The conference provided an invaluable platform for participants to network, exchange ideas, and cultivate new partnerships and collaborations. The program included a comprehensive presentation on the role of CIMIC in Lebanon, along with two pivotal panel discussions. These panels offered a space for participants to share their experiences, best practices, and lessons learned in the field of civil-military cooperation.

Opening Remarks

The conference commenced with opening remarks by Dr. Imad Salamey, NHSF Director and Human Security Expert, and Michael Bauer, Head of KAS Office Lebanon. Both emphasized the importance of collaboration between civilians and the military in rebuilding infrastructure, fostering social cohesion, and promoting development.

CIMIC’s Role in Lebanon:

General Iyad El-Alam, Director of CIMIC Lebanon, presented a comprehensive overview of CIMIC and its work in Lebanon, sparking an open discussion among attendees.

Panel Discussions:

The conference featured two informative panel discussions.

Panel I: The Role of Lebanese Public Mobilization

Moderated by Elie Mkhael, NHSF Co-Director and Public Health Security Expert, the panel explored various aspects of civil-military cooperation, including environmental protection, healthcare, media campaigns, and the challenges and opportunities faced in Lebanon. Prominent figures - Dr. Nasser Yassine, Dr. Maya Nehme, Journalist Nawal Berry, Dr. Nicolas El Hajjar, and Dina Arakji - shared their insights and experiences in these areas.

Panel II: The Role of International Organizations

Moderated by Dr. Imad Salamey, this panel delved into international perspectives on building effective partnerships with the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), UN-CIMIC’s role in promoting peace and development, NATO-CIMIC experiences, and comparative regional experiences of civil-military cooperation. Distinguished speakers like Hans Peter Van Der Woude, Albagir Adam, Colonel Ugo Proietto, and representatives from DCAF contributed to a rich discussion.

Key Takeaways and Recommendations:

Throughout the conference, experts, government officials, and international representatives highlighted the critical role of military-civilian cooperation in addressing Lebanon’s crises. The discussions underscored the need for continued collaboration between military and civilian sectors to strengthen the nation’s resilience in the face of ongoing challenges. The event concluded with recommendations focused on consolidating military-civilian relations, fostering shared responsibility, and enhancing Lebanon’s capacity to confront its complex and insecure environment. Participants expressed optimism about the potential for such cooperation to rebuild trust in government institutions and address pressing societal issues.