President Joseph Aoun called on Friday for a more mature and self-aware political culture in Lebanon, urging leaders to embrace constructive criticism and prioritize the public good over personal ambition.
Speaking during a visit to the Economic and Social Council in Beirut, Aoun outlined what he sees as the three phases of political leadership: an initial period of openness and humility, followed by a phase in which experience breeds overconfidence and finally, the seldom-reached stage of true political maturity.
“I came here today to ask for your help, not just for me, but for all of Lebanon’s leaders, to move directly to the third stage,” Aoun said, calling for governance marked by reflection, humility and public accountability.
At the heart of that vision, the president emphasized, is the ability to engage in self-criticism and to accept dissent. “A leader must be able to hear ‘no,’ provided it is based on knowledge, integrity and the public interest, not driven by malice or revenge,” he said.
Aoun praised the role of the Economic and Social Council, describing it as central to a more inclusive and consultative approach to leadership. “You represent every hand that works tirelessly for this country,” he said. “Politics should remain a deeply human endeavor, a tool for serving citizens, not a means of consolidating power for partisan or personal gain.”
The president reiterated his reliance on the council's expertise, highlighting a recent legislative development that strengthens its role. Under a newly adopted law, the government is now required to consult the council on all major economic, social and environmental issues. Aoun encouraged the council to fully exercise this mandate “with seriousness and responsibility.”
Responding to the president’s remarks, Council Chairman Charles Arbid welcomed the new law, saying it marks a turning point for the institution. “With this legal framework and the changes underway, we believe the council is embarking on a new path, and that Lebanon is now ready to move forward,” he said.
Established in 1999, the Economic and Social Council was created to give Lebanon’s economic and social sectors a voice in shaping public policy. The body promotes dialogue among stakeholders and advises the government through studies and reports on key national issues.
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