Country Profile: Lebanon

Lebanon is a small Middle Eastern country positioned at the crossroads of three continents, known for its rich cultural and religious diversity. With a population of approximately 5.36 million, the country has faced significant economic challenges since 2019, including hyperinflation and a collapse of its banking sector. Governed as a parliamentary democratic republic, Lebanon's political landscape is heavily influenced by sectarianism amidst ongoing conflicts with neighboring Israel and internal groups. The nation is characterized by its Mediterranean climate, strategic location along the Mediterranean Sea, and substantial urbanization, particularly in its capital, Beirut.

Geography

Lebanon is located in the Middle East, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the west, Israel to the south, and Syria to the north and east. The country covers an area of 10,400 square kilometers, with a majority of its population residing near the coastal regions, particularly around Beirut. Lebanon's varied terrain includes narrow coastal plains and mountainous regions, while its climate features mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.

10,400 sq km: Total area of Lebanon.
484 km: Total land boundaries with Israel and Syria.
225 km: Length of Lebanon's coastline.
13.1%: Proportion of arable land as of 2023.
3,088 m: Highest point in Lebanon, Qornet es Saouda.

People and Society

Lebanon has a diverse population estimated at around 5.36 million people, with a rich mosaic of religious sects and ethnicities. The majority of its citizens are Arab (95%), with Armenians as the largest minority. The country has a vibrant cultural scene shaped by significant historical influences and is characterized by its multilingual society, with Arabic being the official language, alongside French and English.

67.8%: Percentage of the population identifying as Muslim.
32.4%: Percentage of Christians in Lebanon.
89.4%: Urban population as of 2023.
16.73 births/1,000: Birth rate for 2025.
79.2 years: Life expectancy at birth in 2024.

Economy

Lebanon's economy is classified as lower middle-income, suffering severe downturns since 2019 due to hyperinflation and extensive poverty. The GDP (PPP) in 2023 is estimated at $65.415 billion, with significant contributions from the service sector. Economic activity has been disrupted by political instability and conflict, leading to a high unemployment rate and a reliance on remittances.

$11,300: Real GDP per capita for 2023.
11.6%: Unemployment rate in 2023.
221.3%: Inflation rate in 2023.
33.3%: Remittances as a percentage of GDP in 2023.
1.939 million: Estimated labor force in 2023.

Government

Lebanon operates as a parliamentary democratic republic, with its political framework shaped significantly by sectarian affiliations. The President and Prime Minister are key figures in the government structure, elected indirectly and appointed, respectively. The country's constitution was established in 1926 and has undergone amendments through a complex legislative process.

8: Number of administrative divisions (governorates).
128: Total seats in the unicameral National Assembly.
21: Minimum voting age for citizens.
Joseph AOUN: Current President since January 2025.
Nawaf SALAM: Current Prime Minister since February 2025.

Military and Security

The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) are responsible for national defense, border security, and internal stability, with an active personnel strength of about 70,000. Military expenditures have fluctuated, reflecting economic pressures. The LAF operates alongside various internal security forces tasked with law enforcement and public security.

2.9%: Military expenditure as a percentage of GDP in 2022.
18-25 years: Age range for voluntary military service.
UNIFIL: UN peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon since 1978.

Energy

Lebanon's energy infrastructure includes a mix of fossil fuels, solar, and hydroelectric power sources. The country has achieved a 100% electrification rate, with significant challenges in energy consumption and distribution.

5.161 million kW: Installed electricity generating capacity as of 2023.
4.077 billion kWh: Total electricity consumption in 2023.
115,000 bbl/day: Refined petroleum consumption in 2023.

Environment

Lebanon faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, pollution, and waste management issues. The country is a party to various international environmental agreements, aimed at addressing these ecological concerns.

65.9%: Agricultural land usage as of 2023.
2.04 million tons: Estimated annual municipal solid waste generated in 2024.
15%: Municipal solid waste recycling rate as of 2022.

Transportation

Lebanon's transportation infrastructure includes several airports, a limited railway system, and a growing merchant marine fleet. While the railway remains largely unusable due to past conflicts, air travel and port facilities remain vital for connectivity.

8: Total airports as of 2025.
51: Number of vessels in the merchant marine fleet in 2023.
401 km: Total railway length (not currently operational).

Communications

Lebanon has seen considerable growth in its telecommunications sector, with a high percentage of the population having access to the internet and mobile services. The country has multiple television and radio stations, contributing to a diverse media landscape.

84%: Percentage of population using the internet in 2023.
4.29 million: Total mobile cellular subscriptions as of 2021.
875,000: Total fixed line subscriptions as of 2021.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	5,364,482	Estimated as of 2024
Area	10,400 sq km	Total area
GDP (PPP)	$65.415 billion	Estimated for 2023
Real GDP per capita	$11,300	Estimated for 2023
Unemployment rate	11.6%	Estimated for 2023
Birth rate	16.73 births/1,000	Estimated for 2025
Life expectancy	79.2 years	Estimated for 2024
Military expenditure (% of GDP)	2.9%	Estimated for 2022
Electrification rate	100%	Total population
Annual municipal solid waste	2.04 million tons	Estimated for 2024