Lebanon, officially known as the Republic of Lebanon, is a Middle Eastern country situated in West Asia. Strategically located at the intersection of the Mediterranean Basin and the Arabian hinterlands, Lebanon boasts a rich historical background and a diverse cultural identity influenced by various religious beliefs. The country shares its borders with Syria to the north and east, Israel to the south, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west, with Cyprus located a short distance from its coastline. Lebanon spans an area of 10,452 square kilometers and has a population exceeding five million. Beirut serves as the capital and largest city, followed by Tripoli and Jounieh. While Arabic holds the status of the official language, French is also formally recognized. Lebanese Arabic is widely spoken, while French and English are prevalent in daily life. Modern Standard Arabic is primarily used in official contexts such as news and government affairs.
1916: Sykes–Picot Agreement
The Sykes–Picot Agreement, a secret pact between Britain and France, was reached in 1916, during World War I. This agreement significantly influenced the post-war partition of the Ottoman Empire, including the designation of Lebanon as a potential area of French influence.
1918: Dissolution of the Emirate of Mount Lebanon
The Emirate of Mount Lebanon, which had existed for approximately four centuries, was dissolved in 1918 following World War I and the collapse of the Ottoman Empire. It was replaced by the Mount Lebanon Mutasarrifate under the French Mandate for Syria and the Lebanon.
1919: Paris Peace Conference
The Paris Peace Conference, held in 1919 following World War I, was a pivotal event in shaping the post-war world order. It was during this conference that Patriarch Elias Peter Hoayek advocated for an expanded territory for Lebanon, incorporating areas with substantial Muslim and Druze populations in addition to the Christian-dominated Mount Lebanon.
September 1, 1920: Establishment of Greater Lebanon under French Mandate
On September 1, 1920, Greater Lebanon, or Grand Liban, was officially established under French control as a League of Nations Mandate, uniting Mount Lebanon, North Lebanon, South Lebanon, and the Bekaa, with Beirut as its capital.
1920: Lebanon Falls under French Mandate
Following the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire, Greater Lebanon became a French mandate in 1920, marking the beginning of a period of significant French influence on the country's political and social development.
1920: Proclamation of the Arab Kingdom of Syria and the San Remo Conference
In 1920, King Faisal I proclaimed the Arab Kingdom of Syria's independence, which included Lebanon. However, this kingdom was short-lived, defeated by French forces. Meanwhile, at the San Remo Conference, it was decided that Syria and Lebanon would become French mandates.
1920: Establishment of Greater Lebanon
In 1920, under the French Mandate, Greater Lebanon was established, incorporating Mount Lebanon, North Lebanon, South Lebanon, and the Bekaa, laying the groundwork for the future independent Republic of Lebanon.
1920: Treaty of Sèvres
The Treaty of Sèvres, signed in 1920, formally defined the borders of modern-day Lebanon. This treaty, while significant in shaping the Middle East, was never fully ratified and was superseded by the Treaty of Lausanne in 1923.
July 1922: Ratification of the French Mandate
The French Mandate for Syria and the Lebanon, which included the establishment of Greater Lebanon, was officially ratified in July 1922 by the League of Nations.
1923: Publication of "The Prophet"
Kahlil Gibran, a Lebanese writer, published his renowned book "The Prophet" in 1923. This book achieved global recognition and has been translated into over twenty languages since its publication.
September 1, 1926: Proclamation of the Lebanese Republic
On September 1, 1926, the Lebanese Republic was officially proclaimed, adopting a constitution influenced by the French model. Despite the establishment of a Lebanese government, the country remained under French control.
1932: Last Official Census
The last official census in Lebanon was conducted in 1932 due to the sensitive confessional political balance between the country's various religious groups.
1932: Last Official Census
The last national census in Lebanon was conducted in 1932 due to the sensitive nature of religious demographics.
1932: Religious Makeup of Lebanon
The last census in 1932 indicated that Christians made up 53% of Lebanon's population.
1932: Code des Obligations et des Contrats implemented
The Code des Obligations et des Contrats, equivalent to the French Civil Code, was implemented in Lebanon in 1932, codifying a significant portion of civil law.
November 1941: General de Gaulle Recognizes Lebanon's Independence
In November 1941, amidst political pressures, General Charles de Gaulle recognized Lebanon's independence. General Georges Catroux subsequently declared that Lebanon would become independent under the Free French government.
November 1943: Lebanon Declares Independence, Faces French Backlash
Following elections in 1943, the newly formed Lebanese government unilaterally abolished the French mandate in November 1943. France responded by imprisoning the government officials but released them later that month under international pressure.
1943: Independence of the Republic of Lebanon
Building upon the foundations laid with the establishment of Greater Lebanon, the sovereign Republic of Lebanon achieved its full independence in 1943, marking a significant milestone in its history.
