Tuesday, May 28, 2016 the Lebanese Organization of Studies and Training (LOST) concluded its project “Promoting Women’s Role in the Political Participation” with an Iftar in the presence of representatives from Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS). The seminar, entitled “Promoting Women’s Role in the Political Participation- Achievements and Challenges,” was a chance for the city’s figures and activists to know more about what women are achieving with the support of LOST and KAS and offer their share of sustenance in the process.
After standing silently for a minute in reverence for Qaa’s tragedy, LOST’s founder, Dr. Ramy Lakkis, gave a speech in which he stressed the crucial role of women in the public life especially in the light of the challenges overwhelming the region. He underscored the “women individual motivation” that has “not only to be welcomed but also backed up by the society” to retrieve the second half of the society.
The Resident Representative of KAS in Lebanon, Peter Rimmele, valued the women’s participation in the project and their contribution to its success. He specifically addressed the women candidates in May 2016 Municipal Elections to appreciate their courage and sense of citizenship. According to him, running for office was a successful beginning, but it should not be the end.
The women participants shared their experience with the attendants who were divided into discussion groups to discuss the achievements and find ways to promote a culture of feminine activism in the political life in Baalbeck-Hermel.
The cooperation between LOST and its partners, including KAS, has resulted in ladies having the sense of active citizenship and running for office in May 2016 elections. So, definitely stronger partnerships will result in greater achievements.