HRW Urges New Lebanese Government to Prioritize Human Rights and Rule of Law

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called on Lebanon’s newly appointed government, led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, to adopt a human rights-centered agenda that emphasizes the rule of law, transparency, and accountability, Jurist News reported. In a letter to Salam, HRW outlined ten recommendations aimed at addressing the country’s pressing challenges.

The organization stressed the need for legal reforms to enhance judicial independence and eliminate political interference in judicial matters, which have fostered a culture of impunity. HRW specifically urged the reform of Articles 751 and 52 of the Code of Civil Procedures and the Code of Criminal Procedure to align them with international standards.

HRW also highlighted the political obstacles that have hindered the investigation into the 2020 Beirut blast, urging the government to allow the inquiry to proceed by removing immunity from public officials. Additionally, the organization called for Lebanon to ratify the Rome Statute, enabling the International Criminal Court to investigate war crimes committed since October 2023.

Furthermore, HRW emphasized the urgency of addressing the ongoing economic crisis, which has exacerbated poverty and hindered public administration. The organization urged the government to improve governance, protect refugee rights, and reform discriminatory laws affecting women.

As Lebanon grapples with numerous issues, including a refugee crisis and economic instability, the new government faces significant challenges in restoring public trust and ensuring basic rights for its citizens.