological factors. Twin studies out” provides an individual with a chance to escape from have shown that individuals who are homosexual twins are \ / more likely to be homosexual than the general population. Even Thus, being part of a supportive and accepting homosexual though these studies highlight genetics as a probable proof for community can be powerful motive for accepting one’s homosexuality, it does not prove there is solely a “gay gene”. homosexual orientation. Other studies have showed that the rate of homosexuality for Despite all the logical debates that aim to understand adopted siblings is higher than the general rate in society, thus [ lowering the probability of its being genetically inherited and answer. However, exploring the possible contributors highlighting the possible role of social environment. of homosexual orientation is crucial because the Furthermore, biological studies that examine the brain society is saturated with misinformation. Whether structures and hormones support the probability of an “born gay” or “grew up to become gay”, understanding individual to be “born gay”. Studies conducted showed homosexuality is a right and duty because it promotes physiological differences between the anatomical structures kindness, compassion and empathy within all humanity.
issue 123 | October 2012 24| INTERVIEW
THE MONTHLY INTERVIEWS
MUKHTAR OF DHOUR EL-CHOUEIR MICHELINE KHOURY MAJAESS “MAKHTARA IS NOT RESERVED FOR MEN ALONE”
In the past few decades, Lebanese women have started to break down dogmatic familial, social and cultural barriers that have prevented them from holding certain jobs due to gender bias. The traditional position of women has drastically changed as they have succeeded in standing equal to men and racing ahead of them on their quest for success. However modestly, Lebanese women have become involved in public affairs, entering politics and parliament and running for seats in the municipal councils. Yet, women were reluctant to seek Makhtara for special considerations associated with this mission. In the 1998 Ikhtiyariah elections, many women won the Micheline Khoury Majaess Mukhtar post, which was mostly inherited from their fathers or husbands. The presence of female society activities and organizations. In the spring of Mukhtars was reinforced in the 2004 elections with 2010, when the Ikhtiyariah elections were approaching, 27 women winning this post. In 2010, the number rose to 35 out of 2566 Mukhtars in Lebanon. and I was easily persuaded since serving as Mukhtar provides wider opportunities to help the people in my The Monthly interviewed the Mukhtar of Dhour el- hometown. Z 3 3 3 / experience and the motives that steered her into How did the public receive your candidacy Makhtara. announcement? Everybody supported the idea, emphasizing that women Who are you? have the right to be present in different arenas within the 3 3 / X public sphere. Dhour el-Choueir considered that Makhtara el-Choueir in 1972. I have a Bachelor’s degree in offers women another chance to prove themselves and Public Accounting and I have been working in a private \ X !# reserved for men. Men and women proved equal in their to the Greek Orthodox sect like half the population in support, so I chose to rise to the challenge and to present Dhour el-Choueir. 3 5 What were the reasons that motivated you to time a woman serves as Mukhtar in Dhour el-Choueir Z although many Matn towns have allowed this privilege Our town is entitled to three Mukhtars. In keeping with \ 3 my natural inclination to serve the public and improve 3 5 % people’s welfare, I have always been involved in civil #=
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. INTERVIEW |25
How do you balance between your work and How would you describe your relation with the Makhtara? municipality? 3 \ [ 5 We have an excellent municipality and we cooperate on facilitating my new undertaking and allows me closely with them in many affairs. The mayor, Mr. to leave during working hours should the need arise Elias Abou Saab, is extremely helpful and urges us to for necessary meetings or the like. In the afternoon, I accomplish all what’s in the town’s best interests. return to Dhour el-Choueir and I receive people at my residence to help them accomplish the necessary. I offer \ \ free of charge services to my hometown’s residents political positions and stances in Matn and and to those of neighboring towns who head for Dhour Dhour el-Choueir? el-Choueir where the registry center is. Financial I am not engaged in politics. I am certainly aware of remuneration matters little to me. My ultimate goal is the political developments but I refuse to take sides to serve others and I am trying my best to live up to my with or against any party. My priority is to improve the duties. The Makhtara requires time to attend meetings living conditions in my town and my cooperation with and activities and to comply with social etiquette and the MPs and the political parties is aimed to serve this obligations, and I believe that I have so far proved end only. I am on good terms with and at equal distance myself able to meet those demands. from all the political forces in the town.
What are the impediments you confront at work? \ ! ? / work of the Mukhtars? Sometimes people strive to obtain certain documents We need to have a computerized or mechanized system in an illegal manner, but I cannot and will not authorize for the personal status records in order to facilitate something that puts me at odds with my social and work and protect them from damage. I also urge the public commitments. state to hold educational seminars aimed to introduce At other times, I encounter embarrassment at certain Mukhtars to their tasks and how they should handle meetings when people start to complain about how them. I believe that standardizing and unifying samples the Mukhtar sent his secretary instead of showing up in person, so I correct them clarifying that I am the Mukhtar. Some take it well, while others show some to curb corruption . Furthermore, the Mukhtars should reserve. be granted a salary in return for the responsibilities they assume and the time they spend, especially that Have you experienced any humorous incidents 5 you would like to share? X \ 5 Do you provide personal assistance? in, anybody standing beside me will bombard me with I wish I had the means to do it. I try to help the needy questions regarding the identity of the attendees. Funny by referring them to the relevant local and international how they expect a Mukhtar to know everybody! I don’t. ^ On one occasion, the Mukhtar badge fell off my car license plate accidentally. Someone called me to inquire Will you leave your post when you get married? about the badge, requesting to speak with the Mukhtar 3 but wouldn’t believe the badge belonged to me. long as I maintain the support from people. Therefore, I am planning to run for the upcoming elections in 2016. What are the achievements you have so far offered to the town? What is your favorite hobby? ` >* I allocate long hours for reading. It is my favorite in the Red Cross. Currently, I am pushing for the hobby and Ahlam Mosteghanemi is my favorite author. opening of a center for the Ministry of Social Affairs I also like to travel. in the town in order to provide more employment opportunities and services to the residents. I am also / 3 5 j Matn Mukhtars.
issue 123 | October 2012 26 | CULTURE, RELIGION & ART
MEANING OF FREEDOM FOR YOUTH
The freedom of the youth is one of the most paramount issues raised in our era. It manifests / _ / Our young generation wants independence and freedom in personal affairs as a means to attain self-assertion, personality building and autonomy.
Young people call for unconditional freedom and believe that speaking of reasoning, logic, rules and regulations, control and boundaries is pointless and to no avail. Which freedom do young people want and how do they conceptualize it? Having an inclination to revolt and destroy the boundaries can be valuable when propelled by guided, not uncontrolled freedom. Guided freedom is promoted by parents as they are responsible for orienting their children and steering them in the right direction. Using control and dictating rules do not pay off with young people but instead, they should be approached differently. The parents should create an appropriate social atmosphere to saturate their children with care and affection, help them bond must rest on a solid foundation of mutual love and interaction, bearing in mind that the youngster is an individual with an independent personality, not a typical embodiment of his father or mother. Guided freedom contributes to the liberation from illogical restraints and promotes the creativity and aspirations of the youth, fusing into them the guidelines for a sound personality inside the youth. However, if the desire to be independent means ultimate freedom sought by the youth nowadays, then there will undoubtedly be disadvantages and destructive risks incurred on the individual and the community.
\ 5 might grow rebellious and disobedient; they can resort to force to get what they want and hold stubbornly to their unreasonable opinions. They often revolt against social and moral values \ evident neglect of their commitments. A battle between personal instincts and social values also breaks out during this stage and young people realize that the religious rituals and principles they have been taught are now at odds with their own philosophy of life and religion.
Unfortunately the youth have a misconception of what real freedom is. They want unlimited and unrestrained liberty, which will probably translates into a destabilized and unruly society.
Youngsters are born shackled with biological, material and social cuffs. Breaking free is often tied to the proper conditions that the community can offer to help them push their way towards the desired goal. Providing an education is a prime factor that contributes to the liberation of the youth, and the establishment of a sound community and knowledge in general releases people from ignorance and enables them to exploit the nature and its forces to meet their needs and serve their ends and their society.
Nour Assaf Ahliah School (Grade 11- Humanities)
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. CULTURE, RELIGION & ART | 27
NOBEL PRIZES IN LITERATURE (2)
In what follows, we publish the second part of the list of laureates who received the Nobel Prize for their discoveries and breakthroughs in Litertaure from 1901 until 1959. Peace Prizes shall be highlighted in our next issue.
