The status of Christians in Lebanon has become a key topic of debate among Christian political and party groups, who gathered in Budapest to discuss the future of Lebanon’s Christian presence. The discussions focused on the increasing emigration of Christians in light of ongoing security and political crises, as well as the dwindling job opportunities for Lebanese youth, particularly Christians.

While Lebanon has struggled to convene such discussions domestically, Hungary succeeded in bringing together various Lebanese factions by organizing, sponsoring, and hosting the conference, titled “The Future of Lebanon from a Christian Perspective.” The initiative comes amid growing concerns over the Christian presence in the Middle East, fueled by the rise of extremist Islamist movements, which threaten Lebanon’s delicate coexistence between Christians and Muslims.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó, who hosted the event, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting Christians in the region. He stated that the conference aimed to launch programs designed to help Christians remain in their homelands by providing jobs, supporting education, and sustaining religious institutions. He emphasized that "the international community must work swiftly to reinstate support and ease this burden."

Maronite Bishop Paul Sayah, who represented Patriarch Bechara al-Rahi following the latter’s return to Lebanon due to health concerns, echoed the Hungarian minister’s sentiments. He stressed that "the presence of a strong Christian community in Lebanon has played a crucial role in fostering peaceful coexistence with Muslims in the region and in curbing Islamic extremism and terrorism." Sayah added that "Lebanon’s Christians have faced numerous internal and external challenges in recent years, exacerbated by ongoing conflicts in Syria, Iraq, and Israel. These pressures have led to increased migration, with many Christians leaving in search of greater security and opportunities abroad." He emphasized that supporting Christians would ultimately benefit all communities in the region.

The conference saw participation from several Lebanese political factions, including the Kataeb Party, Lebanese Forces, and Free Patriotic Movement, as well as Christian MPs and leaders from various political backgrounds. Discussions centered on preserving and revitalizing Lebanon’s Christian community, with a proposal to establish a support fund financed by contributions from the Lebanese diaspora, as well as European and American governments and organizations. Representatives from Austria, Italy, Cyprus, Sweden, the Order of Malta, and other civil society institutions with ties to the U.S. administration also attended the conference.

On the sidelines of the event, Kataeb leader Samy Gemayel met with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán at the latter’s invitation, where he observed Hungary’s strong commitment to providing assistance and support. The two leaders agreed to maintain communication and explore further collaboration.

At the close of the conference, attendees recommended the establishment of a support fund, which Hungary would initially oversee by developing the necessary mechanisms for its implementation. The conference also proposed holding a follow-up event in early summer, with the exact date to be determined based on progress in securing additional support. Some participants indicated that financial backing for the fund would come from Hungary, other European nations, the United States, and Lebanese expatriates, with the aim of supporting key sectors, including education, healthcare, social welfare, and institutions dedicated to fostering coexistence and combating violence and extremism.

This conference marks yet another example of Hungary’s ongoing commitment to supporting Lebanon’s Christian community. Over the past five years, Hungary has launched several initiatives, including church restoration projects, which ultimately led to the organization of this high-profile gathering.

This is an English adaptation of an Arabic article published by Annahar.