Women’s role in politics examined
The UK has supported the launch of a landmark study on women’s participation in Lebanese political parties, unveiled at a high-level conference in Beirut.
Conducted by UN Women Lebanon with the Office of the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon (UNSCOL), the research offers the first in-depth assessment of women’s roles in eight political parties. It examines their positions as members, candidates and leaders, while highlighting the barriers and opportunities for advancing gender equality within party structures.
British Ambassador Hamish Cowell joined Lebanese officials, including Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s representative Minister Haneen El Sayed, UN Women’s Gielan El Messiri, and Canadian Ambassador Gregory Galligan at the launch.
Push for greater representation
Ambassador Cowell said the UK was “proud” to partner with UN Women to strengthen women’s political voice. He added that building on gains made by female candidates in recent municipal elections, Britain hoped to see greater female representation in Lebanon’s May 2026 parliamentary elections.
Inclusive politics
UN Women stressed that the study provides parties with a clear picture of where women stand in political life and how structures can be reformed to promote inclusivity.
The report is expected to inform new strategies aimed at increasing women’s participation and leadership across Lebanon’s political landscape, at a time when international partners are calling for broader reform and representation.
