As the Lebanese Organization of Studies and Training (LOST) continues to run the Networks of Peace (NOP) project, in partnership with the Dutch Embassy, trainings are held in five targeted zones of Baalbeck-Hermel: Baalbeck, Hermel, Ein, Deir Ahmar, and Chmestar. The 3-year project aims to introduce a system of re-bridging society according to common needs, resources, and interests, to transform conflict into social stabilizing mechanisms.
During the first year, LOST recruited 20 participants in each area of the project, and several activities were carried out for participants to become familiar with one another. During the second year, the previously identified volunteer mobilizing committees (VMCs), in addition to members of sister organizations received a set of training that includes: active citizenship, civic participation, municipal law, the role of citizens, problem solving, conflict resolution and transformation, peace-building, needs assessment techniques, project design, human rights, and training of trainers.
Target groups consider themselves as community mobilizers and activists in public affairs, who seek to spread the theory of peace-building and reduce conflict in the area. The most important need for target groups is to provide the basic services for their communities. With the support of the Dutch Embassy, LOST aims to provide those basic services, reduce conflict, and promote a culture of peace in Baalbeck-Hermel.