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Social IssuesJul 29, 2026
Public Perceptions and Lived Experiences in Lebanon Prior to the 2026 Military Escalation
- Dima Smaira, Peter Chouayfati
Photo by IBRAHIM AMRO / AFPIn this report, Dima Smaira and Peter Chouayfati provide a comprehensive analysis of public perceptions and lived experiences in Lebanon before the March 2026 military escalation, drawing on a nationwide survey of 2,400 respondents and 21 focus group discussions. The findings highlight economic hardship, insecurity, displacement, psychological distress, and declining trust in public institutions, while identifying key priorities for recovery, including stronger social protection, basic services, institutional trust, psychosocial support, social cohesion, and opportunities for youth and vulnerable groups.
Dima Smaira is a Lecturer in Political Studies at the American University of Beirut and a Visiting Senior Research Fellow at King’s College London. She holds a PhD in International Relations from Durham University and specialises in Peace and Conflict Studies. She previously served as Executive Director and Board Member of Act for the Disappeared (ACT).Peter Chouayfati holds a BA in Political Science and International Affairs with distinction from the Lebanese American University and an MLitt in Middle East, Caucasus, and Central Asian Security Studies from the University of St. Andrews. His research focuses on Lebanese politics, democracy, governance, and migration.