Beirut: The newly constructed and rehabilitated sections of Horsh Beirut, the Lebanese capital’s largest green space, were inaugurated today following the completion of the first phase of revitalization under the ENABLE programme. This initiative was funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Municipality of Beirut, with support from local organizations Nahnoo and arcenciel. The project marks a significant milestone in transforming the park into an inclusive, vibrant, and sustainable public space for all.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, the opening ceremony was attended by Minister of Social Affairs Haneen El Sayed, ILO Regional Director for Arab States Ruba Jaradat, Mr. Hussein Mheidleh, Minister of Labour representative, Governor of Beirut Judge Marwan Abboud, Mr. Cyril Dewaleyne, Deputy Head of Cooperation at the Delegation of the European Union to Lebanon, Mr. Ibrahim Zeidan, mayor of the Municipality of Beirut, along with senior municipal officials and members of the local community.
The revitalization efforts included the construction of a 1.7 km bicycle lane, improvements to the skatepark, and the rehabilitation of public bathrooms and sanitary facilities. These interventions aim to make Horsh Beirut a flagship model of inclusive and sustainable public space revitalization, fostering social cohesion, decent work opportunities, and environmental awareness.
Minister of Social Affairs Dr. Haneen El Sayed emphasized that the project’s importance extends beyond the park’s rehabilitation; it sends a message that Beirut deserves to reclaim its public spaces, providing a safe, inclusive, and environmentally friendly area for all Lebanese. The project also focuses on accessibility standards for persons with disabilities, the elderly, and children, embodying justice and equality. Dr. El Sayed highlighted their efforts to connect beneficiaries of social protection programs to the labor market, with a goal of zero poverty.
Regional Director Ruba Jaradat highlighted the project’s role in improving the city’s largest green space, opening it up to a wider range of activities. The project has provided opportunities for 200 young people on the margins of the labor market, and future plans include creating an amphitheater, a library, and additional green areas, supporting over 400 more people currently receiving social assistance.
Governor Marwan Abboud noted the challenges Horsh Beirut has faced, including infrastructure pressure and limited financial resources. Thanks to the International Labour Organization’s support, they are now launching a new phase of rehabilitation, upgrading facilities, and enhancing the park’s environmental role in Beirut.
Cyril Dewaleyne, representing the European Union, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to investing in public spaces, emphasizing their necessity for a healthy, inclusive, and vibrant city. Green spaces contribute to making cities more resilient to climate change and more livable for all.
The event featured a guided tour of the new cycling path, upgraded skate park, and rehabilitated sanitary facilities, showcasing the park’s potential as a hub for recreation and community life. The ceremony included inclusive sports demonstrations, a community bike ride, live music, and environmental awareness booths, engaging participants and highlighting the program’s commitment to sustainability.
The ceremony celebrated the completion of the first phase of ENABLE interventions and launched a series of upcoming ENABLE activities, reinforcing the park’s role as a safe, inclusive, and sustainable public space for the community.