Living as a Marginalized Individual in Lebanon: The Struggles of Religion, Society, and Law 

In recent years, the need for open dialogue surrounding the issues faced by marginalized individuals, particularly the LGBTQI+ community, has become more urgent, especially in societies where cultural and religious beliefs often shape public perceptions and government policies. To address this, Legal Action Worldwide (LAW) took the initiative to organize a roundtable discussion that brought together eight NGOs, and other key stakeholders to explore the challenges faced by marginalized persons, with a focus on the LGBTQI+ community, in the context of religion, society, and law. 

The goal of this roundtable was not only to discuss the stigma, legal barriers, and societal challenges that marginalized individuals face but also to identify actionable solutions and create a path toward a more inclusive and supportive environment. Through candid conversations and sharing of experiences, this roundtable aimed to bridge the gaps in understanding and bring forth a collective vision for a society where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other marginalized status, can live with dignity, equality, and the full enjoyment of their human rights. 

Inside the Roundtable: Experts and NGOs Discuss Key Challenges and Solutions for Marginalized Individuals’ Rights in Lebanon 

The Legal Landscape: Challenges and the Road to Justice 

The legal framework within many countries, including Lebanon, has long been a significant barrier for marginalized individuals. Article 534 of the Lebanese Penal Code, for instance, criminalizes “sexual acts against nature,” a law that has been used to target and harass marginalized individuals despite some court rulings that have dismissed its application. While there have been attempts to challenge such legal structures, the lack of comprehensive legal protection and anti-discrimination laws leaves marginalized individuals vulnerable to arbitrary arrests, discrimination in employment, and exclusion from healthcare services. 

Moreover, in 2022, the political climate in Lebanon shifted dramatically, with an increase in repression and societal backlash against marginalized individuals’ rights. Advocates and activists who were once able to mobilize openly and push for change were forced to retreat into more covert actions. This rollback of rights highlights the fragile progress made and the constant battle for legal recognition and social acceptance. Until inclusive policies are enacted and protected by law, marginalized individuals will continue to face insecurity, marginalization, and fear. 

Social Stigma and Family Dynamics 

The social stigma that marginalized individuals face is deeply intertwined with cultural, religious, and family expectations. In many communities, particularly those influenced by conservative religious views, being a marginalized individual is still viewed as taboo or even as a moral failure. Families, many of whom may still operate under strict cultural norms, may react with rejection, harm, or shame when they learn of a relative’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or other marginalized status. 

However, there is a growing movement within families toward understanding and acceptance. Education programs designed to inform family members about the challenges faced by marginalized individuals and to provide them with the tools to support their loved ones have begun to show promise. The increasing awareness and knowledge in these circles offer a hopeful future, but significant barriers remain. Misunderstanding, fear, and deeply ingrained cultural and religious beliefs continue to create hostility and division. 

For marginalized individuals, the lack of family support is often compounded by isolation from the broader community. Media often portrays these individuals in sensationalized and harmful ways, reinforcing negative stereotypes and exacerbating the societal divide. The lack of honest, responsible representation in mainstream media only perpetuates the cycle of stigmatization and makes it even more difficult for families to see their loved ones as whole people deserving of love and respect. 

Access to Services: Barriers in Healthcare, Employment, and Housing 

Marginalized individuals face substantial barriers when it comes to accessing basic services such as healthcare, housing, and employment. Discrimination in employment practices is widespread, with many individuals being excluded from entire sectors despite having essential skills and qualifications. Job opportunities are often inaccessible due to an individual’s external identity; whether it’s their sexual orientation, gender expression, or perceived differences. The systemic barriers to employment not only limit economic independence but also perpetuate cycles of poverty and inequality. 

The healthcare system presents another critical challenge. Despite some strides in access to health services, marginalized individuals frequently face discriminatory practices in medical care. Healthcare providers may lack the necessary training to interact with these individuals with respect or even refuse treatment outright due to personal biases. The need for inclusive, non-discriminatory healthcare cannot be overstated, as it is fundamental to ensuring that all individuals receive the medical care they deserve without fear of being judged or mistreated. 

Additionally, the crisis in Lebanon’s housing market, compounded by political and economic instability, forces many marginalized individuals into unsafe or unstable living situations. Without access to affordable housing or legal protections, many are left to navigate the streets or live in fear of eviction. 

Religious Institutions and Their Role in Marginalized Issues 

One of the most profound barriers faced by marginalized individuals in Lebanon is the influence of religious institutions. Both Christian and Muslim religious leaders have been vocal in their opposition to marginalized rights, using their platforms to propagate harmful rhetoric. This creates a toxic environment in which these individuals are not only criminalized by the state but also ostracized by their communities and families. 

