Over the past year, Lebanese social media users have increasingly turned to platform X to voice their concerns about the nation’s political instability and its economic fallout. An analysis of nearly 2,923 Arabic-language posts reveals an overarching sense of anxiety, with over 60% expressing pressing worries about Lebanon's political corruption, regional conflicts, and economic collapse.

The Israeli assault in September marked a pivotal moment, with users drawing parallels to the Gaza Strip and fearing famine and a potential blockade.

While corruption and economic mismanagement dominated discussions early in 2024, fears of Lebanon being dragged into war became the primary concern as the year progressed.

Below is Al-Modon’s monthly breakdown of trends in Lebanese posts on platform X during 2024:

January: Depositors’ Rights and Corruption

The year began with 239 posts from 159 users lamenting political corruption that has jeopardized Lebanon’s economy and livelihoods. Recurring themes included the erosion of depositor rights and broader economic collapse. Approximately 40 posts advocated redefining Lebanon’s economic model and exploring its future regional role.

February: Tax Reforms

Tax reform and fiscal justice emerged as focal points in February, with 266 posts from 161 users. Of these, 116 emphasized that tax reform should be the cornerstone of Lebanon’s economic recovery.

March: Ignoring the Crises

By March, 304 posts from 178 users criticized the government for ignoring worsening economic conditions. Discussions centered on inflation and stagnant productivity, with hashtags like #Dollar, #Gasoline, and #Inflation reflecting public frustration with political failures.

April: Absence of Economic Development

In April, 286 posts from 170 users condemned political leaders for sidelining economic development. Around 35% of posts carried strong negative sentiments toward Lebanon’s political class.

May: IMF Reforms in Question

Delays in implementing International Monetary Fund (IMF) reforms became a focus in May, with 230 posts from 138 users. Many highlighted the detrimental impact of smuggling on the economy and private-sector efforts to rebuild.

June: Calls for Neutrality

Amid escalating regional tensions in June, 356 posts from 180 users underscored fears of Lebanon being drawn into war. Calls for neutrality dominated, with users stressing the country’s reliance on imports and the potentially devastating impact of a blockade.

July: Persistent Deficits

July saw 280 posts from 170 users addressing Lebanon’s ongoing fiscal deficits and economic struggles. Nearly 40% of these posts expressed frustration, while 37% conveyed outright pessimism.

August: War Economy and Tourism Decline

In August, posts split between concerns over a potential Israeli conflict and the declining tourism sector. Of 257 posts, 190 carried negative tones, with hashtags like #Beirut and #Tourism highlighting public dissatisfaction.

September: Living Amid Crisis

The Israeli assault in September prompted 221 posts from 145 users, with 86% expressing negative sentiments. Discussions centered on food and medicine shortages, currency instability, and supply chains, with hashtags like #TheWorstIsYetToCome and #CentralBankofLebanon.

October: Heightened Pessimism

As the Israeli offensive persisted, 201 posts from 140 users in October reflected growing pessimism. Discussions expanded beyond immediate agricultural and business losses to concerns about Lebanon’s potential placement on the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) financial grey list.

November: Counting the Costs

Reconstruction, economic losses, and recovery efforts dominated November’s 169 posts. Among them, 124 reflected despair over the extensive damage to Lebanon’s economy and infrastructure, with many questioning how funds for rebuilding would be secured.

December: Post-War Realities

By December 26, 159 posts captured Lebanese perspectives on a “post-war economy.” Despite the holiday season, 85 posts expressed lingering fears about ongoing Israeli incursions, counterfeit currency, weakened tourism, and the absence of viable solutions to Lebanon’s persistent challenges.