MENU
back
en
The workshop was a platform for informed discussions and the exchange of ideas, strategically addressing the most pressing issues facing the region and forging pathways towards collaborative solutions.
Key Areas of Focus:
1. Assessing the Regional Landscape: The retreat commenced with insightful deliberations on the current state of Lebanon, Syria, and the broader Middle East. Attendees examined the multifaceted challenges affecting the region, aiming to understand their ramifications for sustainable development.
2. Uncovering Opportunities: Participants engaged in stimulating conversations centered on identifying latent opportunities for transformative change. This involved the exploration of untapped economic potential, innovative solutions to address social challenges, and mechanisms to enhance regional stability.
3. Prioritizing Key Sectors: The retreat drilled down into specific sectors that are ripe for concentrated efforts and investment. Stakeholders collaboratively identified strategic industries with growth potential and discussed comprehensive approaches to drive sustainable development.
4. Nurturing Partnerships: Collaboration emerged as a recurring theme throughout the retreat. Distinguished attendees explored the potential for synergistic partnerships between public partners, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector. Such alliances are envisaged to be instrumental in driving positive change in the Middle East.
5. Pioneering Sustainable Projects: Delegates passionately brainstormed and conceptualized sustainable development projects designed to yield long-term benefits for communities across the Middle East. The emphasis was on projects that could make a lasting impact.
6. Navigating the Syrian Situation: A significant part of the retreat was dedicated to addressing the complex situation in Syria. Participants engaged in nuanced discussions on post-conflict reconstruction and development.
7. Innovative Fundraising Strategies: Recognizing the importance of resources for effecting change, attendees explored innovative fundraising methods to secure the necessary financial support for the proposed projects and initiatives.
Field Trips to Taanayel and Hemlaya:
In addition to the insightful discussions, the workshop also included enriching field trips to Taanayel and Hemlaya, where Swisscontact is actively engaged in sustainable agriculture initiatives. Participants had the opportunity to witness the Azolla Impact Project site in action and explore the pilot project of the bio-digester. These field visits showcased real-world examples of sustainable agriculture and underscored the practical impact of Swisscontact's work.
Both of the interventions are part of the TAFAWOQ project in Lebanon. This project is financed by the Leopold Bachmann Foundation, among other donors. This project is part of the Swisscontact Development Programme, which is co-financed by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), Federal Department of Foreign Affairs FDFA.
The "Middle East Strategy Retreat" by Swisscontact in Beirut marked a momentous occasion, fostering collaboration and generating innovative ideas that have the potential to catalyze meaningful change in Lebanon and the broader Middle East. The event concluded with a collective commitment to sustained dialogue and collaboration, ensuring that the insightful ideas generated during the retreat materialize into actionable plans that will drive the development and stability of the region.
Swisscontact remains steadfast in its dedication to fostering sustainable development and is proud to have facilitated this pivotal gathering, which exemplifies our commitment to bringing positive change to the Middle East.