Beirut: The Ministry of Social Affairs, in collaboration with the Basil Fuleihan Institute of Finance, has launched Lebanon's inaugural Citizen Budget for a government ministry, titled "The People's Budget from the Ministry of the People." This initiative, supported by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), marks a significant step in enhancing fiscal transparency and accessibility of public financial information for Lebanese citizens.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the launch event took place under the patronage of H.E. Haneen Sayed, Minister of Social Affairs, who emphasized the importance of this initiative in reflecting the Ministry's commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and investing in social development. The 2026 budget, amounting to USD 181.7 million, highlights allocations for social assistance, services, and economic inclusion, with 98.5% of the budget directed towards social programs.

Minister Sayed underscored the significance of the Lebanese Government financing the AMAN cash assistance program, indicating a shift towards making social protection a core state responsibility. Additionally, she announced a proposal for a budget increase to USD 300 million for 2027, with a focus on expanding the National Disability Allowance.

Ms. Lamia Moubayed Bissat, Director of the Basil Fuleihan Institute of Finance, highlighted the transformation of the budget from a technical document into a tool for public accountability. She noted Lebanon's pioneering role in the Arab region in adopting the Citizen Budget approach, contributing to improvements in fiscal transparency.

The event also included the premiere of the Ministry's Citizen Budget video, showcasing the impact of public spending on citizens' lives. The Ministry and the Institute reaffirmed their commitment to transparency and citizen engagement, hoping the initiative will serve as a model for other ministries in Lebanon's broader governance reform efforts.