From 19 to 21 November 2025, the EU Special Representative for Human Rights, Kajsa Ollongren, conducted an official visit to Lebanon to advance dialogue on human rights, the rule of law, and accountability. She commended the progress achieved under the current government and shared commitments to human rights, including through strong cooperation with the European Union in multilateral fora.

A key part of the mission was a visit to Nabatieh, in southern Lebanon, where the EUSR heard first-hand accounts of the impact of ongoing hostilities, including displacement and damage to civilian infrastructure. She raised serious concern over violations of international humanitarian law, and called on all actors to respect the ceasefire.

During her visit, the EUSR met with President Aoun, Speaker Berri, Prime Minister Salam, Foreign Minister Raggi, Justice Minister Nassar, Social Affairs Minister Sayed and Army Chief Haykal. The EUSR also met with other senior state officials, members of Parliament, civil society, including victims and survivors of the Beirut Port explosion, and UN organisations.

In these meetings, the EUSR and her interlocutors exchanged views on a wide range of issues, including civic space, freedom of expression, detention conditions, women’s rights, gender equality, economic and social rights, the situation in Palestinian camps, the situation of displaced persons, including Syrian refugees, and the rights of migrant workers. She welcomed initial progress on strengthening the independence of the judiciary and underlined the importance of comprehensive judicial reforms in line with international standards. The EUSR further emphasized the importance of inclusive decision-making processes and effective service provision to a population that has endured compounding crises in recent years.

The EUSR emphasized the centrality of accountability. She stressed that justice for the Beirut Port explosion remains a defining test of the authorities’ commitment to the rule of law, justice and accountability, and called for renewed efforts to ensure that accountability processes can proceed free from interference. Victims and survivors deserve truth, justice and redress.