Europeanization Through Democratization: Human Rights Assistance to Lebanon

Mgr. Jad Farhat

Master's thesis

Abstract:

This study explores the impacts of the European Union’s (EU) human rights assistance to Lebanon through Europeanization in relation with the process of democratization of the system. Qualitative research approach was used, utilizing both secondary data from literature and primary data from three interviews conducted with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) on matters related to rights of marginalized groups and democracy such as women’s rights, the LGBTQIA+ community and democratic, free and fair elections. The purpose of this research is to focus on how EU interventions support the civil society which in turn promotes democratic norms and values leading to systematic change bottom-up, despite the challenges raised by the consociational sectarian system and the resistance to reforms. The results highlight the potential and the limitations of foreign democratic interventions in post-war and conflict prone societies with weak institutions. It emphasizes the significance of supporting grassroot change through civil societies balanced with systemic advocacy. This piece concludes with a set of recommendations based on practical and reviewed evidence for improving the EU’s human rights assistance strategies, leading to a wider discussion on democracy and European norm diffusion.

Keywords

Europeanization, Democracy, Norm diffusion, Euro-Mediterranean, Human rights assistance, Civil society, Non-governmental organizations

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 18. 12. 2024

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 16. 1. 2025
• Supervisor: Mgr. Vladimir Vučković, Ph.D.
• Reader: JUDr. Ing. Jan Lhotský, Ph.D.

Masaryk University

Faculty of Social Studies

Master programme / field:
International Relations and European Politics / International Relations and European Politics