Happy summers distort the true face of Lebanon's crisis

Summer villages and tourist spots witness similar enthusiasm, accompanied by reviews reminiscent of nouveau riche expressions, though perhaps lacking in subtlety and tact.

Amidst this apparent abundance, some wonder where the crisis lies and why there are still pessimistic voices. They argue that this could be an attempt to undermine the "inherent love of the Lebanese for life" and discourage potential investors from bringing much-needed financial support to the country.

Distorted belief in Lebanese exceptionalism

The creation of a fabricated "mystery" around the supposed economic recovery is, in fact, a manifestation of the broader crisis in Lebanon.

This crisis is characterised by the persistent belief in a unique Lebanese exceptionalism, whether in terms of past prosperity before the civil war, education levels, or a perceived connection to an ancient and imagined civilisation, which is juxtaposed with the prevailing global civilisation.

Additionally, there is a tendency to emphasise formal affiliations with wealthy individuals or Arab countries, seeking sources of strength, immunity, and dominance that are not based on self-sufficiency or locally generated resources.

This aspect is present across the various segments of Lebanese society, spanning the civil spectrum. The display of wealth and power and the glorification of violence are deeply rooted issues within Lebanese society, contributing to its historical challenges.

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This insistence on showcasing prosperity and success, often depicted in photos of vacationers, wedding participants, and luxury yacht trips, obscures the reality of the broader public sphere. It leads to a superficial interpretation that assumes everyone in Lebanon enjoys a luxurious life, which is far from accurate.

The reality is that we must take a comprehensive view, considering the conflicting factors surrounding Lebanon. The country is experiencing its most severe economic, social, and political crisis in history.

A nation in decay

Despite the apparent contentment and prosperity portrayed in social media posts by some, millions of individuals are grappling with hardships and facing significant challenges in making ends meet and securing livelihoods.

The situation has been exacerbated by the collapse of state institutions and the public sector, which has contributed significantly to this dire state of affairs.

Read more: Lebanon: A nation in decay

One must look beyond the glittering lights of nightclubs and restaurants to get a clearer and more accurate view of the country's state. Empty government offices, with employees only attending work a few days a week due to the high transportation costs, are indicative of the widespread challenges faced by ordinary Lebanese citizens.

The cessation of work and economic downturn in Lebanon has severe consequences for its people, leaving their interests, daily lives, and livelihoods vulnerable to the influence of various powerful entities.

Neighbourhood leaders, mafias, and political parties, with their own agendas, impose their dominance over citizens who are increasingly in need of protection, security, and basic necessities.

As the state withdraws from its responsibilities towards its citizens, the private sector gains more control, prioritising quick profits over the well-being of the people. This often leads to resistance against any form of oversight, even from the judiciary, as evident in the behaviour of banks towards their depositors during the crisis.

In this dire situation, it becomes crucial for individuals, especially those with influence on social media platforms, to take a step back and broaden their perspectives.

Instead of superficial portrayals of prosperity and success, it is essential to engage with information from international institutions operating in Lebanon and the discussions held in Arab and international capitals regarding the catastrophic state the country finds itself in.

Acknowledging the role that internal factors have played in Lebanon's situation is vital. While external factors may have had an impact, it is crucial to recognise the responsibility of the Lebanese themselves for the current state of affairs.