1943: Lebanon's National Pact Shapes Political Landscape
In 1943, Lebanon adopted an unwritten National Pact, which outlined the sectarian distribution of key political positions. This pact designated the president as a Maronite Christian, the speaker of parliament as a Shia Muslim, the prime minister as a Sunni Muslim, and the Deputy Speaker of Parliament and the Deputy Prime Minister as Greek Orthodox.
1943: Independence under Bechara El Khoury
Lebanon gained independence in 1943 under President Bechara El Khoury, ushering in a new era for the country after decades of Ottoman rule followed by the French Mandate.
1943: Lebanese Diaspora Religious Makeup
Over 50% of the Lebanese diaspora is Christian, partly due to significant Christian emigration before 1943.
1943: National Pact establishes confessionalist system
The National Pact, established in 1943, outlined a power-sharing arrangement based on religious affiliation in Lebanon. It designated specific roles for different religious groups, aiming to maintain balance and prevent sectarian conflict.
October 1945: Lebanon Achieves Full Independence with UN Recognition
With the official establishment of the United Nations in October 1945, both Syria and Lebanon, as founding members, were granted full independence, effectively ending the French mandate.
December 1946: French Troops Withdraw from Lebanon
Marking the end of the French mandate era, the last French troops withdrew from Lebanon in December 1946.
May 1948: Lebanon Enters War Against Israel
In May 1948, Lebanon joined its Arab neighbors in a war against Israel. While providing logistical support and artillery fire, the Lebanese army's involvement was limited.
June 1948: Lebanon Secures Al-Malkiyya in War Against Israel
In June 1948, the Lebanese army, under the command of Defense Minister Emir Majid Arslan, successfully captured Al-Malkiyya, marking Lebanon's sole victory in the war against Israel.
1948: 1948 Arab–Israeli War
Lebanon, along with other Arab states, was involved in the 1948 Arab–Israeli War, a pivotal event in the Arab-Israeli conflict that shaped the region's political landscape for decades to come.
1956: Religious Makeup of Lebanon
In 1956, it was estimated that Lebanon's population was 54% Christian and 44% Muslim.
1958: Lebanon Faces Insurrection, US Intervenes
During the final months of President Camille Chamoun's term in 1958, Lebanon experienced an insurrection led by Muslims advocating for the country's inclusion in the United Arab Republic. In response to Chamoun's plea for assistance, the US deployed 5,000 Marines to Beirut, leading to the formation of a new government headed by General Fouad Chehab.
1960: Lebanese Rocket Society Founded
In 1960, a science club initiated Lebanon's foray into space exploration with the establishment of the "Lebanese Rocket Society." This program achieved notable successes before its halt in 1966.
1966: Lebanese Rocket Society Program Halted
The Lebanese Rocket Society's space program, launched in 1960, was brought to a standstill in 1966 due to a confluence of factors, including the outbreak of war and mounting external pressure.
1970: Palestinian Militant Influx Heightens Sectarian Tensions in Lebanon
Following the defeat of the PLO in Jordan in 1970, a wave of Palestinian militants sought refuge in Lebanon, intensifying the armed campaign against Israel. This influx contributed to escalating sectarian tensions, particularly between Palestinians and Maronite Christians.
1971: Fertility Rate
The fertility rate in Lebanon was 5.00 in 1971.
1975: Lebanese Civil War Begins
The Lebanese Civil War, a brutal and complex conflict, erupted in 1975, marking the beginning of a tumultuous period in Lebanon's history.
1975: Lebanese Civil War Begins
The Lebanese Civil War, lasting from 1975 to 1990, caused severe damage to the country's economic infrastructure, resulting in a 50% reduction in national output.
1975: Lebanese Civil War Begins
The Lebanese Civil War, a multifaceted conflict involving various political and sectarian factions, erupted in 1975, marking the beginning of a prolonged period of instability and violence in Lebanon.
1975: Lebanon loses "Politically Free" status
Following the outbreak of the Civil War in 1975, Lebanon lost its status as a "Politically Free" country according to Freedom House.
1975: Civil War begins in Lebanon
The Lebanese Civil War began in 1975, lasting for 15 years and significantly impacting the country's political landscape.
1975: Lebanese Civil War Erupts
Fueled by rising sectarian tensions, a full-blown civil war erupted in Lebanon in 1975, pitting Christian groups against a coalition of Palestinian, leftist, and Muslim militias.
1975: Lebanese Emigration Wave
A series of migration waves from Lebanon began in 1975.
June 1976: Syrian Intervention in Lebanese Civil War
In June 1976, Lebanese President Élias Sarkis appealed for Syrian military intervention to quell the escalating civil war and restore stability.
October 1976: Arab League Establishes Deterrent Force in Lebanon
Following an agreement in October 1976, the Arab League formed a predominantly Syrian Arab Deterrent Force to help restore peace in war-torn Lebanon.
1977: PLO Attacks from Lebanon Escalate Tensions with Israel
During 1977, PLO attacks launched from Lebanese territory into Israel significantly heightened tensions between the two nations.