Literature Prizes (1901-1959) Year Name Nationalitiy Born Division of Prize Purpose for his lyrical poetry, which with classical fire expresses the 1959 Salvatore Italy 1901 Quasimodo tragic experience of life in our own times Boris for his important achievement both in contemporary lyrical 1958 Leonidovich Russia 1890 poetry and in the field of the great Russian epic tradition Pasternak for his important literary production, which with clear-sighted 1957 Albert Camus France 1913 earnestness illuminates the problems of the human conscience in our times for his lyrical poetry, which in Spanish language constitutes an 1956 Juan Ramón Spain 1881 Jiménez example of high spirit and artistical purity for his vivid epic power which has renewed the great narrative 1955 Halldór Kiljan Iceland 1902 Laxness art of Iceland for his mastery of the art of narrative, most recently demon- Ernest Miller 1954 USA 1899 strated in The Old Man and the Sea, and for the influence that Hemingway he has exerted on contemporary style Sir Winston for his mastery of historical and biographical description as 1953 Leonard Spencer UK 1874 well as for brilliant oratory in defending exalted human values Churchill for the deep spiritual insight and the artistic intensity with 1952 François Mauriac France 1885 which he has in his novels penetrated the drama of human life for the artistic vigour and true independence of mind with Pär Fabian 1951 Sweden 1891 which he endeavours in his poetry to find answers to the Lagerkvist eternal questions confronting mankind” Earl (Bertrand in recognition of his varied and significant writings in which he 1950 Arthur William) UK 1872 champions humanitarian ideals and freedom of thought Russell for his powerful and artistically unique contribution to the 1949 William Faulkner USA 1897 modern American novel Thomas Stearns for his outstanding, pioneer contribution to present-day poetry 1948 Eliot USA 1888 for his comprehensive and artistically significant writings, in André Paul 1947 France 1869 which human problems and conditions have been presented Guillaume Gide with a fearless love of truth and keen psychological insight for his inspired writings which, while growing in boldness and 1946 Hermann Hesse Germany 1877 penetration, exemplify the classical humanitarian ideals and high qualities of style for her lyric poetry which, inspired by powerful emotions, has 1945 Gabriela Mistral Chile 1889 made her name a symbol of the idealistic aspirations of the entire Latin American world for the rare strength and fertility of his poetic imagination with Johannes 1944 Denmark 1873 which is combined an intellectual curiosity of wide scope and a Vilhelm Jensen bold, freshly creative style 1943 No Nobel Prize for literature was awarded this year 1942 No Nobel Prize was awarded this year 1941 No Nobel Prize was awarded this year 1940 No Nobel Prize was awarded this year
issue 123 | October 2012 28 | CULTURE, RELIGION & ART
Literature Prizes (1901-1959) Year Name Nationalitiy Born Division of Prize Purpose for his deep understanding of his country’s peasantry and the 1939 Frans Eemil Finland 1888 exquisite art with which he has portrayed their way of life and Sillanpää their relationship with Nature for her rich and truly epic descriptions of peasant life in China 1938 Pearl Buck USA 1892 and for her biographical masterpieces for the artistic power and truth with which he has depicted 1937 Roger Martin du France 1881 human conflict as well as some fundamental aspects of con- Gard temporary life in his novel-cycle Les Thibault Eugene for the power, honesty and deep-felt emotions of his dramatic 1936 Gladstone O’Neill USA 1888 works, which embody an original concept of tragedy 1935 No Nobel Prize for literature was awarded this year 1934 Luigi Pirandello Italy 1867 for his bold and ingenious revival of dramatic and scenic art Ivan 1933 Alekseyevich Russia 1870 for the strict artistry with which he has carried on the classical Bunin Russian traditions in prose writing for his distinguished art of narration which takes its highest 1932 John Galsworthy UK 1867 form in The Forsyte Saga Erik Axel The poetry of Erik Axel Karlfeldt (The prize was awarded after 1931 Karlfeldt Sweden 1864 his death) for his vigorous and graphic art of description and his ability to 1930 Sinclair Lewis USA 1885 create, with wit and humour, new types of characters principally for his great novel, Buddenbrooks, which has won 1929 Thomas Mann Germany 1875 steadily increased recognition as one of the classic works of contemporary literature principially for her powerful descriptions of Northern life during 1928 Sigrid Undset Denmark 1882 the Middle Ages in recognition of his rich and vitalizing ideas and the brillant 1927 Henri Bergson France 1859 skill with which they have been presented for her idealistically inspired writings which with plastic clarity 1926 Grazia Deledda Italy 1871 picture the life on her native island and with depth and sympa- thy deal with human problems in general for his work which is marked by both idealism and humanity, 1925 George Bernard Ireland 1856 its stimulating satire often being infused with a singular poetic Shaw beauty Wladyslaw 1924 Stanislaw Poland 1867 for his great national epic, The Peasants Reymont William Butler for his always inspired poetry, which in a highly artistic form 1923 Yeats Ireland 1865 gives expression to the spirit of a whole nation Jacinto for the happy manner in which he has continued the illustrious 1922 Benavente Spain 1866 traditions of the Spanish drama in recognition of his brilliant literary achievements, charac- 1921 Anatole France France 1844 terized as they are by a nobility of style, a profound human sympathy, grace, and a true Gallic temperament Knut Pedersen 1920 Hamsun Norway 1859 for his monumental work, Growth of the Soil Carl Friedrich 1919 Georg Spitteler Switzerland 1845 in special appreciation of his epic, Olympian Spring 1918 No Nobel Prize for literature was awarded this year Karl Adolph was divided Gjellerup Denmark 1857 equally between for his varied and rich poetry, which is inspired by lofty ideals 1917 Karl Adolph Henrik Gjellerup Pontoppidan Denmark 1857 and Henrik for his authentic descriptions of present-day life in Denmark Pontoppidan Carl Gustaf 1916 Verner von Sweden 1859 in recognition of his significance as the leading representative Heidenstam of a new era in our literature
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Literature Prizes (1901-1959) Year Name Nationalitiy Born Division of Prize Purpose as a tribute to the lofty idealism of his literary production and 1915 Romain Rolland France 1866 to the sympathy and love of truth with which he has described different types of human beings 1914 No Nobel Prize for literature was awarded this year because of his profoundly sensitive, fresh and beautiful verse, by which, with consummate skill, he has made his poetic 1913 Rabindranath India 1861 Tagore thought, expressed in his own English words, a part of the literature of the West Gerhart primarily in recognition of his fruitful, varied and outstanding 1912 Johann Robert Germany 1862 production in the realm of dramatic art Hauptmann in appreciation of his many-sided literary activities, and Count Maurice especially of his dramatic works, which are distinguished by (Mooris) Polidore 1911 Belgium 1862 a wealth of imagination and by a poetic fancy, which reveals, Marie Bernhard sometimes in the guise of a fairy tale, a deep inspiration, while Maeterlinck in a my as a tribute to the consummate artistry, permeated with ideal- ism, which he has demonstrated during his long productive 1910 Paul Johann Germany 1830 Ludwig Heyse career as a lyric poet, dramatist, novelist and writer of world- renowned short stories in appreciation of the lofty idealism, vivid imagination and 1909 Selma Ottilia Sweden 1858 Lovisa Lagerlöf spiritual perception that characterize her writings in recognition of his earnest search for truth, his penetrating power of thought, his wide range of vision, and the warmth and 1908 Rudolf Christoph Germany 1846 Eucken strength in presentation with which in his numerous works he has vindicated and developed an idealistic philosophy of life in consideration of the power of observation, originality of 1907 Rudyard Kipling UK 1865 imagination, virility of ideas and remarkable talent for narration which characterize the creations of this world-famous author not only in consideration of his deep learning and critical research, but above all as a tribute to the creative energy, 1906 Giosuè Carducci Italy 1835 freshness of style, and lyrical force which characterize his poetic masterpieces Henryk because of his outstanding merits as an epic writer 1905 Sienkiewicz Poland 1846 in recognition of the fresh originality and true inspiration of his was divided poetic production, which faithfully reflects the natural scenery Frédéric Mistral France 1830 equally be- and native spirit of his people, and, in addition, his significant tween Frédéric work as a Provençal philologist 1904 Mistral and José in recognition of the numerous and brilliant compositions José Echegaray Echegaray y Spain 1832 Eizaguirre which, in an individual and original manner, have revived the y Eizaguirre great traditions of the Spanish drama Bjørnstjerne as a tribute to his noble, magnificent and versatile poetry, 1903 Martinus Norway 1832 which has always been distinguished by both the freshness of Bjørnson its inspiration and the rare purity of its spirit Christian Matthias the greatest living master of the art of historical writing, with 1902 Germany 1817 Theodor special reference to his monumental work, A history of Rome Mommsen in special recognition of his poetic composition, which gives Sully 1901 France 1839 evidence of lofty idealism, artistic perfection and a rare combi- Prudhomme nation of the qualities of both heart and intellect
issue 123 | October 2012 30 | CULTURE, RELIGION & ART
ULYP UNITE LEBANON YOUTH PROJECT
While hosting a barbecue for a group of disadvantaged Palestinian children at their property in Dibbiyeh, the Nimer family noticed how happy and UNITE at ease the children seemed running around and playing in the wide open LENANON space. Having seen the impact the continuous visits to Dibbiyeh had on the YOUTH children, the Nimer family, in memory of the late Rifaat Nimer, a loving PROJECT father, caring philanthropist, and esteemed role-model, decided to donate and dedicate their property to catering for all underprivileged communities in Lebanon, regardless of race, religion, politics, and nationality. Working with a committed team of architects, contractors, educational 8 = / ! & transformed her vision into reality: Unite Lebanon Youth Project.
ULYP’s current programs ULYP’s programs are based on the belief that education musical and/or art pieces through which values such as is the best investment leading to the development tolerance, honesty, and integrity are addressed. of society. ULYP acknowledges and respects the great role of schools and aims to complement their The Football for Friendship Program effort by providing services that sometimes remain The Football for Friendship program caters to boys and lacking to some and non-existent to others. The !> !I programs are offered year round, in modules of three teams. The program challenges children to excel months each. During a cycle of three months ULYP physically and mentally, through teaching valuable ‘s programs can serve up to 500 underserved and skills such as leadership, hard work, cooperation, underprivileged children and youth. ULYP’s diverse respect and perseverance which in turn translate beyond and interdisciplinary approach broadens the horizons ends with a tournament “the ULYP Cup” whereby the different age groups. 3 distributed in a fun closing ceremony concluding each The HAPPY Program module. The HAPPY (Healthy Alternative Program for Pre- schoolers and Youth) Program provides a head-start The SAT Prep Program & Scholarship Program program for 5 year olds from different underprivileged The SAT prep program is a year round program offered and underserved backgrounds in an environment in two groups, one for 11th graders and the other for structured for rediscovering nature’s way of learning. 12th graders. The program serves to prepare students The program allows for a developmentally appropriate for the SAT exam by enhancing students’ English, curriculum where learning is viewed as a positive Math, and test taking skills. The Scholarship program experience of inquiry and discovery, taking place both complements this effort by working closely with indoors and outdoors from scholarships that are made available to ULYP. The Art to Heart Program Media Production The Art to Heart Program is designed to offer an experience in music, art, theater and mosaics. The My Community through My Lens program serves children of two different age groups, The Media Productions Program focuses on young > ] D adolescents, ages 15 to 18, to enhance their IT and 7th graders. The children take part in a specialized media skills. The group of adolescents receives training workshop to learn about and produce mosaic, theater, on the content and skills necessary to produce short
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. CULTURE, RELIGION & ART | 31
and education scholarships through its extended identify topics such as community, healthy habits and network of donors, higher education institutions and scholarship funds. This year, the BRIDGE program was able to provide 60 Palestinian students with full scholarships to universities in Lebanon and abroad. ceremony. Frame by Frame For Peace The Weekend Retreats - Forsa Program The Frame by Frame for Peace program is a result of The weekend retreats are designed to offer children a pilot ULYP successfully launched last spring. It is an opportunity to experience overnight stays with designed to address the animosity between the youth children from other environments and get exposed living in Lebanon by bringing them together to produce to daily life and relationships. The program focuses ? on the development of positive self concept and is teaching the participants tangible skills and exposing character building and provides the participants with them to new means of expression. the opportunity to get to know each other closely as well as build their capacity in a new and interactive Back to Basics Program environment. ULYP hopes to launch Back to Basics as a pilot in the winter. The overall goal of the Back to Basics program is The STARS & SHINE Summer Projects to assist, secondary age students enrolled in vocational The STARS (Summer for Taking Action and schools, in the development of a concrete skill base Responsibility for Success) Program was a summer that facilitates their overall growth, development, and program that included art, sports, music, swimming, choices, enabling them to become effective leaders Thai boxing, volley ball and other educational programs in their schools and communities, as well as teaching and activities. The STAR program will continue to be them the values that ULYP believes are the sustaining offered in the summer when the children have the time force of human society and progress. ULYP is currently to spend whole days on our campus learning new skills submitting proposals and calls for funding to make this and living ULYP’s values. program happen.
