Lebanon’s vast diaspora has long been its economic lifeline, sustaining families, businesses, and the national economy through remittances, trade, and investment. Yet their political role remains contested and constrained. As Lebanon prepares for its 2026 parliamentary elections, this research explores the crucial role of non-resident Lebanese in shaping the country’s future. It examines their demands for genuine political representation, the obstacles posed by entrenched sectarian interests, and the urgent need for electoral reform. By analyzing media discourse, legal frameworks, and diaspora advocacy, this study highlights how empowering the Lebanese abroad is essential for rebuilding a sovereign, democratic, and prosperous Lebanon.
 

 

The research project titled "Homeland Political Parties (HPPs) and the Diaspora in the Case of Lebanon" is an extension of prior academic work by the author, Dr. Guita Hourani. This project aims to investigate the mobilization and communication methods employed by HPPs in their interactions with the Lebanese diaspora. It argues that, given the effects of globalization, significant emigration of HPPs' constituencies, and the evolving role of the diaspora as non-state actors in political transnationalism, HPPs must formulate new strategies for engaging with the diaspora in both homeland and hostland politics.