Beirut's Largest Park Becomes Inclusion Symbol

The newly constructed/rehabilitated sections of Horsh Beirut, the Lebanese capital's largest green space, was inaugurated today following the completion of the first phase of revitalization under the ENABLE programme, funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Municipality of Beirut and in close coordination and partnership with local organizations Nahnoo and arcenciel. The initiative marks a milestone in transforming the park into an inclusive, vibrant and sustainable public space for all.

The opening ceremony took place in the presence of Minister of Social Affairs Haneen El Sayed, ILO Regional Director for Arab States Ruba Jaradat, Mr Hussein Mheidleh, minister of Labour representative, Governor of Beirut Judge Marwan Abboud, as well as Mr. Cyril Dewaleyne, Deputy Head of Cooperation at the Delegation of the European Union to Lebanon, Mr. Ibrahim Zeidan, mayor of the Municipality of Beirut, senior municipal officials and members of the local community.

The revitalization works included the construction of a 1.7 km bicycle lane, improvements to the skatepark, and the rehabilitation of public bathrooms and sanitary facilities. These interventions aim to transform Horsh Beirut into a flagship model of inclusive, sustainable and participatory public space revitalization that fosters social cohesion, decent work opportunities and environmental awareness.

Minister of Social Affairs Dr. Haneen El Sayed affirmed "The importance of this project does not lie only in the rehabilitation of a park, but in the message, it carries: that Beirut deserves to reclaim its public spaces, and that all Lebanese have the right to meet in a safe, inclusive, and environmentally friendly space. This is why it is essential that the park be accessible to everyone, with full consideration of accessibility standards for persons with disabilities, the elderly, and children, truly embodying the values of justice and equality. She also added: "Our work is based on linking beneficiaries of social protection programmes to the labour market, enabling them to move from temporary assistance to sustainable job opportunities, in pursuit of our goal: zero poverty. To reinforce this approach, we have established a referral unit for economic inclusion, connecting the private sector-which provides jobs-with jobseekers among the beneficiaries of the 'Aman' programme and those registered in the 'DAEM' social registry database."

Regional Director Ruba Jaradat emphasized the significance of this milestone: "Our support for the rehabilitation of Horsh Beirut stands as a powerful symbol of our commitment to Lebanon's recovery. The project has significantly improved the city's largest green space for residents from all walks of life, reopening it to a wider range of sports and recreational activities. Beyond rehabilitating the facilities of this public space, the project has also provided 200 young women and men, previously on the margins of the labour market, with real opportunities for decent work. We will continue this journey by creating a new amphitheatre, a library and an additional green area. In the coming months, we will also support more than 400 additional people who are currently receiving social assistance, enabling them to regain their capacity and set out on pathways towards productive employment".

Governor Marwan Abboud highlighted "Over the past years, Horsh Beirut has faced major challenges, including pressure on its infrastructure, attempted encroachments, fires, and limited financial resources. Despite this, we managed to preserve it as a green space for the residents of the capital. Today, thanks to the support of the International Labour Organization, we are launching a new phase of rehabilitation that includes upgrading facilities, creating a cycling track, enhancing lighting and security, and expanding planted areas. Our goal is for the park to remain an environmental landmark and a gathering space for the people of Beirut, while green spaces extend into the city's streets and neighbourhoods, making Beirut more beautiful and prosperous."

Cyril Dewaleyne, representative of the European Union, reaffirmed the EU's commitment: "For the EU, investing in public spaces like this park is not a luxury. It is a necessity. A healthy, inclusive, and vibrant city needs places where people can meet, connect, and feel part of the urban community. Green spaces also make cities more resilient to climate change, and more liveable for all."

During the event, guests embarked on a guided tour along the newly constructed cycling path, with stops at the upgraded skate park and rehabilitated sanitary facilities. The tour highlighted not only the physical improvements but also the park's potential as a hub for inclusive recreation and community life.

The ceremony continued with a series of vibrant activities designed to bring the park to life: inclusive sports demonstrations led by youth and coaches, a community bike ride as a symbol of shared ownership of the space, and live music that energized the atmosphere. Environmental awareness booths on recycling and eco-friendly practices further engaged participants, highlighting the programme's commitment to sustainability. These activities ensured broad participation from children, youth, families and persons with disabilities, showcasing Horsh Beirut's transformation into a safe, accessible and lively public space for all.

The ceremony not only celebrated the completion of the first phase of ENABLE interventions but also served as a launchpad for a series of upcoming ENABLE activities, including weekly biking, skateboarding and cultural events, as well as new upcoming projects in Horsh Beirut. These initiatives will continue to reinforce the park's role as a safe, inclusive and sustainable public space for the entire community.