The SHINE (Summer Help IN English) Program " targeted 7th and 8th graders that were at risk of failing The marginalized youth and children living in Lebanon their grade level due to their skills in the English do not have access to youth-friendly, age-appropriate, Language. This program includes intensive English core educationally- supportive services. In addition lessons interwoven with activities and trips. to this, the high level of animosity amongst them as a result of their perpetual isolation, has fostered Project M.O.M: Most Outstanding Mothers a generation unequipped with the skills, values, Along the lines of all our programs, we reach out to and basic necessities needed for individual success non-working mothers and invite them to participate in this program. The mothers meet three times a week to frustration and an ever increasing gap between the \ people of this small country. Unequal opportunities for as mothers. Topics include mediation within the home, education, livelihood and access to democratic values violence against women and children, reproductive lead only to an increase in violent activities, behavioral health, home economics as well as physical and disorders and a divided society. Thus ULYP’s goal is to psychological stages of child development. The address these problems at their root by providing this program also includes an introduction to technology, underserved population with the education and services keyboarding, and basic internet skills as well as they lack in an arena that will allow them to develop conversational English. and grow into responsible, tolerant, and understanding world citizens all the while empowering them to The BRIDGE program become successful leaders and advocates for the ULYP The BRIDGE program provides underprivileged values within their communities and beyond. Palestinian students comprehensive guidance
issue 123 | October 2012 32 | CULTURE, RELIGION & ART POPULAR CULTURE
ARABIC LANGUAGE INSTITUTE FOR NEW MISSIONARIES
% 5 7 I showed my skills in teaching colloquial Arabic. I waited paycheck. I was going to head for Beirut and buy… and buy. It 5 by the sweat of my brow. As a matter of fact, my brow did not sweat all that much, for I was practicing an easy delightful profession: sleep and tennis in the afternoon.
addressed me: “How much cash have you set aside so far?” I felt a sudden pang in my heart at that instant. He did not embarrass me though and proceeded kindly: “you had better help us now like we once helped you.” His words penetrated into my self and made me regret my thoughtless behavior.
Z >*
In September, an American lady preferred to stay in Souk el-Gharb to pursue her Arabic studies instead of going back to her work in Ramallah. September was a month of vacation. She asked ? we sealed the deal. I used to prefer staying in Souk el-Gharb to returning to Ras el-Matn. Souk el-Gharb is home to tennis playgrounds and lovely parties. How beautiful were those parties we used to attend at the place of our generous friend Elias Masaad, may his soul rest in peace!
One day, while I and my American student were taking a walk near Baysour, we sat on a rock to rest a little and she said to me: “may I ask you a personal question? I hesitated a lot before / P “Go ahead. I am all ears,” I replied
O 5 you ever thought about the future? This institute is going to close down after a while, and the / O P ? / is stretching ahead of you. Don’t you aspire to something bigger than this simple profession?”
I had. The future? That was never on my agenda.
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. DEBUNKING MYTH #62 CULTURE, RELIGION & ART | 33
THE VERY FIRST A TO Z PHOENICIAN, UGARITIC OR EGYPTIAN?
Myth: The Phoenician alphabet, called the Proto-Canaanite alphabet, was the initial language from which all other Mediterranean languages were to emerge. The Phoenician civilization developed this script and spread it out to other civilizations that it was in contact with.
Reality: ? know today as Lebanon or Syria. At two different locations on the Mediterranean shore, both countries have % N ? + 5 !! +Z away, in the city of Ras Shamra in Syria, a number of clay tablets were found with inscriptions dating back to the !# !> +Z 5 j of this controversial debate and scholars are now channeling their attention to another location, Egypt.
5 + 5 ` & N !""* ~ & 5 + \ & 5 !QI* +Z [ Q** + % 5 !=$ & scripts are the earliest known examples of an alphabet. The only form of writing that can precede them was started & ` >* +Z replaced by alphabetic writing in the 1st century BC.
? Z alphabet. Further up north in Sinai and the Palestinian region occupied by the Canaanites, archeologists have found evidence of an alphabet from the 1600s BC, i.e. 200 years younger than those at Wadi el Hol (Sandana). These inscriptions demonstrate similarities to both the Wadi el Hol inscriptions as well as the Phoenician inscriptions from Ahiram’s tomb that date to 600 years later. In response to our inquiry, this suggests that the alphabet may have traveled north until it fully developed with the Phoenicians.
Scholars studying the inscriptions in Sinai have argued that the Semitic alphabet could have Egyptian origins % 5 !=$ N and later adopted by the Canaanites and Phoenicians. The Phoenicians did however spread this knowledge across & [ & ? j + fact this expansion that may have created the misconceptions about the Phoenician alphabet (quoted in Sandana). Greek legends always credited the Phoenicians with the creation of the alphabet, simply because they did not know of any developments prior to its existence.
References:
- Fellman, Bruce. “The Birthplace of the ABCs.” Yale Alumni Magazine. Dec 2000: n. page. Web. 17 Mar. 2012.
issue 123 | October 2012 34 | CULTURE, RELIGION & ART MUST-READ BOOKS THE POLITICS OF ANTI-SEMITISM
This anthology, edited by Alexander Cockburn and Jeffrey St. Clair, offers an assessment of the principle of anti- Semitism versus its rather abrupt use in the defense of Israeli policies. The under-lining message found in most essays in this book is that today, the term has been rendered a weapon in the hands of pro-Israeli politicians, lobbyists and activists against any disagreement with Israeli ? 3 / \ 5 [ / his account of how this is played out. For him the harsh academics and activists in the 18 essays that explore anti- criticism came in the form of hate mail and counter articles Semitism through three main themes: opposition to Israeli that reached the extent of death threats. Of the incidents policy, the media, and Jewish lobbying in the United States. he has reported, two found extremely cruel responses; the covering of the Qana massacre in 1996, and questioning the In the broader sense, the book discusses the discourse motives behind 9/11. One’s opinions on the United States of anti-Semitism in Israeli politics. Scott Handleman 5 7 ` R D!$ highlights the distinction between anti-Semitism in its etymological sense as the irrational hatred of Jews and & ? its equation with any opposition to Israel. He warns that Edward Said. Alam explains the case for the academic this misuse would not only intensify anti-Israel sentiment boycott of Israel and how this call for nonviolent around the world, but also trivialize and undermine Jewish resistance was twisted by the media and academics to history. An interesting logic of the term as a political weapon imply support of terrorism. Said raises an interesting 3 ~ point about how studies of suicide bombers have never good idea for Israel to label all opposition anti-Semitic, the been paralleled with studies of the Israeli ‘Sharonian’ atrocities committed against Palestinians almost make anti- Semitism a moral obligation. Racially based acts should be advises that Arab society be studied with a comparative condemned, but resisting them should not. approach and not outside its context.
Linda Belanger raises another inadequacy about the Finally, the sensitive topic of the Jewish lobby is discussed. rationale of anti-Semitism. The misconception that all Jews Bruce Jackson refers to studies of the American Jewish 5 & population to refute the lobby’s approach of ‘all Jews think This victimization of Jews as a pretext for violence has 5 R / become so exaggerated that another holocaust is now fashioned anti-Semitism. Will Youmans is skeptical of the taking place in Palestine. To quote her: “when the victim unconditional US aid to a country with a shameful human rights becomes the oppressor, we know that we have learned record. Jeffrey St. Clair’s detailed account of the suppression P I!$ ? / of investigations into the attacks on USS Liberty begs the others has now become enough to make one anti-Semitic. question of which country has more control over the other. On But it is this prosecution, writes Uri Averni, that is a similar note, Jeffrey Blankfort cites the pressure by the lobby exacerbating Jewish hatred around the world. on American politicians to refute the argument that it is the US who is in the use of Israel. As he points out, Israel has not yet A few of the essays give concrete examples of how this ? / / 5 The essays presented in this book are very courageous in speaking of how the media disseminates more criticism of the out about a topic that unfortunately remains controversial. The ‘anti-Semitic left’ every time Israeli violence reaches a theoretical reasoning coupled with concrete examples offer a height. In politics, he provides an ample example of how good eye-opener to the reader about how certain ideals can be this lobby is quick to pour campaign funds to opponents manipulated. It comes as no surprise that most of the contributors of candidates with any anti-Israel or pro-Arab vision. have been labeled anti-Semites themselves. According to him, the Jewish lobby in the US functions / Cockburn, Alexander, and St.Clair Jeffrey , ed. The Politics of Anti- Semitism. California: Counterpunch and AK Press, 2003. 1-172. Print.
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. MUST-READ CHILDREN’S BOOK CULTURE, RELIGION & ART | 35
ATLAS OF CHILDREN
ILLUSTRATED ATLAS SERIES
By Valerie LeDoux. Arabic 7 3 N Arabic edition by Uwaydat for Publishing and Printing in Beirut in 2007.
