Antoun el-Fata, “Akhbar al-Yawm” agency

Lebanon’s First-Ever IT and AI Ministry: A Strategic Necessity Amid Major Challenges

Abi Najem: Unauthorized internet and unregulated communication networks must not be permitted

Lebanon now has a Ministry for Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence in Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s government—an addition that should have been made to the traditional ministerial portfolios regardless of the prime minister’s identity.

However, this represents a significant shift, yet the challenges associated with this ministry are considerable, just as the efforts required of it are substantial. The question remains: What are the chances of success in a country like Lebanon? Furthermore, how will Lebanon navigate the risk of technological stagnation amid the global competition between the United States and China? Domestically, some factions may push for greater engagement with Chinese technology firms, while others may advocate for stronger ties with American companies and the benefits they offer in this field. 

It is important to recognize that Lebanon will not be able to access any form of advanced or cutting-edge technology without achieving political, security, military, and economic reform. 

In an interview with "Akhbar Al Yawm", cybersecurity and digital transformation expert Roland Abi Najem emphasized said that without the necessary political and security changes, Lebanon will not be able to achieve a significant technological leap. He noted that the Ministry for Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence is one of the most important ministerial portfolios and represents the first time Lebanon has had such a ministry. However, governance remains the cornerstone of any digital transformation, cybersecurity framework, or artificial intelligence strategy, as it is responsible for setting the standards and overseeing their implementation. 

Given the country’s current resources, several key steps must be taken. First, just as the state should have a monopoly on armed forces, it must also have full control over technology and telecommunications. This means outlawing unauthorized internet connections and unregulated communication networks, a move that requires the necessary political will. 

He added: “Additionally, Lebanon must invest in upgrading its infrastructure, including electricity, internet, and telecommunications, as these are the foundation for any digital transformation. Without proper infrastructure, no progress can be made. At the same time, developing human capital is essential. It is widely acknowledged that many public sector employees lack the necessary technological and artificial intelligence expertise, with most having secured their positions through political connections rather than merit. Many do not even show up to work. Therefore, requalifying the workforce, dismissing unqualified employees, and recruiting skilled professionals must be the first steps toward digital transformation”. 

He continued: “Another critical factor is legislation. No digital transformation or artificial intelligence advancement can take place without the appropriate legal framework, making regulatory reform an essential prerequisite”. 

When asked about the potential for internal political disputes over whether Lebanon should align itself with Chinese or American technology firms, Abi Najem dismissed the likelihood of such conflicts. He pointed out that “Lebanon’s strategic trajectory is already clear - whether by choice or necessity, the country operates under a form of American patronage. Given that most of the world’s advanced technologies are American - made and that Lebanon is not a technology producer itself, it inevitably relies on foreign providers for digital services. Between the United States and China, the balance leans in favor of the former, given Lebanon’s close ties to American support”. 

Abi Najem concluded that “Lebanon cannot disengage from American assistance in technology and the infrastructure required for its advancement. This is particularly evident in the energy sector, where securing stable electricity supplies depends on American support, making complete technological independence an unrealistic prospect”.