Lebanon

Minutes of Meeting

ISG Working Group for Socio-Economic Rehabilitation and Development

March 13, 2002

Ambassador Khalil Makkawi welcomed General Georges Massaad, the newly appointed Head of the National Demining Office (NDO). Amb. Mekkawi observed that General Massaad believes in transparency and cooperation, and is willing to cooperate with all parties working on Mine Action in Lebanon.

Mr. Mohamad Mukalled (UNDP) presented the matrix on socio-economic activities in the South. Mr. Mukalled explained that the matrix was prepared at the UNDP/CDR Office in Tyr through contributions from NGOs operational in South Lebanon, based on a recommendation from the EU. Donors and NGOs were asked to review the matrix, distributed in the meeting, and send their changes/comments to UNDP for incorporation. Once finalized, the matrix will be presented at the next ISG meeting. Mr. Mukalled also introduced the ongoing NGO coordination mechanism in the South, which is held on a monthly basis for coordination and joint programming. This mechanism has been significant for exchanging information, reducing overlapping, and standardization of approaches. There is still room for improvement in terms of filling gaps and planning of joint activities. Mr. Mukalled reiterated the important impact/links between the socio-economic impact of mines, demining, and the integrated approach to the socio-economic rehabilitation in general.

Mr. Ghassan Jamous (USAID) indicated that USAID, in coordination with the State University of New York in Albany, has a large programme for strengthening municipalities, where 710 municipalities, including those in South Lebanon, will be trained on administration and financial procedures to up-grade their financial and administrative capabilities. Responding to an inquiry relating to the problems faced in implementing socio-economic activities as a result of landmine contamination, Mr. Jamous indicated that most NGOs are aware of such problems and continue to coordinate with the NDO to solve such obstacles.

Mr. Hegazi Idris (UNESCO) mentioned that UNESCO has computer training centers, established in 2001, in Bint-Jbeil, Khiam, and Marjeyoun. UNESCO also has interventions targeting the former Khiam detainees.

Mr. Pascal Dufour (EU) emphasized the importance of identifying venues for joint collaboration. The EU is currently in the phase of identifying projects for its new cooperation programme (2002-2004). Information on ongoing initiatives will help define the gaps that have still to be filled. Mr. Dufour reiterated the importance of the matrix, which can be complemented by indicative future interventions planned by donors.

Mr. Greg Lindstrom (MACC) introduced the mine action portfolio which was published released in Geneva, and which is available on the web. Mr. Lindstrom indicated that MACC would be interested in participating in the monthly NGO coordination meetings in the South. He also introduced the Mine Action Coordination Center, which was established in Tyr in January 2002, with the aim of supporting the Operation Emirates Solidarity. The Center, that is equipped to respond to requests, is currently staffed by personnel from UAE, UN and NDO.

Amb. Makkawi agreed that the center in the south is very important for coordination and called on all participants, donors and NGOs, to take advantage of this center for ongoing and future activities.

It has been agreed that each of the ISG WG on Socio-economic Rehabilitation meetings will focus on one thematic issue. As such, it was also agreed that the next meeting will focus on assistance to municipalities.