The Illustrated Atlas Series is aimed to improve the intellectual development of a child and is recommended for children between 9 and 12 years old.
ATLAS OF CHILDREN Atlas of Children introduces children, through short and simple texts, to the countries and continents of the world. Filled with vivid pictures and illustrations, this book takes children over (Europe, Asia, America, Africa and Oceania) and diverse countries, thus giving them a chance to amass more information about the nature, culture, climate, population, heritage and economy of those countries in order to further their knowledge and conceptualize and understand the lives and activities of the peoples of the world.
This book includes colorful and entertaining pictures that facilitate the understanding of the contents and impart the information in a
The Illustrated Atlas Series includes: Atlas of the Oceans Atlas of the Nature Animal Atlas
issue 123 | October 2012 36 | CULTURE, RELIGION & ART LEBANON FAMILIES
FREIJ FAMILIES SYRIANS FROM HAWRAN
/ ? & Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan, Egypt and KSA, but no evidence has been found to attest / / & / & + others for Damascus and the rest were spread in the other remaining countries.
% >I* / / & + & Orthodox members distributed across Beirut.
Sunni: #]> & _ 3 ` R _ !]> Dakraman (Saida): 55 Berghlieh (Tyre): 11
+ / & $_ Q Tripoli
Wadi Khaled (Akkar): 7 Zgharta Balamand Roads Choueifat (Aley): 6 A‘arjes Sarafand (Saida): 4 Ehden Becharre The Cedars ~ & $_ > Batroun Hadet Hasroun Ras Baalbeck Deir el Ahmar 5$_ > Maqne Qasr el-Banat
+ $_ > Hadath Jbail Iaat Baalbeck Jounieh Ghazir Greek Orthodox: there are 64 Greek Orthodox members Niha distributed in: BEIRUT Zahle ? _ #I Baabda Shtaura Aley Dahr el-Baidar Bhamdoun Ras Beirut: 24 Anjar Mazra’a: 14 Deir el-Qamar Meshref Beiteddine Moukhtara Yanta Maronite: there are 22 Maronite members distributed in: Qaraoun Lake Saida Jezzine 5 3 $_ !I Libbaya Aiha 7 3 $_ =
Nabatiye Hasbaya Greek Catholic: there are 8 Greek Catholic members Marjayoun Beaufort Castle distributed in: Sour Sibnai (Baabda): 4 Hadath Qebli (Baalbeck): 4
There are also 8 Latin members in Dar Mreisseh and 7 Syrian Orthodox in Mdawwar.
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. DISCOVER LEBANON CULTURE, RELIGION & ART | 37
AN-NABI SHEET A HEZBOLLAH TOWN 7 ? 3 ? & is member of Eastern Baalbeck municipalities’ union. Etymology Its share in the Independent Municipal Fund in 2010 In his book Names of Lebanese Towns and Villages, was LBP 645.7 million compared to LBP 549.2 million ? O? & P in 2009. The town has 10 Makhateer distributed over originated from the Hebrew name “Seth”, who was the 8 neighborhoods, one in each neighborhood, with the third son of Adam and Eve. Some claim that Prophet [ ~ > & ? & $ Makhateer. was thus named after him, while others contradict this suggestion, saying that Prophet Seth was buried in Iraq. Educational institutions ? & _ Location ? & & _ I" ? & R + 5 #> in the Mohafaza of Beqa’a to the north of the Beqa’a ? & & _ #"# valley cutting across the western slopes of the Lebanon. ]> The town overlooks the valley and rests at an altitude of ? & _ ### !> 1220 m above the sea level. It lies 80 km from Beirut, and staff ># 5 R + 5 >! ? 3 & _ DQI ]> km from the Mohafaza center. It spreads across 1777 staff Sareen Tahta- Sareen Fawqa. Archaeological sites ? & Population including the shrines of Abou Fadl Abbas and of Prophet The number of registered inhabitants in the town’s Seth, the latter has been renovated several times. personal status register is estimated at 10 000 people belonging to the Shia’a sect. There are about 2000 Economic activities >** ? The town is known for its seasonal crops and vast areas & of its land are planted every year with almond trees and grapes. Part of the population resorts to keeping cattle to Voters / In 2000, the number of voters in the town was 4795 of depend on commerce and expatriate remittances. whom 2880 cast their ballots. This number increased to A registry with authority over 5 neighboring towns is I>]] #**I >DQQ #**" ? & the number reached 6089 voters with 4174 casting their ? & ballots. abundant water resources. Residents exploit these / ? resources to sell potable water, which provides further 3 & 5 ` / $ employment opportunities in the town. addition to other small families: Al-Moussawi: #D*> Shokr: 1292- Hazima: ` 254- Halbawi: !"> Haj Hassan_ => Housseini: I> This Beqa’a town is known for its staunch support Nasser: 47- Qontar: >Q Shouman: 26- Ibrahim: of Hezbollah, for it is the hometown of the former 45- Hassan: 28- Massri: 26- Qassem: 24- Saleh Hezbollah Secretary General Sayyed Abbas Al- Al-Moussawi: 21- Qontar Housseini: 21- Sayyed Moussawi who was assassinated by Israel in 1991. His Ibrahim: 15 grave has become a shrine, which is often visited by Hezbollah’s allies and proponents. Among the other Local authorities ? & Baath Minister Fayez Shokr, MP and Agriculture !"D> = 3 / 3N ? the council is composed of 15 members and headed Moussawi.
issue 123 | October 2012 38 | CULTURE, RELIGION & ART
CIVIL STRIFE INTRO (8) THE BATTLE OF TAL EL-ZAATAR
Following the Hotels’ War, another attack was launched in the Palestinian camps under the control of the Phalanges and the National Liberal Party with the aim of expelling Palestinians from their refugee camps.
As shells came down, militants started to progress along that occurred on Wednesday, 7th of January 1976. 5 between the trees and the buildings. Two mortar shells the most heinous battle recorded since the outbreak of R & incidents. The supply route stretched from Jisr el-Basha 7 [ to Sin el-Fil passing through Horsh Tabet, Dekwaneh, \ X 5 R 7 As the attackers approached Al-Hayek roundabout, \N^ R { \ vehicle. The vehicle was also targeted by three heavy Why did violence spark again despite the agreements on shells, which immediately broke down its engine and \ 5 / % 7 X displacement issue in the Cabinet and the Coordination Committee? gendarmerie in Dekwaneh demanding reinforcements, and Lieutenant Said Eid hurried to the site in a The climate was relatively peaceful yesterday, when commando armored vehicle and rushed his peer to the 5 \ + Geitawi Hospital. 5 expected to reach the Phalanges’ center in Jdeideh and 3 head from there toward the camp, escorted by militant of Tanios Saba (a Phalanges politburo member) and members as agreed between PM Rashid Karami and shells were pouring on Sin el-Fil “like rain”, as stated Sheikh Amine Gemayel. The latter had made phone calls to ensure that the residents did not obstruct the the latest developments. Those shells were aimed in free passage of the trucks and remained faithful to their particular at Mar Elias Street and only a few, if any, of responsiveness to lift the siege of the camp against the the gendarme checkpoints set up along the road survived liberation of the Karantina, the return of the displaced to X 5 7 + R \ X 5 and the spreading of a safe and secure environment in #_!I ? Mkaless to prompt workers back into their factories. Q** were also launched from near the Engineering Faculty However, “give and take” surrounded the matter and in Mar Roukoz toward Horsh Tabet, Sin el-Fil and the it seemed that the phone calls were stopped suddenly presidential palace area. !_** trucks to pull over and await the security developments, The clashes grew more ferocious and an outpour which were not very promising. of mortar shells targeted Sin el-Fil, the gendarme checkpoints and the houses and the streets in the area. ? 5 !_>* ? > from Dekwaneh to Horsh Tabet passing through Sin el- Tanios Saba and to detain the gendarmes in there. The ? clashes expanded afterwards toward Dekwaneh, and the heavy weapons, artillery, bombs, burning missiles and Soulaf area, the Chami building and the gendarmerie mortars to name only a few. were bombarded heavily.
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. CULTURE, RELIGION & ART | 39
5 >_>Q R At 9:15 pm, security sources reported that the militants direction of the forces positioned in the Klinex area and had withdrawn from Tanios Saba palace and its [ I_!I neighborhoods and that the communication with the 7 + ? free Dr. Hayek, the nun and the three employees of the 7 + 5 hospital along with the 19 gendarmes. Al-Hayek Hospital, the neighboring Jabra building and the old presidential palace area. They kidnapped the Phalanges’ statement director of the hospital, Dr. George Hayek, along with % N R 3 Ghabi Tamer, a nurse, a nun and two other employees issued the following: and shot two people who happened to be in the patient- free hospital. The gendarmes tasked with guarding the “As per the request of PM Rashid Karami, Sheikh Amin hospital were also detained and transferred along with Gemayel headed after midnight on Tuesday to Sin el-Fil Dr. Hayek, the nurse and other gendarmes to Jisr el- to persuade the inhabitants, supporters and Phalanges Basha camp. The number of the detained gendarmes \ 5 reached 19. armed inhabitants withdrew from the streets to allow The gunmen had earlier occupied Tarabay Hospital, and the passage of food provisions. Meantime, militant % & members seized the opportunity to sneak into Horsh force at the Saloumi’s roundabout and was rushed to Tabet and position themselves in strategic areas such the hospital aboard a security forces’ carrier where he as al-Hayek Hospital, Tanios Saba’s palace and the old underwent emergency surgery. presidential palace.
