In an urgent appeal, Maronite Patriarch Bechara al-Rahi has drawn attention to the severe dangers posed by Lebanon's "black economy" or "shadow economy." He raised this issue to an unprecedented level of concern by convening a high-profile meeting of Maronite figures at Dimane, the summer residence of the Maronite Patriarchate.

The meeting, held under the theme "The Danger of a Parallel Economy to Lebanon’s Entity and Coexistence," took place on Wednesday under the Patriarch’s chairmanship and was attended by Bishops Paul Matar, Paul Sayah, and Samir Mazloum, along with Maroun Mubarak, Superior General of the Maronite Lebanese Missionaries. The gathering also included key politicians, economists, and public affairs activists, all members of the Economy Committee and the Strategic Committee that operate under the auspices of Bkerke.

The Maronite Church’s alarm over the parallel economy reflects its deep concern about the existential threat this poses to the already fragile Lebanese state, which is exposed to multiple risks. When the Church warns that the shadow economy jeopardizes national coexistence, it suggests that this threat disproportionately targets certain communities, particularly Christians.

Al-Modon cited the meeting's participants as saying that the ongoing military conflict has crippled what little remains of the productive sectors, exacerbating economic stagnation and exposing the extensive structural damage inflicted by the black economy on the Lebanese economy.

The meeting featured a wide range of opinions, with some discussions taking a heated turn.

Sources told Al-Modon that several participants conveyed what they described as "calls from many Lebanese, especially Christians, to resort to civil disobedience and refuse to pay taxes, fees, and all dues owed to the state."

"Anyone who abides by the law, respects the State and its institutions, and operates within the legitimate economy loses twice in Lebanon—first, because of those who steal their work and compete through smuggling and tax evasion, and second, because of the taxes that law-abiding citizens pay on behalf of themselves and the evaders. A significant shock is needed to halt the paralysis of production and the dominance of rogue elements over the state, the economy, and the people," the sources added.

Some attendees even urged the Church to endorse civil disobedience, viewing it as a last resort.

"Many small and large institutions are on the brink of closure due to the parallel economy," they warned. Some went as far as to describe the current situation faced by Christians as "marginalization, impoverishment, and systematic destruction of institutions—a level of targeting not seen even during the Syrian occupation and plundering of the country's resources."

After hearing all viewpoints, which concurred on the severity of the issue but diverged on solutions, the Church steered the discussion towards what it believes is a more appropriate course of action, expressing caution regarding civil disobedience and any actions that would challenge or undermine the State.

The Church’s message emphasized the importance of pursuing change within the framework of the constitution and the law, which are crucial for ensuring justice and equality among citizens. While acknowledging that "Christians are the most affected by the parallel economy," the Church advocated for a national solution, emphasizing that the harm caused by the black economy impacts all citizens who strive to live and work within the bounds of the law and the principles that underpin the economy of any state, thereby ensuring its resilience and prosperity.

According to information obtained by Al-Modon, the Church is currently working on drafting a warning statement that will clearly identify the issues and assign responsibility. This statement, which will take the form of an appeal to underscore its importance, will outline the potential consequences of continued reliance on the black economy and its impact on Lebanon’s economic, social, and national stability.