For Lebanese citizens, migration is no longer just a geographical escape from crises. Amid ongoing Israeli aggression, it has turned into a parallel battlefield where expatriates share the burden of resilience and suffering alongside their families back home. In an exclusive interview with 'Werdana', Maroun Karam, head of the expatriate council in Belgium, provides a sharp and realistic analysis of the depth of Lebanon's humanitarian and political crisis and the responsibility of the diaspora to address it.
Constant Worry and Increased Responsibility
Karam explains that the Lebanese diaspora in Belgium and across Europe is experiencing a state of 'constant worry'. Although physically abroad, their minds remain fixated on Lebanon around the clock. This situation is accompanied by a chronic guilt felt by expatriates who enjoy safety while their families in Lebanon lack basic life necessities amid rampant chaos and inflation.
This reality has compelled expatriates into a fundamental transformation, where they are forced to assume the role of a 'substitute state' to ensure their family's survival. The matter has evolved from mere emotional nostalgia to a 'responsible pain', with expatriates clinging to their homeland more than ever, making the defense of Lebanon a part of their daily lives.
On the financial level, Karam notes a natural shift in the role of remittances, which have transformed from occasional aid to 'monthly salaries', vital for covering essential expenses like education, healthcare, and daily sustenance.
Karam cites World Bank data to emphasize that expatriate remittances have become the main lifeline for Lebanon's collapsed economy, shifting the concept of expatriation from personal success to a direct national and familial responsibility to save what remains of Lebanon's resilience.
Diplomatic Pressure and Exposing Reality
The Lebanese community in Belgium and Europe engages on two parallel tracks according to Karam. The first is humanitarian, focusing on liaising with international organizations to deliver medical aid, which has been facilitated by EU channels.
The second track is political and diplomatic, involving proactive lobbying efforts across European capitals, including Brussels and Paris. These include intensive meetings with EU officials to communicate Lebanon's reality transparently, advocating for direct international aid to the Lebanese people to bypass corrupt systems.
Consensus for a Functioning State
Karam observes that expatriate political discussions have become more candid and bold, reflecting recent European shifts in perspectives toward Lebanon's struggles. Despite natural divisions mirroring internal splits, there is a consensus among expatriates on two main priorities.
The first priority is living in dignity and stability, demanding a strong state to protect all citizens. The second is the immediate cessation of futile wars that have burdened expatriates unnecessarily.
Regional Adventures' Heavy Price
Karam harshly criticizes what he describes as the 'collective political suicide' by factions living in denial of reality. He blames Hezbollah and Iran's ventures for leading Lebanon to collapse and widespread displacement, significantly deeming the Iranian threat more severe than external aggressions.
Karam ends with strong criticisms of Iran's diplomatic conduct in Beirut, labeling the armed displays by the Iranian ambassador as provocative and noting their unofficial acceptance. He also condemns Hezbollah's accusations against Lebanese officials, urging introspection on their practices.
Karam concludes that the Lebanese expatriate today is in a 'voluntary Wi-Fi-equipped exile', bearing triple burdens: the emotional and physical distance from Lebanon, the financial support of family back home, and the fierce defense of Lebanon's name globally.