USAID Lebanon: From the American People
 

PRESS RELEASE

UNITED STATES SUPPORTS THE MINISTRY OF THE INTERIOR FOR ELECTIONS

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Beirut, Lebanon

Showing U.S. support for the Lebanese electoral process, Ambassador Michele J. Sison witnessed the signing of an agreement between the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)/Lebanon Mission Director Denise A. Herbol and the Minister of Interior and Municipalities Mr. Ziad Baroud to provide technical assistance. 

Ambassador Sison noted that:   “The Ministry’s role in these elections is key in a variety of areas, including voter registration, certifying candidates, support for Lebanese and international observation missions, and the tabulation of election results.”

USAID will provide $1.7 million in assistance to the Ministry through its partner, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems or IFES.  The expert assistance from IFES will assist the Ministry to carry out its responsibilities regarding the upcoming national elections.

Interior Minister Ziad Baroud developed a master plan for donor countries wishing to provide assistance for the 2009 elections.  With this assistance, the United States is showing its support, including support for election monitors.  Over the last several years, the United States has provided $10.5 million for programs to assist Lebanon to carry out fair, transparent elections and to improve the functioning of its democracy.

USAID works in several areas including education, environment, economic growth, and with Lebanese citizens to promote democracy and good governance.  The over $1.3 billion of U.S. assistance since 2006, including security assistance, testifies to the United States’ unwavering support for Lebanon.