As a highlight of the Good Governance Forum’s academic program, the Observatory on Public Service and Good Governance (OFP) at Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ), in collaboration with the Rule of Law Programme Middle East and North Africa of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, recently orchestrated a seminar on “Good Governance in Political Parties: Current and Necessary Legislation.” Esteemed attendees included Prof. Salim Daccache SJ, Rector of USJ; MP George Okais; former Minister Ziad Baroud; Prof. Pascal Monin, Director of OFP; Philippe Bremer, Director of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (represented by Paul Saadeh, Lawyer); Shawkat Echtay, University Professor; Yara Nassar, Director of UN Women’s Political Participation Programme; and Associate Professor Rizk Zgheib from USJ Faculty of Law and Political Science.

Urgent Call for Legislative Reform

The seminar commenced with an opening address by Prof. Pascal Monin, expressing gratitude to the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung for its support. In addressing the challenging times faced by Lebanon, Monin conveyed hope for the nation’s recovery from its crisis, emphasizing the necessity for normalizing political life. Monin highlighted the critical issue that Lebanese parties currently operate without a contemporary legal framework, relying on the outdated Ottoman law on associations from 1909. This, he asserted, underscores the depth of the problem and underscores the urgency to enact essential legislation.

The OFP director emphasized the public’s right to understand why political parties are falling short of their promises outlined in election manifestos. He raised pertinent questions about the sources of party funding, the impact of foreign interventions, and the parties’ stance on religious and gender diversity. Monin stressed the need for legislation while balancing it with ensuring party freedom in Lebanon.

Representing Philippe Bremer, Paul Saadeh underscored the pivotal role of political parties in democratic systems. He lamented the lack of clear legislation governing political parties and the absence of a monitoring body for their activities. Saadeh questioned the continued application of the 1909 Ottoman Associations Law, a mere 19-article framework, to contemporary political parties.

Professor Salim Daccache highlighted the global challenge faced by political parties in adapting to rapid changes. He emphasized Lebanon’s current need for collaborative encounters based on shared destiny and interests, critiquing the manipulation and communal domination perpetuated by parties rooted in religious identity.

Former Minister Ziad Baroud acknowledged the merits of the 1909 law but called for its development, particularly regarding financial obligations and transparency. He insisted on parties complying with existing laws before seeking amendments, asserting that parties, if aligned with the 1909 law, are a fundamental necessity for society.

The seminar, moderated by Prof. Rizk Zgheib, delved into Lebanon’s transformation since 1990, evolving from a state of parties to one controlled by parties. The discussions underscored the imperative need for legislative reform to address the challenges facing political parties in Lebanon and ensure their alignment with contemporary societal needs.

Overcoming Sectarianism: Leaders Advocate for Legislative Reform to Boost Political Life

During a recent seminar, MP George Okais underscored sectarianism as a formidable barrier hampering the progress of political life. Okais called for the adoption of a new law that respects Lebanon’s cherished freedom. He emphasized that a genuine political party must adhere to the rule of law and the constitution; otherwise, it should not be recognized as such.

Prof. Shawkat Echtay delved into the core issue of political parties in Lebanon, emphasizing their capacity to achieve good governance and the essential steps to implement it. Echtay held political parties directly responsible for the nation’s crises, urging them to reassess their approaches and party identity to rectify their mistakes.

Yara Nassar highlighted the insufficient role of women within political parties, pointing out that only 12 women contested the 2022 elections. Nassar stressed that the lack of female representation indicates a need for structural changes within parties to ensure democratic practices and good governance.

Dr. Heike Martin, Administrative Director of the Institute for German and International Party Law and Party Research at Heinrich-Heine University of Düsseldorf, shared insights into Germany’s party experience and their commitment to good governance during her virtual address via the “Zoom” application.

The seminar concluded with a consensus among speakers on the imperative need to revise the outdated 1909 Ottoman Associations Law. A forthcoming working document will outline the necessary steps to achieve good governance within political parties. The Observatory plans to host additional seminars on the subject in 2024, furthering the discussion on vital reforms for Lebanon’s political landscape.

Read also: La bonne gouvernance dans les partis politiques ; législations actuelles et requises

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