March 1978: Coastal Road Massacre Triggers Israeli Invasion
On March 11, 1978, a group of Fatah militants infiltrated Israel from Lebanon, carrying out the Coastal Road massacre. The attack claimed the lives of 37 Israelis and injured 76 others, prompting an Israeli invasion of Lebanon four days later.
1978: Israel Withdraws from Lebanon, Maintains Security Zone
Following its invasion in 1978, Israel withdrew its forces from most of Lebanon but retained control of a southern security zone. This zone was placed under the control of the South Lebanon Army (SLA), a Christian militia supported by Israel, with the aim of protecting the Christian minority in the region.
April 1980: At Tiri Incident Involving UNIFIL Forces
In April 1980, the presence of UNIFIL peacekeepers in the buffer zone between Lebanon and Israel led to the At Tiri incident, highlighting the volatile situation in the region.
July 1981: Israeli Bombing of Beirut Sparks International Condemnation
Israeli airstrikes targeted buildings in Beirut housing PLO offices in July 1981, resulting in significant civilian casualties and drawing widespread condemnation, including a temporary arms embargo from the US.
August 1981: Israel Plans Attack on PLO Infrastructure in Beirut
In August 1981, Israeli Defense Minister Ariel Sharon initiated plans for an offensive against PLO military infrastructure in West Beirut, where the organization's headquarters and command centers were situated.
September 1982: Assassination of Bachir Gemayel Reignites Civil War
The assassination of Lebanese President Bachir Gemayel, an ally of Israel, in September 1982, reignited the Lebanese civil war, leading to a resurgence of violence and sectarian clashes.
1982: Formation of Hezbollah
In 1982, Hezbollah, a Shiite Islamist militant group and political party, emerged in Lebanon with support and training from Iran. The group's formation was influenced by the 1982 war and the Islamic Revolution in Iran. Hezbollah aimed to fight against Israel, advance the Shia cause in the Lebanese civil war, expel Western influence, and establish an Islamic state.
1982: Israeli Invasion and Multinational Force Deployment in Lebanon
In 1982, Israel launched a large-scale invasion of Lebanon in response to PLO attacks. Following an Israeli siege on Beirut, a multinational force comprising US, French, Italian, and later British troops was deployed to oversee the PLO's evacuation.
1983: British Contingent Joins Multinational Force in Lebanon
In 1983, a British contingent joined the multinational force deployed in Beirut, expanding the peacekeeping mission's presence in war-torn Lebanon.
1984: Multinational Force Withdraws from Lebanon
Following a devastating bombing attack the previous year, the multinational force withdrew from Lebanon in the spring of 1984, marking an end to their peacekeeping mission in the country.
1985: Beginning of Israeli Occupation of Southern Lebanon
In 1985, seeking to create a security buffer zone against attacks from Lebanon, Israel expanded its military presence in Southern Lebanon, beginning an occupation that would last for 15 years.
1987: Lebanese Pound Collapse
In 1987, the Lebanese pound experienced a severe collapse, with the exchange rate plummeting to £L500 per US dollar. This economic crisis resulted in a significant decline in living standards, with the minimum wage equivalent to a mere $17 per month.
September 1988: Parliamentary Deadlock
In September 1988, the Lebanese Parliament failed to elect a successor to President Amine Gemayel due to disagreements among Christian, Muslim, and Syrian factions, further deepening the political crisis in Lebanon.
1988: Hazem El Masri's Arrival in Australia
Hazem El Masri, a prominent figure in rugby league and considered one of the greatest Lebanese players, immigrated to Sydney, Australia, from Tripoli, Lebanon in 1988.
May 1989: Arab League Peace Initiative
In May 1989, the Arab League Summit led to the establishment of a committee comprising Saudi Arabia, Morocco, and Algeria to address the ongoing crisis in Lebanon. This initiative aimed to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict and restore stability.
September 1989: Implementation of Peace Plan
On September 16, 1989, a peace plan proposed by the Saudi-Moroccan-Algerian committee was accepted by all parties involved in the Lebanese conflict. This acceptance led to a ceasefire, the reopening of ports and airports, and the return of refugees.
1990: End of the Lebanese Civil War
After 15 years of conflict, the Lebanese Civil War officially ended in 1990, leaving behind a legacy of destruction and division.
1990: End of Lebanese Civil War and Economic Recovery
Following the end of the Lebanese Civil War in 1990, a period of relative peace allowed the central government to reestablish control in Beirut, resume tax collection, and regain access to vital infrastructure, paving the way for economic recovery.
1990: Constitutional amendment aims to abolish religious-based political structure
In 1990, Lebanon's constitution was amended to include Article 95, which called for the eventual abolition of the country's political structure based on religious affiliation.
1990: End of the Lebanese Civil War
The Lebanese Civil War, which had ravaged the country for 15 years, came to an end in 1990, leaving behind a devastated nation in need of extensive reconstruction and reconciliation.
1990: End of the Lebanese Civil War
The Lebanese Civil War, which had ravaged the country for 16 years, came to an end in 1990. The conflict resulted in widespread destruction, displacement, and a devastating loss of life, with an estimated 150,000 people killed and 200,000 wounded.
