Safeguarding the Rights of Lebanon Expatriates-Policy Brief

Expatriate voting in Lebanon is not a procedural matter but a fundamental democratic issue connected to constitutional equality, sovereignty, national identity, and the credibility of state institutions. Lebanese abroad form a vital political and economic extension of the nation, and their participation is essential for restoring democratic balance and rebuilding trust between citizens and the state.

Although expatriates have demonstrated strong engagement and a clear desire to participate in shaping Lebanon’s political future, they continue to face efforts to restrict their role—most notably through the proposal to confine them to six dedicated parliamentary seats. Such an approach is discriminatory, unconstitutional, and disconnected from the realities of Lebanon’s political and economic needs.

This policy brief argues that full expatriate voting rights are integral to Lebanon’s democratic renewal. Drawing on expert analysis and historical understanding, it presents a comprehensive roadmap to secure the right of all expatriates to vote for the entire body of 128 Members of Parliament, ensuring that they remain equal and indispensable partners in Lebanon’s political life.

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