Minorities (Lebanon)

Lebanon is a diverse country with a complex mosaic of religious and ethnic minorities. While the Maronite Christians have historically held a privileged position in the power-sharing structure, the country officially recognizes 18 religious sects. This recognition extends legal autonomy over matters such as personal status laws (marriage, divorce, inheritance) to each sect.

Key minority groups in Lebanon include:

• Sunni Muslims: While a significant portion of the population, Sunni Muslims are often considered separate from the dominant Maronite Christian group.
• Shia Muslims: Similar to Sunni Muslims, Shia Muslims are a large group, but still a minority in the overall confessional balance of power.
• Druze: An ethno-religious group with a unique syncretic faith that originated from Islam. They hold significant political sway, especially in the Chouf Mountains.
• Armenian Christians: Composed of both Armenian Orthodox and Armenian Catholic adherents, this community is one of the largest and most historically established Christian minorities.
• Greek Orthodox Christians: The second largest Christian denomination in Lebanon.
• Greek Catholic Christians (Melkites): An Eastern Catholic church in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church.
• Protestant Christians: Various Protestant denominations are present in Lebanon.
• Alawites: A religious group concentrated in certain northern areas of the country.
• Kurds: Primarily Sunni Muslims, the Kurdish population is concentrated in specific areas.
• Palestinian Refugees: A significant and often marginalized population, primarily Sunni Muslim, though some are Christian. Their legal status and integration into Lebanese society have been ongoing issues.
• Jewish Community: Historically a vibrant community, the Jewish population has dwindled significantly due to emigration and conflict.
• Syriac Orthodox and Syriac Catholic Christians: Ancient Christian communities with their own liturgical traditions.
• Chaldean Catholics: Another Eastern Catholic church.
• Assyrian Church of the East: Also known as Nestorian Christians.
• Baháʼí Faith: A small Baháʼí community exists.

The political system in Lebanon, based on confessionalism, allocates parliamentary seats and government positions based on religious affiliation, which can both protect and limit the influence of minority groups. This system is intended to ensure representation for all sects, but it has also been criticized for reinforcing sectarian divisions and hindering national unity. Concerns remain regarding equal rights, representation, and socio-economic opportunities for all minorities within the country. The ongoing presence of Syrian refugees, predominantly Sunni Muslims, has further complicated the demographic and political landscape of Lebanon.