1990: Taif Agreement establishes equal representation for Christians and Muslims
The Taif Agreement, which ended the 1975-1990 civil war, amended the constitution to ensure equal parliamentary representation for Christians and Muslims in Lebanon.
1997: Closure of Bourj Hammoud Dump
The Bourj Hammoud dumpsite was closed in 1997.
1998: al-Naameh Dumpsite Opened
The al-Naameh dumpsite began operations in 1998 as a temporary measure following the closure of the Bourj Hammoud dump. It was initially designed to handle 2 million tons of waste for a maximum of six years.
1999: Lebanese Diaspora in Australia
In 1999, Australia was estimated to be home to over 270,000 Lebanese people.
May 2000: Israeli Withdrawal from Lebanon
On May 25, 2000, Israeli forces completed their withdrawal from southern Lebanon, marking a significant turning point in Lebanon's history. This date is now celebrated as Liberation Day in Lebanon.
2000: End of Israeli Occupation
In 2000, Israel withdrew its forces from Southern Lebanon, ending its 15-year occupation of the region.
2000: Lebanon's Rugby League World Cup Debut
The Lebanon national rugby league team made their first appearance at the Rugby League World Cup in 2000.
2001: Investment Law No.360 Enacted
In 2001, Investment Law No.360 was implemented to further empower the Investment Development Authority of Lebanon's mission to encourage investment in the country.
2001: Lebanon concludes association agreement negotiations with the EU
Lebanon concluded negotiations for an association agreement with the European Union in late 2001, marking a step toward closer relations between the two entities.
January 2002: Lebanon and EU initial association agreement
In January 2002, Lebanon and the European Union initialed an association agreement, strengthening their ties and outlining future cooperation.
March 2002: Lebanon hosts Arab League Summit
Lebanon hosted an Arab League Summit in March 2002, demonstrating its improving relations within the Arab world.
October 2002: Francophonie Summit held in Lebanon
As a member of the Francophonie, Lebanon hosted the Francophonie Summit in October 2002, highlighting its ties to the French-speaking world.
2004: Industrial Sector in Lebanon
In 2004, Lebanon's industrial sector primarily consisted of small businesses focused on reassembling and packaging imported parts. This sector employed 26% of the Lebanese workforce and contributed 21% to the country's GDP.
2004: Fertility Rate
The fertility rate in Lebanon fell to 1.75 in 2004, with variations among religious groups: 2.10 for Shiites, 1.76 for Sunnis, and 1.61 for Maronites.
February 2005: Assassination of Rafik Hariri
On February 14, 2005, former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri was assassinated in a car bomb attack in Beirut. The incident sparked widespread protests and led to the withdrawal of Syrian troops from Lebanon.
April 2005: Syrian Withdrawal from Lebanon
Facing international pressure and domestic unrest following the assassination of Rafik Hariri, Syria began withdrawing its troops from Lebanon. By April 26, 2005, all Syrian soldiers had left Lebanese territory.
October 2005: Mehlis Report on Hariri Assassination
On October 20, 2005, the United Nations International Independent Investigation Commission (UNIIIC) released the Mehlis report, which presented preliminary findings on the assassination of Rafik Hariri. The report suggested the involvement of Syrian and Lebanese intelligence services in the attack.
2005: Palestinians face work restrictions
Until 2005, Palestinians in Lebanon were prohibited from holding over 70 jobs due to their lack of Lebanese citizenship.
2005: Lebanon receives significant US military aid
Since 2005, Lebanon has been a major recipient of foreign military aid, notably from the United States, making it the second-largest per capita recipient after Israel.
2005: Cedar Revolution
The Cedar Revolution, a series of protests and political activism in Lebanon, began in 2005, sparked by the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. This movement led to the withdrawal of Syrian troops from Lebanon and significant political change.
2005: High Proportion of Skilled Labor
In 2005, Lebanon stood out among Arab states for having the highest proportion of skilled labor within its workforce.
2005: End of Syrian Occupation
Following the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri and the subsequent Cedar Revolution, Syria withdrew its troops from Lebanon in 2005, ending its nearly 30-year occupation.
2005: French Language Use in Lebanon
As of 2005, around 20% of the Lebanese population used French daily, a legacy of France's historical ties to the region.
July 2006: Outbreak of the 2006 Lebanon War
On July 12, 2006, Hezbollah launched a series of attacks on Israeli territory, killing three soldiers and capturing two others. This incident triggered the 2006 Lebanon War, marked by intense fighting between Hezbollah and Israeli forces.
July 2006: Period of Stability and Economic Growth
Until July 2006, Lebanon experienced a period of significant stability and economic growth. Beirut's reconstruction was nearly complete, and the country witnessed a surge in tourism.
August 2006: Economic Impact of 2006 War
In August 2006, the Lebanese Ministry of Finance issued a preliminary report predicting a significant economic downturn due to the month-long 2006 war, which had severely impacted the country's fragile economy, particularly the tourism sector.
