Lebanese MP Simon Abi Ramia participated in a seminar at the French Senate in Paris on 15 October to mark the centenary of the Lebanese Constitution. Sponsored by the President of the French Senate, Senator Gérard Larcher, the event was titled '1926–2026: French-Lebanese intersecting visions on constitutional heritage, the rule of law, and prospects for institutional development'.
Simon Abi Ramia, MP and head of the Lebanese-French Parliamentary Friendship Committee, stated: "Constitutional sovereignty and the rule of law face serious challenges as a result of political interference and the dominance of sectarian logic over a fundamental part of Lebanese political life." He added: "The required action is not to touch the foundations of the Lebanese system, but to address the flaws revealed by practice."
Constitutional Reform and Challenges
Simon Abi Ramia identified the persistent failure to implement the reforms mandated by the Taif Agreement as a primary driver of the nation’s structural instability. He specifically pointed to the absence of progress on the abolition of political sectarianism, a move intended to move the state toward a more inclusive and meritocratic governing model. He noted that the lack of established administrative decentralization remains a significant obstacle to effective governance. These unimplemented provisions, according to his assessment, continue to paralyze the state’s institutional functionality and exacerbate internal divisions. By failing to execute these established constitutional commitments, the political class has allowed sectarian influence to supersede the efficient administration of national affairs. Abi Ramia argued that correcting these specific deficits is essential for restoring the integrity of the constitutional framework. He maintained that these shortcomings prevent the development of a modern, stable legislative environment capable of meeting the current needs of the Lebanese public.
Legal Cooperation and Future Prospects
The Lebanese Ministry of Justice and the French Ministry of Justice are preparing a future agreement intended to allow lawyers from both nations to practice in the other country. This initiative aims to facilitate closer legal cooperation and professional exchange between the two jurisdictions.
Olivier Maricourt, a lawyer at the Lille Bar Association, is currently preparing for his upcoming leadership role within the organization. He has been elected as the head of the Lille Bar Association for the 2027–2028 term.