The moment the news reached Sin el-Fil and its vicinity, parties, especially in the Jabra building, which housed the inhabitants hurried to discuss the matter with the 5 leaders of the region. Suddenly, violence erupted and ablaze. ~ \ In response to the deteriorating security situation and ` / the failure of the phone calls made between the leaders 5 ^ & 3 5 ^ ` of the forces deployed in Horsh Tabet, especially that & 55 R the forces had threatened to break into people’s houses, broke down and lieutenants Joseph Deeb and Samir Elia quick measures were taken to set up a security cordon / = [ to separate the area occupied by militants from the rest \N^ to the buildings, the commercial and industrial shops that they would retaliate against any attack, and indeed, and private properties.” 5 5 armored vehicles. Palestinians’ statement The Popular Front issued in its turn the following At 2:44 pm two mortar shells from unknown origins statement: landed in Horsh Tabet and Soulaf and sniping erupted “The army artillery launched yesterday concentrated between Ghazal Street and Dahr el-Jamal. 5 @ N ? O~? ?P to lift the blockade on the camp. The shelling resulted / ? O% 3 P _ half of shelling, the counter vehicles dared numerous “the national forces are still spread in the areas that were attempts to break into Horsh Tabet, noting that the occupied earlier this morning to lift the siege of Tal el- battles were still raging in that area until the preparation X 5 of this statement at 10 pm.” In a statement issued later, Horsh Tabet. Any counter statements made by any other the Popular Front revealed that 6 of its members were party are only aimed to boost the collapsing spirits.” 5
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The capital’s east-southern suburb was not exempted He added: “the government insists on the commitment of both parties to the need of opening the roads and X 5 7 + \ urges the Coordination Committee to convene and reach Attacks and counter-attacks using mortar cannons, P heavy weapons and rocket-propelled grenades were exchanged between Jisr el-Basha, Tohwita and Furn Toueini wondered whether the Phalanges had taken a Chebbak on the one hand and between Jisr el-Basha and decision to escalate the frequency and severity of violence Horsh Tabet on the other. 7 + assured that this had never occurred and that they tried 7 + \ to no avail. Minister Toueini reiterated the stance of the witnessed pitched clashes that lasted all night while government on the incidents while the representatives [ 7 of parties and the resistance left afterwards to hold their el-Basha, Hazmieh, Tohwita and Furn Chebbak, and discussions. They returned showing readiness to attend blocked all the roadways in the region. the meeting of the Committee, but displayed reserve 5 Stance of the government: No blockade 5 Minister Ghassan Toueini asserted to both parties that was tied to the improvement of the security situation the government was totally against the presence of a 5 food blockade and called on them to respect this stance the delivery at night and would rather carry on with this and announce their full commitment to it. N % N
From the book “Lebanon’s Wars: Why?” Published by: (Inma)
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. MEDIA |41
INFRINGEMENTS ON COASTAL PROPERTY From the eruption of the 1975 civil war until its end in 1990, there were \ | stretching along 220 km from North to South has been subjected to the most rampant encroachments in the form of illegal constructions of new tourist facilities and expansions of existing ones. The handling of these violations, through the cancellation “…Preserving the Lebanese coast and taking of some and the settlement of others after obtaining all the measures necessary to solve the problem of encroachments upon the public coastal property for the political debate that has been simmering since the end of % ” (ministerial statement of Saad the civil war. In their ministerial statements, most of the R #**"$ succeeding governments addressed this issue through a clause dedicated to settling the seaside violations and “ + R the collection of fees. Many political demands have oil, water and public coastal and riverine property… ` and working on accelerating the approval of the draft R law aimed at handling the coastal property violations” fallen on deaf ears and the seaside land has remained a / 3 5 R relinquished property with wasted revenues. Chances July 2011) are there might have been collusive actions to prevent the settlement of the above over the years, especially “The Ministry of Public Works and Transportation is responsible for all the violations menacing the coastal ranking dignitaries. properties and the Public Property Act stipulates that there cannot be any settlement for such violations” In what follows, we highlight sections of the ministerial (statement by MP Mohammad Qabbani in April 2011) and political statements tackling this issue: “…we support the removal of immunity from all those “… Reconsideration of the investment of public encroaching on coastal public property” (statement by property, especially coastal one” (ministerial statement Minister of Public works and Transportation Ghazi of Rashid As-Solh’s government- May 1992) Aridi in April 2011) “… Raising the revenues can be possible through a “Where do we stand regarding the settlement of the proper collection of public property taxes” (ministerial for decades” (statement by Walid Jumblat in June 1992) 2012) “…The government will work on addressing the coastal property violations” (ministerial statement of Omar Karami’s government- October 2004) “…Given the importance of preserving the Lebanese shoreline, which is one of the greatest treasures of Lebanon, the government will cooperate with Parliament to re-organize the coast in a manner that guarantees the rights of the people, and to solve the violations threatening the seaside land” (ministerial statement of Fouad Seniora’s government- July 2008) Infringements on Coastal Property_Ozai Photo by Mohamad Mashlab
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APPROVAL OF THE PROPORTIONALITY-BASED ELECTORAL LAW PROMPTS CONFLICTING REACTIONS ARREST OF FORMER MINISTER MICHEL SAMAHA FOR SMUGGLING WEAPONS EMERGENCE OF THE MEQDADS MILITARY WING CALLS FOR THE OPENING OF QULAYA’AT AIRPORT POPE TO PAY VISIT TO LEBANON AS SCHEDULED RENEWAL OF CLASHES IN TRIPOLI MARCH 14 FORCES DEMAND THE DISMISSAL OF THE SYRIAN AMBASSADOR A LEBANESE PRISONER RELEASED AFTER 27 YEARS IN SYRIAN PRISONS
August 2 Sheikh Ahmad al-Assir ends Security defends its decision to deport, Army and Security Forces members >I saying that the deported Syrians had / Minister of Interior and Municipalities committed violations and criminal of the cannabis crops in al-Yammouneh Marwan Charbel in Saida. acts. and Dar al-Wasia’a. President, Prime Minister and the The Cabinet approves loans for Speaker attend a ceremony marking the Higher Relief Committee to help August 6 the Army Day in Fayyadiyeh and Syrian refugees and PSP and Hezbollah Minister of Interior and #]I engage in a row over the deportation of Municipalities Marwan Charbel visits President Suleiman stresses in his Syrians during the session. al- Yammouneh in an attempt to open the speech that the Army shall remain the Fouad Seniora condemns the roads that were blocked in protest over only shield for Lebanon’s sovereignty deportation of the 14 Syrians and the destruction of the cannabis crops. He and security. reiterates that the sit-in of Sheikh Al- promises to halt the destruction process The monthly statement issued Assir has ended but its demands are and to compensate the affected cannabis by the Maronite bishops warns that still standing. farmers upon approval of the Cabinet. Lebanon might become a bankrupt N3 \ 5 state and calls for its disassociation August 4 in Doha and meets the Qatari Crown \ Fouad Seniora and March 14 Forces Prince and PM. N3 / 3 5 > 3N j j & “Lebanon should not expel any plan aimed at supporting the army at General representatives and voice their person back to a country submerged the cost of USD 1.6 billion. concern over the fate of the deported in violence”, says the US ambassador Hezbollah’s Secretary General Syrians holding the government to Lebanon Maura Connelli to Voix du & accountable. Liban in reference to the deportation of Hezbollah will not boycott the dialogue “It is not permissible to politicize Syrians. and will support the discussion on the / P Syria releases the 14 Syrians defense and liberation strategy. N3 / 3 5 deported by Lebanon. held at the Serail, inferring approval of August 3 the deportation of the Syrians. August 7 MP Walid Jumblat condemns the President Suleiman to move to his Families of the kidnapped pilgrims deportation of 14 Syrians and calls for summer residence in Beiteddine on block the road to the airport calling on the resignation of the chief of General Saturday. the government to settle the abduction Security, General Abbas Ibrahim, An agreement between the Amal issue and threatening to escalate their considering along other March 14 Movement, Hezbollah and the Free measures to resolve the issue. Forces that the deported Syrians Patriotic Movement puts an end to the The Cabinet convenes in Beiteddine are political refugees. The General protest of EDL contract workers. Palace to continue the discussion
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. AUGUST 2012 HIGHLIGHTS MEDIA |43 on the draft parliamentary law and August 9 US Department of State warns of / [ The Cabinet approves higher taxes terrorist acts that might be attempted session, deciding to form a committee on coastal properties. in Europe and imposes sanctions on to handle the cannabis cultivation issue March 14 Forces MPs claim that the Hezbollah for its alleged military in Beqa’a. draft electoral law paves the way for a support of the Syrian regime. The US & R civil war (Ammar Houry). embassy in Beirut urges American Security Council Said Jalili arrives in “We call for the discussion of the citizens to beware of potential attacks. % % electoral law out of our keenness on fair The Lebanese Army Command Like Saad Hariri, Jumblat slams Jalili’s representation and national interest”, urges the public prosecution to start visit urging him to provide food for his & 5 + legal action against MP Mouin Merhebi. people instead of distributing military Clashes erupt between the allies Greek Catholic Patriarch Gregorius arsenal here and there. and rivals (Future Movement and other III Lahham condemns the manner of Hezbollah’s Secretary General Islamic forces) of Sheikh Hachem the arrest of Michel Samaha, warning Menqara in Mina in Tripoli. ` / stressing that the weaponry of the Sheikh Ahmad Al Assir protests in \ August 10 the Tariq El Jdeedy Area of Beirut after electoral results or be used internally. Lebanon’s intelligence branch Friday Prayers to support the Syrian He adds that the Shia’a will not be the arrests former minister and MP Michel opposition, praising the Lebanese ruling sect. Samaha at his residence in Jouwar under intelligence for arresting Samaha. charges of smuggling weapons from August 8 Syria to commit terrorist acts aimed August 13 The Cabinet holds a session at the at igniting strife between Muslims and Referral of former Minister Michel Presidential Palace and approves the Christians in north Lebanon. Samaha to the Military Court after he proportionality-based draft electoral “We will not remain silent on & 3 / % !