August 2006: End of the 2006 Lebanon War
The 2006 Lebanon War officially ended on August 14, 2006, with the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. The resolution called for a ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanon, and the disarmament of Hezbollah.
2006: Start of Anti-Government Protests
Beginning in 2006, a wave of protests erupted in Lebanon, led by groups opposed to the pro-Western government of Prime Minister Fouad Siniora. The protesters demanded the formation of a national unity government with greater representation for Shia opposition groups.
October 2007: Presidential Vacuum
In October 2007, Lebanon faced a presidential vacuum as the opposition, led by Hezbollah and Amal, refused to participate in the presidential election. They demanded a power-sharing agreement that would grant them veto power in the new government.
2007: Liberalization laws ease work restrictions
Liberalization laws passed in 2007 reduced the number of jobs Palestinians were banned from to around 20.
2007: 2007 Lebanon conflict
The 2007 Lebanon conflict, a brief but intense armed confrontation between the Lebanese Army and Fatah al-Islam, an Islamist militant group, occurred in the Nahr al-Bared Palestinian refugee camp.
May 2008: Hezbollah Takes Control of Beirut
On May 9, 2008, Hezbollah and Amal forces seized control of western Beirut, the predominantly Sunni area of the city. This action was prompted by a government decision to declare Hezbollah's communications network illegal. The clashes between pro-government and opposition militias resulted in numerous casualties.
2008: 2008 conflict in Lebanon
The 2008 conflict in Lebanon was a brief but significant internal conflict that arose from a political crisis between the government and Hezbollah.
2008: Post-War Reconstruction and Economic Growth
Throughout 2008, Lebanon focused on rebuilding its infrastructure, primarily in the real estate and tourism sectors, with substantial financial support from countries like Saudi Arabia and the European Union. This reconstruction effort contributed to a relatively robust post-war economy.
2008: Lebanon Narrowly Misses Rugby League World Cup Qualification
The Lebanon national rugby league team came close to qualifying for the 2008 Rugby League World Cup but was ultimately unsuccessful.
2008: Tourism in Lebanon
In 2008, Lebanon attracted 1,333,000 tourists, ranking 79th globally in terms of tourist arrivals.
2008: Previous Deadly Sectarian Clashes
Lebanon experienced significant sectarian violence in 2008, resulting in a number of fatalities.
2008: Remittances from Lebanese Diaspora
In 2008, remittances sent by Lebanese individuals residing abroad reached a total of $8.2 billion, representing a significant portion (one-fifth) of the country's economy.
2008: End of Anti-Government Protests
In 2008, after 18 months of political deadlock and protests, a power-sharing agreement was reached, leading to the election of a new president and the formation of a national unity government.
2008: Lebanon's Education Index
In 2008, the United Nations assigned Lebanon an education index of 0.871, ranking it 88th out of 177 countries.
2009: Armenian Population in Lebanon
In 2009, there were approximately 150,000 Armenians in Lebanon, representing around 5% of the population.
2009: Lebanon hosts Jeux de la Francophonie
Lebanon hosted the Jeux de la Francophonie in 2009, further strengthening its engagement with the international French-speaking community.
2009: Lebanon Secures Third Place in the European Cup
The Lebanon national rugby league team competed in the 2009 European Cup. Despite narrowly missing the final, they secured a respectable third-place finish by defeating Ireland.
2009: Beirut Ranked Top Travel Destination
In 2009, The New York Times recognized Beirut as the world's No. 1 travel destination, praising its vibrant nightlife and renowned hospitality.
2009: Lebanon Hosts the Jeux de la Francophonie
In 2009, Lebanon hosted the Jeux de la Francophonie, a multi-sport event for French-speaking countries.
2009: Healthcare Professionals
In 2009, there were 31.29 physicians and 19.71 nurses per 10,000 inhabitants in Lebanon.
January 2010: Tourism Boom
In January 2010, Lebanon's Ministry of Tourism announced a record-breaking 1,851,081 tourist arrivals in 2009, a 39% increase from the previous year. This marked the highest number of tourists visiting Lebanon since before the Lebanese Civil War.
November 2010: Leaked Report on Hezbollah's Plans
In November 2010, the Al-Akhbar newspaper published a leaked report suggesting that Hezbollah had formulated plans to seize control of Lebanon if the Special Tribunal for Lebanon issued indictments against its members for the assassination of Rafik Hariri.
2010: Healthcare Spending
In 2010, Lebanon's healthcare spending accounted for 7.03% of its GDP.
2010: Palestinians gain equal work rights to foreigners
In 2010, Palestinians in Lebanon were granted the same work rights as other foreigners in the country.
2010: 10-Year Forest Coverage Plan Launched
In 2010, the Lebanese Environment Ministry introduced a 10-year plan with the goal of increasing the nation's forest coverage by 20%. This initiative involved planting two million new trees annually.
