The members of the International Support Group (ISG) for Lebanon welcome today's agreement of a new electoral framework. The ISG sees this as a further step towards the reactivation of Lebanon's institutions of state and the normalisation of Lebanese political life, which will in turn be conducive to addressing pressing concerns of Lebanon's citizens, and to enhanced cooperation with the international community.

In the spirit of continued political progress, members of the ISG stress that the timely conduct of peaceful and transparent parliamentary elections, in accordance with the Constitution, and reflecting the country's democratic traditions, will be important to sustain progress achieved to date. It is also important that technical delays are dealt with effectively so as to allow for the prompt organization of elections. In this regard, ISG members are willing to provide Lebanon with relevant technical assistance.

The ISG also notes the importance of achieving the meaningful participation of women candidates in the electoral process, as also foreseen in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted in 2015, with a view to increasing women representation in the decision-making bodies of Lebanese institutions.

Note to Editors

The International Support Group has brought together the United Nations and the governments of China, France, Germany, Italy, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States, together with the European Union and the Arab League.  It was launched in September 2013 by the UN Secretary-General with President Sleiman to help mobilize support and assistance for Lebanon’s stability, sovereignty and state institutions and to specifically encourage assistance for the Lebanese Army,  Syrian refugees in Lebanon and host communities and government programs and public services impacted by the Syrian crisis.