Beirut: Under the patronage of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, the Social Affairs Ministry launched its ‘Social Development Strategy and Implementation Plan’ during a ceremony at the Grand Serail, marking the ministry’s transformation from a welfare body into a Ministry of Social Development.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, Minister of Social Affairs Hanine Sayed described the reform as ‘a structural shift placing people at the center of national policy.’ She said the ministry’s new role extends beyond social aid to planning, coordination, and policymaking aimed at inclusive social and economic empowerment.
Prime Minister Salam praised the initiative as part of the government’s broader reform agenda, noting that ‘financial stability cannot exist without social justice.’ Salam further revealed that social spending in the 2026 budget had increased by over 40 percent to strengthen education, healthcare, and protection systems.
The event gathered ministers, MPs, ambassadors, and international partners, including UN and ESCWA officials. The strategy envisions nationwide digitalization, stronger inter-ministerial coordination, and private sector partnerships to ensure equitable social protection and balanced development across Lebanon.