Politics Of Globalization In Lebanon

As Lebanon is increasingly faced with the challenges of globalization, the country's human development presents various positive elements, albeit in a mixed overall context. In the face of daunting internal and external challenges, Lebanon has done rather well with respect to human development in the past decade, thanks partly to some unique advantages it enjoys over many neighbors. However, with the challenges of globalization becoming increasingly urgent, much more needs to be done. This will be to both shield Lebanon from globalizations more disruptive effects and as well to allow the country to make the best of integration into the global order.

The Human Development Index (HDI) is the core indicator of human development; it expresses achievements in three basic dimensions (to have a long and healthy life, to be knowledgeable, to enjoy a decent standard of living). In 1999, the latest year for which data is available, the HDI for Lebanon was in the upper middle of the medium human development group (0.758) - a fair achievement compared to other Arab countries and to the average for the developing world. However, Lebanon must do better to cope with globalization. (Firzli 15-20)

To avoid stagnation and reach higher development levels, the government must strive to enhance human development, that is to enlarge the choices people have to lead lives that they value. This implies priority for developing human capabilities, in particular through education, for governance in the public and private sectors and for technologybased investment. It also implies a more inclusive environment and more participatory approaches to development, so that peoples concerns may be heeded and that they will be effectively involved in decisions that affect them.

A notable feature is that the country's human development performance remains superior to its economic performance (HDI rank 65, compared to GDP rank 78 in 1999); hence, the crucial importance of achieving and sustaining high rates of growth. However, rapid economic growth must be pursued simultaneously with accelerating advances in human development to achieve a virtuous cycle whereby economic growth and development and human development become mutually reinforcing. (Holst 12-23)

The Gender-related Development Index (GDI) reflects inequalities between men and women in the same categories as the HDI. The GDI for Lebanon roughly follows the pattern of the HDI, but at a lower level, indicating significant opportunities for improving gender equality. The Gender Empowerment Measure (GEM) focuses on women's opportunities as opposed to capabilities. For Lebanon it indicates a very low level of achievement, as female participation in politics and power over economic resources are very limited. To redress this gender deficit needs to be made a priority national objective.

The Technology Achievement Index (TAI) measures achievements in technology and support services. Notwithstanding a TAI of 0.332 (Dynamic Adopter, rank 41 out of 72 countries considered), Lebanon has the characteristics of a Potential Leader (0.35-0.49), a country that has invested in high levels of human skills and diffused old technologies widely, but innovates little. GDP per capita (US$ PPP) stood at 4,705 in ...