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.
This policy paper is developed in direct continuation of the MEIRSS opening remarks delivered at the seminar “Vote Beyond Borders.” The seminar took place at USJ-Campus des Sciences Humaines.
