With Lebanon witnessing a notable political shift following the election of a new president and the appointment of a prime minister tasked with forming a government, the need to enhance female representation in the upcoming cabinet has become more pressing. The inclusion of women in cabinet positions is not just a step towards gender equality but a fundamental pillar for sustainable development and the effective use of national human resources.

Importance of Female Representation in Government

Women’s participation in government is not merely symbolic—it is essential for enabling half of society to actively contribute to political and economic decision-making. Appointing women to ministerial positions ensures gender balance, strengthens social justice, enriches public policies through diverse perspectives, and projects a progressive image of Lebanon as a country committed to inclusivity.

Positive Steps from the Presidential Palace

Signs of change have already begun to emerge through key female appointments at the presidential level. Jana Mourad has been named Diplomatic Affairs Advisor, and journalist Najat Charafeddine as the official spokesperson for the presidency. Both appointments reflet the president's confidence in women’s ability to enhance international relations, and reinforcing transparency and strengthening public communication. These steps should serve as a foundation for broader female representation in the new government.

Qualified Female Candidates for Ministerial Positions

Recognizing the need for greater female representation, several women’s organizations, led by “Fifty-Fifty,” have put forward a list of more than 1,200 women as potential ministerial candidates. Among them, 15 prominent Lebanese women stand out as highly qualified candidates for key ministerial roles:

• Laurie Haytayan – Ministry of Energy and Water

An expert in oil and gas affairs, she is the Director of the Natural Resource Governance Institute in the Middle East and has extensive experience in energy strategies and natural resource management.

• Josephine Zgheib – Ministry of Tourism

Holding a PhD in governance and local development, she is an expert in tourism project management and has played a key role in classifying Kfardebian (a mountain town) as the Arab Winter Tourism Capital.

• Dalia Dagher – Ministry of Information

A well-known journalist and president of “Stouh Beirut” (Beirut Roofs) NGO, she is recognized for her initiatives promoting societal dialogue, women’s empowerment, and support for marginalized communities.

• Rana Dib – Ministry of Environment

An environmental expert and consultant on climate change and waste management, she has worked with international organizations on sustainable environmental policies.

• Mona Fawaz – Ministry of Public Works and Transport

A university professor and researcher in urban planning and sustainable development with extensive experience in infrastructure improvement and urban development.

• Randa Assaf – Ministry of Education and Higher Education

A specialist in curriculum development, she has worked on advancing digital education and teacher training programs.

• Nayla Geagea – Ministry of Health

A doctor and public health expert, she has contributed to developing comprehensive healthcare policies in Lebanon.

• Hala Bitar – Ministry of Economy and Trade

An economist and consultant in international trade, she has been involved in drafting economic policies to enhance investments in Lebanon.

• Rola Dashti – Ministry of Finance

An economic expert and member of international organizations working to alleviate national debt, she has previously held leadership positions in economic development.

• Zeina Oueidat – Ministry of Industry

A specialist in industrial development and small and medium-sized enterprises, she supports industrial innovation in Lebanon.

• Nadine Hallal – Ministry of Culture

A cultural activist and director of artistic projects dedicated to promoting Lebanese cultural identity locally and internationally.

• Rita Karam – Ministry of Labor

An expert in labor policies and workers’ rights, she is known for her initiatives to create job opportunities for youth.

• Ghada Chreim – Ministry of Social Development

An academic and writer with expertise in social policies and programs empowering marginalized communities.

• Basima Tlays – Ministry of Youth and Sports

A former athlete and activist promoting women’s and youth sports in Lebanon.

• Nisrine Machmouchi – Ministry of Justice

A judge and lawyer with extensive experience in anti-corruption cases and strengthening the rule of law.

A Crucial Step for Lebanon’s Future

Ultimately, appointing women to Lebanon’s new government is not merely a demand for equality but a necessary step toward better public policies and genuine progress across all sectors. With appointed Prime Minister Nawaf Salam at the helm, Lebanon has a golden opportunity to present a progressive government model that embodies positive change and grants Lebanese women the recognition and representation they rightfully deserve.