January 2011: Collapse of the National Unity Government
The national unity government in Lebanon collapsed in early January 2011 due to escalating tensions related to the Special Tribunal for Lebanon. The tribunal was expected to implicate members of Hezbollah in the assassination of Rafik Hariri.
2011: Syrian Civil War Spillover
The Syrian Civil War, which began in 2011, had significant spillover effects in Lebanon, including an influx of refugees, increased sectarian tensions, and security challenges.
2011: Life Expectancy
The life expectancy at birth in Lebanon in 2011 was 72.59 years (70.48 years for males and 74.80 years for females).
2011: Top Tourist Origin Countries
In 2011, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Japan emerged as the top three source countries for foreign tourists visiting Lebanon.
2011: Lebanon Reforestation Initiative Commences
The Lebanon Reforestation Initiative (LRI), funded by USAID and implemented by the USFS, was launched in 2011. The project focused on planting cedar, pine, and other native tree species in ten regions across Lebanon.
2011: Religious Makeup Based on Voter Registration
By 2011, voter registration numbers suggested a stable Christian population at 34.35%, while Muslims (including Druze) made up 65.47% of the population.
2011: Lebanese Emigration Wave
By 2011, over 1,800,000 people had emigrated from Lebanon between 1975 and 2011.
2011: Subsidized Hospital Admissions
In 2011, there were 236,643 subsidized admissions to hospitals in Lebanon, with more patients opting for private institutions (164,244) over public ones (72,399) due to the larger number of private beds available.
2012: Rise of Japanese Cuisine
An influx of Japanese tourists in 2012 contributed to a surge in the popularity of Japanese cuisine in Lebanon.
2012: Forest Cover Assessment
As of 2012, forests covered 13.4% of Lebanon's land area. This represents a significant decline from ancient times when cedar forests were abundant.
2012: Syrian Civil War Spillover
The Syrian Civil War, which erupted in 2011, began to spill over into Lebanon in 2012, leading to an increase in sectarian violence and armed clashes, particularly between Sunnis and Alawites in Tripoli.
2012: Rise of Water Sports in Lebanon
The year 2012 marked a turning point for water sports in Lebanon. The emergence of the Lebanon Water Festival NGO brought increased attention and participation in these activities, solidifying the nation's reputation as an international water sports destination.
2012: Decline in Tourism Due to Syrian War
Tourist arrivals in Lebanon, which had reached two million in 2010, experienced a significant decline of 37% in the first ten months of 2012 due to the escalating conflict in neighboring Syria.
May 2013: Offshore Oil and Gas Discoveries
In May 2013, Lebanon's energy minister announced that preliminary analysis of seismic data from the seabed between Lebanon and Cyprus indicated a high probability of significant oil and natural gas reserves. The initial assessment suggested the presence of up to 660 million barrels of oil and 300 trillion cubic feet of gas within Lebanon's exclusive economic zone.
2013: Another Near Miss for Lebanon in Rugby League World Cup Qualification
Lebanon's national rugby league team narrowly missed out on qualifying for the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.
2013: Lebanon's Education Ranking
The World Economic Forum's 2013 Global Information Technology Report ranked Lebanon fourth globally for math and science education and tenth for overall education quality. It also ranked Lebanon 13th worldwide for the quality of its management schools.
2013: Freedom House rates Lebanon "Partly Free"
In 2013, Freedom House classified Lebanon as "Partly Free", while still considering it among the most democratic Arab nations.
2013: Syrian Refugee Estimate
In 2013, the United Nations estimated the number of Syrian refugees in Lebanon to be over 1,250,000.
2013: Concerns over Syrian Refugee Influx
In 2013, Lebanese political parties, including the Lebanese Forces Party, the Kataeb Party, and the Free Patriotic Movement, expressed apprehensions that the influx of Syrian refugees into Lebanon was straining the country's resources and potentially impacting its delicate sectarian balance.
2013: Annual Gender and Sexuality Conference
An annual gender and sexuality conference began in Lebanon in 2013.
May 2014: Lebanon's presidency becomes vacant
Lebanon's presidency became vacant in May 2014, marking the beginning of a period without a president.
November 2014: Lebanese parliament extends its term despite protests
On November 5, 2014, the Lebanese parliament extended its own term, drawing criticism for contradicting democratic principles and Article 42 of the Lebanese constitution.
2014: Atheism in Lebanon
The World Values Survey of 2014 indicated that 3.3% of Lebanon's population identified as atheist.
2014: Significant Increase in Syrian Refugees
The number of Syrian refugees seeking refuge in Lebanon surged significantly between 2013 and 2014, with the UNHCR reporting an increase from around 250,000 to 1,000,000 refugees within that period.
May 2015: Suspension of Syrian Refugee Registration
On May 6, 2015, the UNHCR, at the request of the Lebanese government, temporarily halted the registration of new Syrian refugees in Lebanon due to the increasing strain on the country's resources and infrastructure.
July 2015: Closure of al-Naameh Dumpsite
In July 2015, residents living near the al-Naameh dumpsite in Lebanon protested and forced its closure. The dumpsite, intended as a temporary solution, had far exceeded its capacity and operated for 16 years beyond its planned lifespan.
