"Akhbar al-Yawm" agency

Decline of Christian Presence in the State...What Are the Solutions?

Father Khadra to "Akhbar al-Yawm": We must shift from "power creates rights" to "rights empower power"

It is widely recognized that there has been a noticeable decline in Christian representation within the Lebanese state, particularly in positions below the "first category". Consequently, there is a pressing need to encourage Christians to engage with the state's institutions to preserve the sectarian balance that has long been established.

As the government commences its work and vacancies are filled, Father Tony Khadra, the head of the "Labora" Foundation, has brought this issue back into the spotlight, actively engaging with relevant concerned, including President Joseph Aoun. During a recent visit by the "Ora Union" delegation to the Baabda Palace, Father Khadra emphasized to President Aoun the importance of giving special attention to the issue of sectarian balance in the state, as it serves as a cornerstone for true security and stability. He warned of dangerous attempts to undermine this balance, particularly within the customs and internal security forces.

In an interview with the "Akhbar al-Yawm" agency, Father Khadra acknowledged the existence of a problem, noting that the root cause lies in the reluctance of Christians themselves to apply for public sector positions. He clarified that the issue is not demographic in nature, but rather one that stems from a mindset and a long-standing situation over the past 40 years, during which Christians have grown disillusioned with the state, feeling that it is not a space for them.

Father Khadra underscored the need for serious efforts to address this issue at the political level, ensuring that every Lebanese citizen feels equal and that there is genuine participation across all sects. He called for a shift from the mentality of "power creates rights" to one where "rights generate power".

To illustrate the scope of the problem, Father Khadra provided specific statistics: "For example, in a recent police recruitment cycle for 1,000 positions, only 550 Christian applicants were received compared to 11,700 Muslim applicants. Despite the overwhelming number of Muslim applicants, the selection process respected the sectarian balance, resulting in 500 Christians and 500 Muslims being successfully chosen. This contrasted with a previous recruitment cycle, where 800 positions were available, and ideally, half should have been filled by Christians. However, only 400 Christian candidates applied, with only 250 being successful. The remaining vacancies were filled by successful Muslim applicants, but this solution was rejected, as it violates the sectarian balance. Similarly, in the current recruitment cycle for 30 head of department positions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 150 Christian university graduates applied, suggesting that 15 Christians could be selected. This counters any argument regarding demographic limitations".

Father Khadra also expressed support for the recent election of a president and the formation of a government, but cautioned that without decisive action to address the underlying factors preventing Christians from pursuing these positions, real progress would remain elusive. He further highlighted the role of both the Church and Christian political parties in motivating young people to pursue careers within state institutions, particularly within the military and security sectors.

In response to questions, Father Khadra disclosed that a proposal will be presented to political parties, the Church, and bishops to provide greater support for Christian employees in state institutions, especially given the current challenges Lebanon is facing. This proposal will also be extended to military and state officials with the aim of securing salary increases for those working in these sectors.

Father Khadra commended President Aoun for his dedication to the role of Christians in Lebanon, noting his extensive experience in this area.

In conclusion, Father Khadra emphasized that Lebanon's future hinges on maintaining diversity and balance within its institutions. He stressed the importance of persevering in the effort to ensure Christian participation in the state to prevent the country from heading towards a dangerous and irreversible decline.