> Samaha’s arrest. We have experienced General Ali Mamlouk and another districts in addition to an expatriate these security fabrications for so Brigadier General in the Syrian district. MPs of the Democratic / 5 intelligence with forming a group to Gathering Bloc voice their protest suspicious security agencies”, MP commit crimes in Lebanon; people over the approval and Minister Wael Mohammad Raad says. protest in solidarity with Samaha. Bou Faour says that the draft law Addressing an Editor’s Syndicate President Michel Suleiman meets will navigate risky waters before its N3 / 3 5 & 3 / ^ ? \ N that Samaha’s arrest has nothing to head of the intelligence branch Wissam Former PM Saad Hariri refuses the & % Hassan in Beiteddine and praises them electoral draft law and assures that it N for averting a terrorist plot targeting will not see the light. the approval of the draft electoral law. Lebanon. PM Walid Jumblat later & 5 ? 5 Attacks on BLOM Bank in Elissar receives the two visitors in Moukhtara. behalf of the families of the kidnapped / ? Canadian Minister of Foreign pilgrims warning of further escalation who happened to be in the bank and ? % during a protest in front of the attempted to prevent the robbery. Turkish embassy. The families of the “We will go back to the Orthodox kidnapped throw the responsibility August 11 proposition if proportionality does not at the government and the President MP Walid Jumblat holds a dinner pass”, General Michel Aoun reports. of the Republic and threaten to target banquet in Moukhtara in honor of Sheikh Omar Bakri condemns the 5 j % President Michel Suleiman in the presence Pope’s visit to Lebanon that takes place The top three leaders in the country of a number of ministers and MPs. next September. Investigations continue into the N & case of Michel Samaha. August 14 Poorest Families. Families of the kidnapped pilgrims Maronite Patriarch Mar Bechara ? in Syria stage a protest in front of Boutros al-Rai begins his 4-day ] \ 3 Qatar’s embassy in Beirut and threaten pastoral visit to Akkar and stresses that of Justice building. to target the Qataris and their property the Syrian shelling of Akkar towns in Lebanon. must cease, applauding the arrest
issue 123 | October 2012 44| MEDIA AUGUST 2012 HIGHLIGHTS
of Minister Michel Samaha, which Frangieh and Samir Geagea. The session Al-Meqdad clan announces the averted strife. witnesses debate between former PM Interrogation of Minister Michel Fouad Seniora and MP Mohammad Raad. military activity and is waiting for Samaha continues at the Military Court 3 @ >* &? positive developments. and Samaha’s defense attorneys make members to be freed upon the release a direct legal claim against General of Hassan Meqdad. August 21 ? \ Z ~ Armed military groups in Tripoli al-Hassan on charges of leaking 4 of the Lebanese pilgrims in Syria announce the formation of Sunni Military information. during an air raid on the town of Azaz. Council in response to the abductions King Abdulla Abdul Aziz holds an Families of the pilgrims protest by performed by Al-Meqdad clan. Iftar banquet in honor of former PM blocking the road to the airport. The US seizes USD 150 million Saad Hariri and the Qatari PM. The The Cabinet approves the pay hike as a part of a crackdown on a money Iftar coincided with the presence of PM for the public sector employees and the laundering scheme linked to the / 3 5 &? formation of a committee to follow up Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. Former President Amine Gemayel on the abducted pilgrims’ case and PM Mild clashes between Jabal Mohsen calls for the elimination of the Fraternity Mikati stresses that blocking the road and Bab Tebbaneh result in two deaths Treaty with Syria considering that the to the airport shall never be repeated. #* / “Army, People, Resistance” slogan is a French Minister of Foreign Affairs The Sunni and the Shia’a celebrate heresy. Laurent Fabius arrives in Lebanon and Eid al-Fitr on Sunday 19 across all MP Michel Murr announces his % Lebanese regions. opposition to the proportionality law the means of assistance to the Syrian and urges to keep Matn as is or split it refugees. visit of the Pope to Lebanon. into 2 districts. August 18 August 22 August 15 “Our response to any potential Clashes between Jabal Mohsen and President Michel Suleiman Israeli attack will cost Israel thousands Bab Tebbaneh leave 6 dead and 50 tours Jbeil and stops at a number of P / / of Jerusalem Day stressing that the “In times of folly, the state is the “The dangers stem from the internal, abductees’ case has become a source only refuge,” Speaker Berri says, not external villainous acts”, he says. for political blackmailing and that warning of severe punishment for Patriarch al-Rai continues his visit some groups are beyond the control of whoever blocks the road to the airport. to Akkar and extends his condolences Hezbollah and Amal Movement. ^ to the sons of Sheikh Abdul Wahed, Lebanese Forces leader Samir in Tripoli calls for the punishment of who give him their father’s rosary. Geagea urges President Michel some Lebanese Army soldiers and The Free Syrian Army arrests the & N3 / 3 5 Lebanese national Hassan Meqdad to abandon their centrist position, / claiming that he was serving as a announce a state of emergency and Damascus General Prosecutor Hezbollah sniper in Syria. Hezbollah open Qulaya’at Airport. 3 % / & denies the claims and the Meqdad family Minister of Interior and / assures that Hassan was in Syria for legal Municipalities Marwan Charbel heads % 3N reasons, threatening to kidnap Syrian for Turkey to discuss the issue of the accused of funding and arming the nationals if Hassan is not released. Lebanese abductees in Syria. rebels in Syria. The Future Bloc urges Cabinet to “I don’t owe anyone for my suspend the security agreement signed presidency and I had nominated August 23 with Syria and refer the Samaha case 3 3 X to the STL. for two years,” President Suleiman tells clashes continue in Tripoli resulting in a delegation of the Alumni Association !* Q* / August 17 stressing that he is still awaiting a phone N3 / 3 5 The national dialogue committee call from Syrian President Bashar Assad unless the violence and bloodshed headed by President Michel Suleiman regarding the arrest of Samaha and escalates and expresses concerns over convenes in Beiteddine in the absence of adding: “I saw the quantity of explosives further engagement of Lebanon in the & 5 + 3N & with my own eyes and it’s terrifying.” & \
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. AUGUST 2012 HIGHLIGHTS MEDIA |45
Phalanges students stage a protest will not be lifted off MP Mouin in front of the Ministry of Foreign Merhebi and Merhebi’s supporters Aligned Movement summit. Affairs in condemnation of its support hold gatherings in solidarity with his Accusatory committee of Beirut of the Syrian regime. case. decides to release Wissam Alaeddine, Kuwaiti citizen abducted in Beqa’a. arrested for attacking al-Jadeed TV, ] &? Persistence of sniping rounds on a 1 million LBP bail and residents & in Tripoli and the Army continues @ @ + town of Jousieh. its efforts to prevent the renewal of celebration. clashes. Cabinet postpones discussions on August 24 Z & [ The Minister of Justice refers groups and Hezbollah members approves credits for alternatives for the demand to lift immunity off MP X & cannabis farmers. Mouin Merhebi to Parliament, and members dead. The report of the technical security 3 5 ? / Commander to resign. August 28 Beirut and headed for France, says that MP Walid Jumblat urges not to use Abducted Kuwaiti citizen released data mining is considered a violation in Tripoli as a bargaining chip. in Beqa’a following the mediation of the French Constitution Former PM Saad Hariri denies Berri with families in Brital. having received a 4 billion dollar aid General Michel Aoun receives a August 31 from KSA and Qatar as claimed by Hezbollah delegation in Rabieh in the Judge Sakr Sakr transfers former LBC accusing television station’s presence of Gebran Bassil. Minister Michel Samaha from his Managing Director Pierre al-Daher of ? 5 / previous detention center in the military holding several meetings with Syrian shop owner in Sarafand. tribunal to al-Rihaniyeh military prison 3 / ^ ? Phalange Party member Yaacoub for security reasons. Mamlouk. Chamoun released after 27 years in One gendarme killed and one Minister of Interior and Syrian prisons. / + 5 Municipalities receives the families of President Michel Suleiman meets the Lebanese abductees in Syria in the August 29 Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali presence of the General Security chief, “I am willing to forge alliances with Khamenei and Iranian and Egyptian Brigadier Abbas Ibrahim. the Phalanges and the Lebanese Forces presidents. / j & Z [ August 25 through the adoption of the Orthodox mandate of the peacekeeping force in Gunmen burn down Alawi shops proposition,” Michel Aoun tells OTV. Lebanon for another year. and businesses in Tripoli against the The Lebanese Army Intelligence backdrop of the clashes between Jabal arrests the gang involved in the series September 1 Mohsen and Bab Tebbaneh. The total of bank robberies that targeted the Amal Movement commemorates death toll rises to 10 in addition to over country. the 24th anniversary of the !** / disappearance of Imam Mussa Sadr The daughter of Dany Chamoun, August 30 & 5 Tracy Chamoun establishes a new March 14 Forces youths and Berri urges national unity to prevent political party. students’ bodies stage a protest in front the reverberations of the turmoil in Media representatives meet the of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Syria from spilling over into Lebanon. Minister of Information to discuss the ? The PSP stages a protest at the current situation in Lebanon. the stances of the Lebanese Foreign Samir Kassir Garden downtown to Minister and call for the dismissal of the condemn the crimes of the Syrian August 27 Syrian ambassador from Lebanon. On regime and call for the expulsion of the Deputy Iranian Foreign Minister the other hand, the Syrian ambassador Syrian ambassador. Hussein Amir Abdul Lahyan meets receives a number of Lebanese allies Anti-Assad demonstrations in % and says: “demanding my dismissal Tripoli demand the expulsion of the Lebanese hostage Hussein Omar gets \ 5 P Syrian ambassador and the execution released following Turkish mediation. A Lebanese delegation headed by of Michel Samaha. Ahmad Hariri assures that immunity President Michel Suleiman arrives
issue 123 | October 2012 46|ARAB WORLD FOCUS
FEMALE SPORTS A THREAT TO ISLAMIC UNITY
On March 20th, crown prince and deputy prime minister of Saudi Arabia Nayef bin Abdul Aziz, announced that Saudi Arabia would no longer prohibit women from participating in this year’s Olympics. While female sports are generally banned in Saudi Arabia, the prince made this concession on the condition that female athletes still abided by the standards of dress implied by Islamic laws. But should there be any female participants from the kingdom, they will only be doing so by invite and not by sponsorship or nomination of the Saudi government (something it has never extended to female athletes). The circumstances of women in the sports sector have been the topic of a heated debate among religious scholars and members of the ruling family. Consequently, a number of gyms were closed down in 2010 and restrictions are still imposed on others. Public schools and universities have never provided physical education for women. Some private institutions do, but always in a clandestine manner.
