Dr. Amine Iskandar delivers speech on behalf of USUP advocating for federalism to preserve Lebanon’s Christian identity at Budapest conference

BUDAPEST — Speaking at The Future of Lebanon from a Christian Perspective conference, Dr. Amine Iskandar, on behalf of the Universal Syriac Union Party (USUP) and its President Ibrahim Mrad, delivered a speech analyzing the challenges facing Lebanon’s Christian community. The speech painted a picture of systemic marginalization, historical struggles, and a roadmap to safeguard Christian identity through federalism.

The speech began by reflecting on Lebanon’s foundation in 1920, emphasizing that from its inception, the country faced rejection from factions viewing it as an artificial entity incompatible with visions of a broader Muslim ‘ummah’ or pan-Arab superstate. He highlighted a tragic history of persecution, starting as early as 1925, marked by massacres and sustained efforts to undermine Lebanon’s Christian community.

History of Decline and Marginalization

Dr. Iskandar traced the roots of Christian vulnerability to internal and external pressures, listing key factors that have eroded their presence and influence.

From the destruction of villages like Damour in 1976 to the 30-year Syrian occupation, he detailed how Christians were systematically uprooted, with displaced populations replaced by non-Christian communities.

Dr. Iskandar pointed to economic instability, particularly the 2019 banking sector collapse, which disproportionately impacted the middle-class — predominantly Christian — and forced widespread emigration. He also condemned the naturalization of non-Lebanese populations, which altered Lebanon’s demographic balance.

The 1989 Taif Agreement, which enshrined Lebanon’s exclusively Arab identity, was criticized for alienating Christian youth and undermining their historical ties to the land. Additionally, Dr. Iskandar noted the weakening of the Christian political presence, particularly the reduction of presidential powers.

Dr. Iskandar described the 2020 Beirut port explosion as a culmination of decades of neglect and hostility, devastating the capital and its cultural and economic institutions.

Call for Federalism

The speech emphasized that the demographic imbalance between Christians and Muslims has reached a critical point, making the Christian community’s survival increasingly precarious. He warned against the Islamists’ new strategy of leveraging modern Western ideals — such as democracy, secularism, and deconfessionalization — to further marginalize Christians by eliminating quotas in governance.

To counter this “diabolical strategy,” Dr. Iskandar proposed federalism as the only viable solution. He advocated for a system of geographical and cultural federalism that transcends numbers, respects diversity, and preserves coexistence. He referenced the Catholic Church’s 1935 social doctrine, which supports federalism as a means to uphold community identities while fostering collaboration.

Preserving the Christian Presence

Dr. Iskandar concluded his address with an urgent plea to preserve Lebanon’s Christian demography. He called for a reimagining of governance structures to ensure Christians remain integral to Lebanon’s future, warning that without swift action, the country risks losing its Christian heritage entirely.

The conference, held in Budapest, brought together scholars, political leaders, and activists to discuss the challenges and future of Lebanon’s Christian community. Dr. Iskandar’s speech served as a sobering reminder of the pressing need for structural reforms and renewed efforts to protect Lebanon’s pluralistic identity.

As Lebanon grapples with its identity in the face of economic collapse and political instability, Dr. Iskandar’s call for federalism may reignite conversations about how best to preserve the country’s unique cultural fabric.