December 2015: Lebanon signs waste export agreement
In December 2015, the Lebanese government signed a contract with Chinook Industrial Mining and Howa International to export over 100,000 tons of untreated waste from Beirut and its surrounding areas.
February 2016: Lebanon Compact for Refugee Support
In February 2016, the Lebanese government signed the Lebanon Compact, an international agreement aimed at providing financial assistance to support Syrian refugees and vulnerable Lebanese citizens. The agreement secured a minimum of €400 million in aid.
February 2016: Lebanon ends waste export negotiations
The Lebanese government withdrew from negotiations regarding the export of trash to Russia in February 2016 after discovering forged documents.
March 2016: Naameh landfill reopens amid trash crisis
On March 19, 2016, Lebanon's Cabinet reopened the Naameh landfill for 60 days as part of a plan to address the ongoing trash crisis. The plan also included establishing new landfills in Bourj Hammoud and Costa Brava.
October 2016: Estimated Number of Syrian Refugees
By October 2016, the Lebanese government estimated that the country was hosting approximately 1.5 million Syrian refugees, highlighting the significant burden placed on Lebanon's resources and social fabric.
October 2016: Lebanon elects a new president
A new president was elected in Lebanon in October 2016, ending the presidential vacancy.
2016: Forest Coverage Update
By 2016, forests constituted 13.6% of Lebanon's land area, with additional wooded areas accounting for another 11%.
2017: Palestinian Refugees in Lebanon Face Ongoing Challenges
As of 2017, Lebanon hosts a significant population of Palestinian refugees, estimated between 174,000 and 450,000, with a significant portion residing in long-established refugee camps. These refugees continue to face challenges in accessing Lebanese citizenship, property ownership, and certain professions.
2017: Human Rights Watch report highlights health risks of garbage crisis
In 2017, Human Rights Watch released a report stating that the open burning of waste in Lebanon was posing a health risk to residents and violating the state's obligations under international law.
2017: Leading Causes of Hospital Deaths
The Ministry of Public Health in Lebanon reported the top ten leading causes of hospital deaths in 2017. These included lung cancer, heart attacks, pneumonia, acute kidney injury, and various other types of cancer.
May 2018: Nationwide elections take place
Nationwide elections were held in Lebanon in May 2018.
July 2018: Lebanese Population Estimate
In July 2018, the number of Lebanese nationals was estimated to be 4,680,212.
September 2018: Lebanon bans open dumping and burning of waste
In September 2018, the Lebanese parliament passed a law prohibiting the open dumping and burning of waste, setting penalties for violations.
October 2018: Open burning of waste continues despite ban
Despite the ban, Human Rights Watch researchers observed open burning at dumps in al-Qantara and Qabrikha in October 2018.
2018: Start of Economic Downturn
Lebanon's GDP has shrunk by 40% since 2018, marking the beginning of a severe economic downturn.
2018: Gender and Sexuality Conference Shut Down
The 2018 gender and sexuality conference was shut down by General Security Forces. Non-Lebanese LGBT activists who participated in the conference were subsequently barred from re-entering the country indefinitely.
August 2019: Hezbollah-affiliated ministers join the Lebanese cabinet
By August 2019, the Lebanese cabinet included two ministers directly affiliated with Hezbollah, alongside another close but officially non-member minister.
October 2019: Lebanese Protests Begin
In October 2019, mass demonstrations began in Lebanon initially sparked by proposed taxes on gasoline, tobacco, and online phone calls. The protests quickly escalated into wider condemnation of sectarian rule, economic struggles, corruption, and inadequate public services.
December 2019: Hassan Diab Designated Prime Minister
In December 2019, amidst ongoing protests and political crisis in Lebanon, former Education Minister Hassan Diab was appointed as the new Prime Minister, tasked with forming a new cabinet. This appointment was met with continued protests and civil disobedience.
2019: Pew Research Center Survey on LGBT Acceptance
In 2019, a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center revealed that a significant majority (85%) of Lebanese respondents believed that homosexuality should not be accepted by society, highlighting the widespread discrimination against LGBT individuals in Lebanon.
2019: 2019–20 Lebanese protests
The 2019–20 Lebanese protests, a nationwide wave of demonstrations, began in 2019, driven by widespread anger at government corruption, economic mismanagement, and deteriorating living conditions.
2019: Gender and Sexuality Conference Moved Abroad
In 2019, a gender and sexuality conference, held annually in Lebanon since 2013, was moved abroad due to threats and pressure from a religious group. The group had called for the organizers' arrest and the conference's cancellation via Facebook, citing "incitement of immorality."
2019: Forest Landscape Integrity Index
In 2019, Lebanon's Forest Landscape Integrity Index was measured at 3.76 out of 10, ranking the country 141st globally out of 172 nations assessed.