To outline this debate, it is a push and pull force between & #">$ 3 O clerics who oppose female participation in sports because obliging his father to teach him writing, swimming, and it sets women on the “path of immorality” (HRW 29), and archery” (quoted in Sfeir 294). It is widely agreed that the [ & 5 word ‘child’ in Arabic refers to both boys and girls. Abdallah al-Mani’i of the Council for Religious Scholars worried about the ‘health’ of unmarried girls, and how this Today, only some private schools and compounds offer could be linked to chances for marriage and the break- facilities for female recreation, but usually without letting the down of the family structure. He argued that this would word out. The government does not grant business permits undermine Islam and promote values of Western cultures. for sports clubs unless they are functioning as ‘health centers’ Also under the banner of the ‘westernization’ of Muslim and do not offer team sports; in 2009 it issued a ban on all women, Sheikh Abd Al Rahman Al Barak condemned gyms. This makes the opportunities for the development of / ` R team sports very scant. In the entire country, there is only arguments included the indecency of sports wear, the one women’s sports team and that is the Jeddah United basketball team. When sports associations are provided, other limitations such as the lack of freedom of mobility and Those who speak against the ban of female activities strict dress codes still hinder female access to facilities. clerics maintain that any exercise or sport should prohibit In 2004, the Minister of Education, Mohammad Al-Rashid indecent exposure. In line with this point of view, a study / O & ? P >]C of government opposed the suggestion. A few years later today there are indicators that the kingdom might be making ]]C ? ` amends. The Ministry of Education announced in August 824). With the implications of obesity on health being too 2011 that it would extend physical education for all schools, severe to ignore, the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle should but that participating women should always conform to the not only be allowed but also encouraged. The basic teachings of Islam. This recent change could bear noteworthy standards of health and nutrition need to be provided for implications despite the conservative forces in the country all humans alike, and it seems absurd that any religion because when some might be participating in Olympics, would challenge the welfare of any human being. This pursuit should not be a connotation for anything western, permission for activities such as driving, travel and work. or anything eastern. It is only human to seek what is of References: + / - Al-Nozha, Mansour M., et al. «Obesity in Saudi Arabia.» Saudi Medical Journal. 26.5 (2005): 824-829. Web. 27 Mar. 2012. http://repository.ksu. Islam, and these assumptions about the unruliness of female edu.sa/jspui/bitstream/123456789/2927/1/Obesity in SA.pdf activity stem from strict cultural norms. There are several - Sfeir, Leila. “The Status of Muslim Women is Sport: Conflict Between Cultural Tradition and Modernization.” International Review for the Sociology of Sport. examples of Hadith where exercise and female participation 20 (1985): 283-306. Web. 21 Mar. 2012. are clearly stated. The Prophet has been quoted as saying - “Steps of the Devil.” Human Rights Watch. Human Rights Watch, Feb that “anyone who has a healthy body is secure” (quoted 2012. Web. 22 Mar 2012.
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REAL ESTATE PRICES Towards AUGUST 2012
After months of passivity, the real estate market Prices of some estates sold in August 2012 Table 2 showed modest signs of recovery in August 2012. Region Area m2 Price (USD) USD/m2 Transactions grew slightly in Beirut, the suburbs Beirut and Mount Lebanon, but a lot still needs to be done Ashrafieh (Rizk) 150 345,000 2,300 to revive the market and restore the momentum it Ashrafieh (Chevrolet) 210 504,000 2,400 has lost over the past year and a half, especially that Mar elias 170 476,000 2,800 the coming months exhibit little optimism. Prices maintained stable levels with no major declines. Tariq Jadidah 100 160,000 1,600 However, small and medium apartments’ prices Raouche 150 600,000 4,000 increased by 2% to 3% after the banks resumed Ras Nabee 180 468,000 2,600 granting housing loans. (Mohammad Hout) Tables 1 and 2 show the prices of some apartments Hamra (Commodore) 190 703,000 3,700 and estates sold in August 2012. Spears 170 493,000 2,900 Baabda Prices of some estates sold in August 2012 Table 1 Hazmieh (Mar Taqla) 200 460,000 2,300 Region Area m2 Price (USD) USD/m2 Hazmieh (Mar Taqla) 290 710,500 2,450 Beirut Baabda 250 375,000 1,500 Ashrafieh 370 3,182,000 8,600 Baabda 165 363,000 2,200 (Rmeil) Hadath 150 202,500 1,350 Ras Beirut 980 11,760,000 12,000 Louaize 250 462,500 1,850 Hamra 420 4,410,000 10,500 Matn Baabda Beit Meri 280 644,000 2,300 Hadath 750 1,200,000 1,600 Awkar 240 348,000 1,450 Hazmieh 1,300 3,250,000 2,500 Awkar 200 300,000 1,500 Baabda 900 1,710,000 1,900 Sin el-Fil (Horsh Matn Tabet) 200 800,000 4,000 Zaarour 2,700 270,000 100 Mansourieh 160 240,000 1,500 Broummana 1,200 744,000 620 Antelias 180 288,000 1,600 Baabdat 1,000 500,000 500 Aley Bsalim 1,500 1,500,000 1,000 Doha Aramoun 160 160,000 1,000 Aley Doha Hoss 250 307,500 1,230 Aley 890 516,200 580 Bshamoun 260 286,000 1,100 Bhamdoun 850 382,500 450 Khaldeh 150 210,000 1,400 Bshamoun 1,100 385,000 350 Choueifat 170 204,000 1,200 Aramoun 1,400 308,000 220 Kessrouan Kessrouan Zouq Mosbeh 200 180,000 900 Kfardebian 1,000 170,000 170 Sahel Alma 210 315,000 1,500 Ajaltoun 1,400 700,000 500 Zouq Mikael 120 138,000 1,150 Harissa 1,450 870,000 600 Adma 350 507,500 1,450 Adma 900 1,035,000 1,150 Ajaltoun 170 238,000 1,400 Farayya 2,500 475,000 190 Ghazeer 180 198,000 1,100 Source: Information International- August 2012 Source: Information International- August 2012
issue 123 | October 2012 48| PRICES
PRICES OF 100 FOOD Towards PRODUCTS- AUGUST 2012
Of the 100 food products we track every month, Prices of 100 food products in August 2012 (in LBP) Table 1 60 items maintained stable prices. The prices of Prices Prices 21 items, including lemons, cereals, eggs, meat and beginning beginning of % of price coffee decreased slightly, while the prices of the Item and Brand of August September change remaining 19 (Hummus cans, beans, Mortadella, 2012 2012 Halvah and jam, etc) increased, but also in small Dairy Products percentages. Table 1 shows the prices of all 100 food Candia full cream milk 2,500 2,500 0 products in August 2012. (1 liter) Candia full cream yoghurt (1 kg) 3,250 3,250 0 Prices of 100 food products in August 2012 (in LBP) Table 1 Bonjus labneh (1 kg) 4,890 4,890 0 Prices Prices Taanayel labneh beginning beginning of % of price (500 g) 5,500 5,500 0 Item and Brand of August September change 2012 2012 Candia labneh (500 ) 5,250 5,400 + 2.8 Oil Taanayel yoghurt (1 kg) 4,250 4,250 0 Afia corn oil (3.5 liters) 16,250 16,000 - 1.5 Smeds cheese (400 g) 4,850 4,850 0 Mazola corn oil (3.5 liters) 17,400 17,400 0 Picon cheese (360 g) 3,900 3,900 0 Mazola corn oil Picon cheese (160 g) 1,975 1,975 0 (1.8 liters) 8,750 8,750 0 Double-crème cheese Slim corn oil (2 liters) 9,000 9,000 0 (1 kg) 11,000 11,00 0 Wesson corn oil Fresh country cheese (2 liters) 9,000 8,750 - 2.8 (1 kg) 10,000 11,500 + 5 Ghandour soya oil Kashkawan cheese (3.8 liters) 14,100 14,100 0 (1 kg) 12,000 12,000 0 Alfa corn oil (4 liters) 17,500 17,250 - 1.4 Lurpak butter (200 g) 2,750 2,650 - 3.6 Al-Wadi olive oil Tatra butter (200 g) 2,500 2,500 0 (1/2 liters) 6,750 6,400 - 5.2 Al-Malaaqtain Ketchup and Sauces margarine (2 kg) 7,850 7,850 0 Libby’s Ketchup Al-Baqara al-Haloub (567 g) 1,900 2,100 + 10.5 margarine (2 kg) 35,000 35,000 0 Extra Ketchup (340 g) 1,250 1,400 + 12 Vegetaline margarine (2 kg) 18,950 19,100 + 0.8 Extra Ketchup (2.2 kg) 5,500 5,750 + 4.5 Nido full cream milk (bag) (2,250 g) 21,850 21,850 0 Dolly’s Mayonnaise (500 ml) 4,250 4,100 -3.5 Nido full cream milk (bag) (2,500 g) 26,250 26,250 0 Al-Wadi Mayonnaise (500 ml) 3,950 4,000 - 1.2 Tatra full cream milk (1,800 g) 20,500 20,500 0 Al-Bsat Tahina (900 g) 6,950 6,950 0 Cereals Al-Bsat Tahina Khater white lentils (450 g) 3,850 3,850 0 (1 kg) 4,100 4,000 - 2.4 Taous tomato sauce Khater chick-peas (70 g) 750 750 0 (1 kg) 5,000 4,750 - 5 Taous tomato sauce Khater beans (1 kg) 1,950 1,950 0 (425 g) 3,200 3,200 0 Peeled wheat (1 kg) 2,500 2,500 0 Tala tomato sauce (675 g) 3,150 3,000 - 4.7 Pineal Lima Bean (1 kg) 3,850 4,100 + 6.5
issue 123 | The Monthly is published by Information International s.a.l. PRICES |49
