The August 4 Beirut Blast: Conditional Assistance

Eight months after the port disaster, many Lebanese who lost family, homes or businesses are still awaiting the results of an investigation into the causes of the blast (MEE/Chloe Domat)

Currently, France and Germany are leading efforts to repair the damage caused by the port blast. France is contributing €500,000 to restore the vibrant stained-glass windows and historic first floor of Beirut’s Sursock Museum. As for Germany, it plans to submit a proposal detailing its prospective reconstruction efforts. However, Germany’s assistance will only come at a price Lebanese politician cannot afford: the formation of a government with a clear anti-corruption agenda.  Lebanon would also need to comply with the EIB’s (European Bank) procurement guidelines, environmental and social standards.

Hopefully, the political deadlock will end in Lebanon and politicians will finally form a government. Unfortunately, given the complexity of the situation, this is easier said than done.

Those Silos Must Go

According to a report released by Swiss firm Amann Engineering, grain elevators damaged by the explosion will have to be destroyed because they risk collapsing. As such this report translates into one thing: Additional reconstruction costs. Luckily, Lebanon does not have the money to pay for them; it will have to wait for foreign support, from Germany for example.

Communication and Public Relations Department