A Diagnostic Assessment of Lebanon's Aid Management System During Conflicts

Lebanon's aid management system is fundamentally characterized by profound institutional fragility, pervasive corruption driven by sectarian patronage networks, and a chronic lack of transparency and coordination. These systemic deficiencies severely undermine aid effectiveness, perpetuating a cycle of dependency rather than catalyzing structural change (The Century Foundation, n.d.). On-the-ground interviews with practitioners confirm this reality, highlighting a chronic lack of coordination described as a "missing bridge" between local and international efforts, a fragmented data landscape that hinders accountability, and a complete absence of dedicated national disaster budgets or strategic stockpiles.

This policy note is intended to inform Lebanese policymakers, CSOs, and the donor community on strategic options and deployable methods to break the cycle of dependency and ultimately transform international aid into a catalyst for sustainable recovery. It presents a summary of key challenges hindering the aid sector by examining historical patterns of aid governance, analyzing current institutional frameworks and transparency practices, and identifying systemic challenges of fragmentation, elite capture, and state bypassing. The note also explores country experiences and innovative initiatives in monitoring and reporting on development aid, and finally provides actionable recommendations aimed at improving coordination, enhancing transparency, and strengthening accountability.