Prices of 100 food products in August 2012 (in LBP) Table 1 Prices of 100 food products in August 2012 (in LBP) Table 1 Prices Prices Prices Prices beginning beginning of % of price beginning beginning of % of price Item and Brand of August September change Item and Brand of August September change 2012 2012 2012 2012 Brown Fine Burgul White Diamond tuna (1 kg) 2,100 2,000 - 4.7 (200 g) 2,750 2,750 0 Egyptian rice (1 kg) 1,750 1,750 0 Skipper tuna (185 g) 2,400 2,500 + 4.2 American rice (1 kg) 1,750 1,750 0 Eggs (30 eggs) 7,000 6,500 - 7.1 Italian rice (1 kg) 2,250 2,000 - 11.1 Beef (1 kg) 17,000 15,000 - 11.7 Al-wadi Hommos Sheep (1kg) 25,000 22,000 - 12 Tahina (380 g) 1,500 1,500 0 Coffee and Tea Chtoura Hommos Tahina (380 g) 1,450 1,450 0 Najjar coffee (1 kg) 17,000 17,000 0 Brazil coffee (1 kg) 15,500 13,000 - 16.1 California Gardens 1,400 1,400 0 beans (450 g) Al-Hisan tea (180 g) 2,750 2,750 0 Al-Wadi beans (450 g) 1,100 1,200 + 9 Nestle (250 g) 1,950 1,950 0 Chtoura beans Halvah and Jam (480 g) 1,100 1,200 + 9 Al-Wadi halvah 4,400 4,400 0 Libby’s corn (340 g) 1,750 1,750 0 (454 g) Al-Bsat halvah Pasta (450 g) 3,700 4,250 + 14.8 Barilla spaghetti 2,250 2,250 0 Chtoura apricot jam (500 g) (1 kg) 6,500 6,850 + 5.4 Antonio Amato 2,200 2,200 0 Al-Wadi apricot jam spaghetti (500 g) (1 kg) 6,000 6,250 + 4.2 Monte spaghetti (500 g) 2,300 2,300 0 Tissues and Detergents Mimosa tissues Sugar (500 g) 2,850 2,850 0 Sugar (2 kg) 3,500 3,500 0 Fine tissues 1,450 1,450 0 Al-Ousra sugar (5 kg) 8,500 8,250 - 2.9 (200 tissues) Salt (700 g) 300 325 + 8.3 Primo tissues (200 tissues) 1,400 1,400 0 Box of salt (738 g) 1,400 1,450 + 3.5 Gipsy tissues Meat, Fish and Eggs (300 tissues) 2,850 2,800 - 1.7 Zwan chicken (200 g) 2,550 2,550 0 Mimosa toilet papers (4 rolls) 5,750 6,100 + 6 Zwan beef (200 g) 2,500 2,500 0 Yes detergent (750 g) 2,600 2,600 0 Luncheon meat beef (198 g) 2,000 2,000 0 Clorox (1 liter) 1,500 1,500 0 Al-Mona chicken Persil (4 kg) 19,850 19,850 0 (200 g) 2,200 2,200 0 Ariel (4 kg) 20,250 20,000 - 1.2 Al-Taghzia beef (200 g) 1,800 1,800 0 Fruit and Vegetables Oranges (1 kg) 1,000 1,000 0 Al-Taghzia chicken 1,750 1,900 + 8.5 (200 g) Tomatoes (1 kg) 1,250 1,000 - 20 Geisha sardine (125 g) 1,500 1,500 0 Cucumbers (1 kg) 1,250 1,500 + 20 Deli sardine (125 g) 1,250 1,250 0 Bananas (1 kg) 1,250 1,250 0 Milo sardine (125 g) 1,200 1,150 - 4.2 Lemons (1 kg) 3,000 1,500 - 50 Geisha tuna (200 g) 4,000 4,000 0 Apples (1 kg) 2,000 2,000 0 Potatoes (1 kg) 600 600 0 White Bell tuna 2,750 2,750 0 (200 g) Source: Information International
issue 123 | October 2012 50| Did you know that?
Water
2.5 %, or 35 million km3 of the1.4 billion km3 total 87 % of global population uses improved drinking- volume is the fresh water resources (UNEP). water resources. 70 %, or 24 million km3 of the 35 million km3 64 billion cubic meters is the growing demand for fresh water resources is in the form of ice and water every year. permanent snow cover in mountainous regions, 2.5 billion people, including almost 1 billion the Antarctic and Arctic regions. children, live without even basic sanitation. (UN- 30 % of the world’s freshwater is stored water). underground in the form of groundwater. 2.2 million children under the age of 5 are estimated 0.3 % of the world’s freshwater is contained in to die because of unsafe water, inadequate freshwater lakes and rivers. sanitation, and the lack of hygiene every year. 1 % and less, or only 200 000 km3 of all freshwater 894 million -1 in 6 people worldwide- do not have resources is the total volume of usable freshwater access to 20 – 50 liters f safe freshwater which supply for ecosystems and humans. ensure the basic needs for drinking, cooking and cleaning (WHO & UNICEF). 70 % of world’s fresh water is used for irrigation. 22 % of world’s fresh water is used for industry. Source: 8 % www.unwater.org of world’s fresh water is for domestic use. www.worldwater.org
Beirut International Airport
Beirut International Airport Rafic Hariri International Airport Traffic- August 2012
The number of passengers who used Airport traffic in August 2012 compared to July 2012 and August 2011 Table 1 Rafic Hariri International Airport in August % of change % of change 2012 stood at 627 870 passengers, August August Traffic July 2012 July/August August 2011/ thus registering a decrease by 2.7% 2012 2011 (17 786 passengers) compared to the 2012 August 2012 passenger traffic last month and an Arriving airplanes 3,040 3,024 3,026 -0.5% -0.06% increase by 9.2% (52 946 passengers) compared to August 2011. Air traffic Departing airplanes 3,047 3,027 3,029 -0.6% -0.06% witnessed no major fluctuations Total No. of airplanes 6,087 6,056 6,055 -0.6% -0.06% between 2011 and 2012, while there was an increase in the imported and Arriving passengers 316,467 283,246 261,866 -10.5% +8.1% exported goods due to the instability in Departing passengers 324,148 341,279 308,752 +5.3% +10.5% the border regions between Lebanon Transit passengers 5,041 3,345 4,306 -33.6% -22.3% and Syria, which complicated the trade of goods by land. The total number Total No. of passengers 645,656 627,870 574,924 -2.7% +9.2% of passengers from the beginning of Imported good (per ton) 4,016 3,713 3,213 -7.5% +15.6% the year until August reached up to 4 032 229 passengers, i.e. up by 9% Exported goods (per ton) 3,553 3,631 3,100 +2.2% +17.1% compared to the same period last year. Total amount of goods 7,569 7,344 6,313 -2.9% +16.3% Table 1 illustrates the airport traffic in (per ton) August 2012 compared to July 2012 Source: Information International and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and August 2011. Stats & Numbers |51
StatsNumbers&
16 850 is the number of new cars sold in Lebanon in the first half of 2012 compared to 15 211 cars during the same period last year. Kia was the best selling car with 4810 sales followed by Nissan which registered 2972 sales.
Over 80% of the Lebanese Photo by Alaa Sakr families had mobile phones in 2011 compared to 50% in 2005. Publications
Publications by Publications by INMA (in Arabic): 1314.8 Information International (in Arabic): 1- “I am Responsible, All of Us are Responsible” LBP billion is the total 1- Salaries and Remunerations in the Public Sector 2- “Our Environment is Our Home” of the salaries and benefits 2- Public Seaside Properties 3- “My Society is My Responsibility” paid to the 21881 bank 3- Lebanon’s Parliamentary History 1920-2000 4- “My Society is My Responsibility” Workbook 4- Taxes and Fees 5- “I am a Student, I am a Citizen: Ways Towards employees in Lebanon in 5- Lebanon in Figures 1992-2002 State Building” 2011. 6- Lebanon in Figures 2003-2004 6- “I am a Student, I am a Citizen: Ways Towards 7- Lebanon in Figures 2005-2006 State Building” Workbook 8- Lebanon in Figures 2007-2008 7- “Lebanon Wars, why?” 9- Lebanon’s MPs and Lebanese Parliamentary 8- Discrimination in Lebanon Elections 1960 - 2009 948 is the number of branches 10- 2009 Parliamentary Elections by ballot box, for the 69 operating banks in candidate and confession-North District 11- 2009 Parliamentary Elections by ballot box, Lebanon. 507 or around 53% candidate and confession-Beirut District of these branches are located 12- 2009 Parliamentary Elections by ballot box, in Beirut and its suburbs. candidate and confession-Mount Lebanon District 13- 2009 Parliamentary Elections by ballot box, candidate and confession-Beqa’a District 14- 2009 Parliamentary Elections by ballot box, candidate and confession-South and Nabatiyeh 1100 District LBP billion is the 15- Municipal Elections 2010 estimated additional expense due to the pay hike approved Publications by Kutub (in Arabic): for public civilian and military 1- Trablous Al-Sham employees. 2- Jeniyat Al-Nabi 3- Mokhber Al-Konsoliya To Subscribe: 4- Antoun Saadah 1932-1949 5- Antoun Saadah, A Biography, Volume 1. The Youth Years Al-Borj Building, 4th Floor, Martyrs Square 6- The Face of the Prophet, Khalil Gibran and the Portraits Beirut Central District of the Temple of Arts Telephone: 961-1-983008/9 961-3-262376 7- May Ziadeh, Fax: 961-1-980630 8- USA in the Middle East [email protected] 9- Alone Together www.iimonthly.com www.information-international.com © Information International SAL All rights reserved License No. 180/2003 TRADITIONAL ALEPPO DISHES
In her cookbook “Traditional Aleppo Dishes”, published by Kutub, Hanaa Halouni + ` traditional Syrian cuisine, most of which are now at a risk of disappearing owing both to their lack of documentation in cookery books into our eastern societies. The author embarked on documenting the recipes of the Syrian national meals which are mainly prepared of natural un-synthetic ingredients. The dishes have mixed origins embracing diverse cultural \ & 5 elements necessary for good health. The author presents detailed recipes with a set of instructions and a list of ingredients for preparing around 400 traditional Syrian dishes inherited from parents and grandparents. Those home-made meals were the fruit of the Syrian natural and geographic environment and have enriched all Syrian feasts in the past forty years. “Traditional Aleppo Dishes” is a serious attempt to give the Allepian cuisine its dues SOON IN BOOKSTORES and preserve its traditional essence through the documentation of the ancient Allepian culinary heritage and the promotion of this heritage for all the qualities it brings to the physical and mental health of younger generations.
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