However, there is a growing recognition within certain religious circles of the need to reassess traditional interpretations and create space for dialogue. Some religious leaders have begun to engage with marginalized issues from a more empathetic and understanding perspective, acknowledging the importance of human dignity, compassion, and the unconditional love that should be central to all faiths. While this shift is not yet widespread, it represents a critical step toward reducing the power of religious dogma to control individuals’ lives and identities. 

Looking Ahead: A Path Forward for Marginalized Individuals 

While the challenges faced by marginalized individuals in Lebanon and other parts of the world are daunting, there is hope for the future. The work of NGOs, religious leaders, and civil society organizations remains crucial in shifting public opinion and advocating for legal reforms. Efforts to challenge discriminatory laws, provide support services, and promote awareness must continue to grow if marginalized individuals are to enjoy the same rights and protections as any other group. 

At the heart of these efforts lies the recognition that the issue is not just about legal frameworks but about changing societal attitudes. It is only by fostering acceptance, understanding, and respect that we can hope to achieve a society where marginalized individuals are not only tolerated but fully integrated into the fabric of society. 

As LAW and its partners continue to advocate for change, the conversation must be expanded beyond just legal rights and societal acceptance to include the need for political representation and the empowerment of marginalized individuals. It is crucial that these voices are heard and represented at all levels of decision-making processes to ensure that their rights are respected and upheld. The roundtable discussions were just beginning. The journey ahead requires sustained effort, collaboration, and the unwavering belief that every individual deserves to live free from fear, discrimination, and violence regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or other marginalized status.  

Recommendations from the Roundtable: A Roadmap for Change 

Based on the insights shared during the roundtable discussion, participants representing eight leading NGOs have outlined a series of key recommendations to address the significant challenges facing Lebanon’s marginalized community. These recommendations focus on immediate actions needed to shift legal, societal, and religious norms toward inclusivity and protection for marginalized individuals. 

1. Legal Reform and Protection Participants emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive legal reforms. The repeal of Article 534 of the Lebanese Penal Code, which criminalizes same-sex relations, is a critical first step. Advocacy for anti-discrimination laws must be prioritized to protect marginalized individuals from arbitrary arrests, harassment, and exclusion from critical services such as employment and healthcare. Establishing a legal framework that ensures equal rights and protection for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or other marginalized status, is fundamental to combating systemic discrimination. 
2. Family Education and Support Programs One of the most promising strategies identified by NGOs is the implementation of education programs aimed at family members of marginalized individuals. These programs aim to provide families with the tools and knowledge to understand the issues faced by their loved ones and offer support. Educating families about the emotional, mental, and social challenges faced by marginalized individuals can help build acceptance, reduce stigma, and foster stronger familial bonds. Scaling these programs and encouraging local NGOs to partner with communities will be essential for long-term impact. 
3. Comprehensive Healthcare Access The roundtable underscored the importance of inclusive healthcare for marginalized individuals. Participants advocated for training healthcare professionals on these issues, including providing gender-affirming care and understanding the specific health needs of the community. Additionally, creating inclusive medical environments that ensure individuals are treated with dignity and respect is a critical recommendation for ensuring healthcare accessibility without discrimination or fear. 
4. Public Awareness Campaigns and Media Representation Addressing the negative stereotypes perpetuated by the media was a key recommendation. Participants called for the creation of public awareness campaigns that challenge harmful stereotypes and promote positive, accurate representations of marginalized individuals in the media. By showcasing real stories and experiences, these campaigns can help change public perception and reduce societal stigma. Furthermore, media outlets must be encouraged to adopt responsible reporting practices that emphasize inclusion, diversity, and respect. 
5. Religious Dialogue and Reinterpretation Given the powerful influence of religious institutions in shaping public attitudes, several roundtable participants highlighted the importance of opening dialogue within religious communities. They recommended that religious leaders, particularly those in Lebanon, engage in discussions that reassess traditional interpretations of religious texts in ways that embrace compassion and human dignity. Creating spaces for dialogue between religious figures and advocates for marginalized individuals could help reduce religious-based discrimination and build bridges of understanding. 
6. Political Representation and Empowerment Another key recommendation was the importance of increasing the political representation of marginalized individuals in Lebanon. These voices must be included in decision-making processes, ensuring that their needs and rights are represented at every level of government. Empowering marginalized individuals to take leadership roles in advocacy, politics, and civil society organizations will create stronger, more effective movements for social change.