2019: Central Bank Ponzi Scheme Exposed
By 2019, the Central Bank of Lebanon's long-standing Ponzi scheme, which relied on borrowing dollars at high interest rates to cover deficits and maintain a currency peg, became unsustainable due to insufficient new deposits. This led to bank closures, capital controls, and eventually, the country's default in 2020.
2019: Global Innovation Index Ranking
Lebanon held the 88th position in the Global Innovation Index in 2019.
August 2020: Beirut Port Explosion
A devastating explosion occurred at the port of Beirut in August 2020, resulting in significant destruction, over 200 deaths, and thousands of injuries. The explosion was attributed to 2,750 tonnes of improperly stored ammonium nitrate. The disaster led to renewed protests and the resignation of Prime Minister Hassan Diab and his cabinet.
2020: Agricultural Sector in Lebanon
As of 2020, Lebanon's agricultural sector, while employing 20-25% of the workforce, contributed only 3.1% to the national GDP. Despite having the highest proportion of arable land in the Arab world and diverse microclimates, the country relies heavily on food imports (80% of consumption). This reliance is partly due to the small scale of many farms, which hinders economies of scale. The ongoing economic crisis further exacerbates challenges for farmers by driving up import costs for essential inputs like seeds and fertilizers.
2020: University Rankings
As of 2020, the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik ranked in the 600s worldwide.
2020: Lebanon Defaults on Debt
In 2020, as a consequence of a protracted economic crisis and an unsustainable financial system, Lebanon defaulted on its debt obligations.
2020: Beirut Explosion
The 2020 Beirut explosion, a catastrophic event caused by the detonation of a large amount of ammonium nitrate stored at the Port of Beirut, devastated the city, causing widespread damage, numerous casualties, and exacerbating Lebanon's ongoing economic crisis.
2020: CIA World Factbook Religious Makeup Estimate
The CIA World Factbook estimated in 2020 that Lebanon's population (excluding refugees) was composed of: Muslim 67.8% (31.9% Sunni, 31.2% Shia, smaller percentages of Alawites and Ismailis), Christian 32.4%, Druze 4.5%, and very small numbers of Jews, Baha'is, Buddhists, and Hindus.
March 2021: Lebanon Faces Total Blackout Threat
In March 2021, Lebanon faced an imminent threat of a complete power outage due to a lack of funds to purchase fuel for power stations, as warned by the caretaker energy minister, Raymond Ghajar.
August 2021: Fuel Explosion in Northern Lebanon
A major fuel explosion occurred in northern Lebanon in August 2021, resulting in the tragic loss of 28 lives.
October 2021: Nationwide Power Outage and Sectarian Violence
In October 2021, Lebanon experienced a 24-hour nationwide power outage caused by fuel shortages at its two primary power stations. This event was followed by deadly sectarian clashes in Beirut, marking the worst violence in the country since 2008.
2021: Lebanese Population Estimate
In 2021, the population of Lebanon was estimated to be 5,592,631.
2021: Protests Continue, Economic Crisis Deepens
Throughout 2021, Lebanon continued to grapple with protests and a worsening economic crisis. Demonstrators blocked roads in protest against poverty and economic hardship.
2021: University Rankings
As of 2021, Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) ranked 701st worldwide.
January 2022: Economic Crisis Worsens, Election Delay
By January 2022, Lebanon's economic crisis had further deteriorated, marked by a sharp decline in the value of the Lebanese pound and an indefinite postponement of the scheduled general election.
April 2022: Tragic Migrant Boat Incident
In April 2022, a tragic incident occurred off the coast of Tripoli, Lebanon, where an overloaded boat carrying migrants sank. Six lives were lost, and approximately 50 people were rescued.
May 2022: Parliamentary Election Amidst Economic Crisis
Lebanon held its first parliamentary election in May 2022 since the onset of a severe economic crisis. The election resulted in a loss of parliamentary majority for the Shia Muslim Hezbollah movement and its allies, despite Hezbollah retaining its seats.
May 2022: Parliamentary elections held
The most recent parliamentary elections in Lebanon took place on May 15, 2022.
2022: University Rankings
As of 2022, the American University of Beirut ranked second in the Middle East and 226th worldwide.
February 2023: Lebanese Pound Devalued
On February 1, 2023, the central bank of Lebanon implemented a 90% devaluation of the Lebanese pound in response to the country's ongoing financial crisis. This action marked the first official exchange rate devaluation in Lebanon in 25 years.
2023: V-Dem ranks Lebanon high in electoral democracy
According to the V-Dem Democracy indices in 2023, Lebanon is recognized as the second most electorally democratic country in the Middle East.
2023: Worst Economic Crisis in Decades
By 2023, Lebanon is grappling with its most severe economic crisis in decades, characterized by a 40% GDP contraction since 2018, a 95% currency depreciation, and an inflation rate exceeding 200%. The minimum wage has plummeted to the equivalent of $1 per day.
2023: Global Innovation Index Ranking
Lebanon's ranking in the Global Innovation Index declined to 92nd in 2023, compared to its 88th position in 2019.