Digital transformation must go beyond technology and place human rights, inclusion, accountability and public trust at its centre. That is a key conclusion in a new study carried out by DanChurchAid Lebanon.
The study, “Digital Transformation and Human Rights in Lebanon: Progress, Governance, and Emerging Challenges,” provides an overview of Lebanon’s current digital landscape and examines how digital transformation is affecting governance, public services, human rights and democratic participation.
Lebanon has important assets to build on, including a highly educated population, a dynamic technology sector, universities and research institutions, and a strong culture of entrepreneurship.
At the same time, the study identifies persistent barriers, including fragmented institutions, limited coordination, weak digital infrastructure, electricity challenges, unequal access to the internet, financial constraints and shortages of specialised skills.
Digital transformation and human rights
Through a human rights and governance lens, the study evaluates digital transformation across key areas including privacy, free expression, cybersecurity, digital inclusion, and AI.
It warns that without targeted action on affordability, literacy, and infrastructure, digital advances risk compounding existing social inequalities.
Finally, it underlines the need for trusted digital public services and identity systems backed by robust privacy, transparency, and security safeguards.
Six priorities for the way forward
Based on its findings, the study identifies six interconnected priorities for Lebanon:
- Strengthening institutional leadership and coordination;
- Modernising the legal and regulatory framework;
- Building trusted, secure and interoperable digital public services;
- Promoting digital inclusion and strengthening digital skills;
- Establishing responsible governance frameworks for cybersecurity and artificial intelligence; and
- Strengthening monitoring, evaluation and public accountability.
The study is intended as a starting point for dialogue rather than a final policy blueprint. Its findings and proposed directions are expected to inform further consultations with government institutions, Parliament, civil society, academia, the private sector and development partners.
As Lebanon prepares for the next stage of its digital transformation, the study emphasises that technological progress alone will not be enough. Sustained investment, stronger coordination, modern legislation and meaningful public engagement will be essential to ensure that digital transformation contributes to better governance while protecting the rights and freedoms of people across Lebanon.
The study was completed and published on 31 August 2026 and reflects the legal, institutional and policy developments available up to that date. It was developed as a baseline for the EU-funded project “Advancing Human Rights Through Digital Transformation in Lebanon.”
