Beirut, 19 July 2024 – Committed to enhancing local governance, transparency, and efficiency through innovative technological solutions, the European Union, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), in partnership with the Ministry of Interior and Municipalities (MoIM) and the Directorate General of Local Administrations and Councils (DGLAC) launched the newly developed DGLAC web portal and automated call center.

These initiatives mark a significant milestone in improving service delivery and transparency at DGLAC, and 
underscore a commitment to empower more than 1,000 municipalities and 60 unions of municipalities, and communities.

DGLAC Web Portal

The launch of the DGLAC web portal (https://www.dglac.gov.lb) represents a vital advancement in DGLAC’s efforts to enhance information accessibility, increase transparency and public engagement, and improve service delivery. Designed to be user-friendly in Arabic and English, the portal will serve as a central hub for municipalities, unions of municipalities, mukhtars and the general public for streamlining administrative processes, including accessing consistent and reliable information, legal documents, and updates. This digital gateway aims to strengthen DGLAC’s outreach and operational efficiency, aligning with its mission to significantly improve local governance, making it more efficient, transparent, and citizen centric.

DGLAC Automated Call Center

In conjunction with the web portal, DGLAC has introduced an automated call center, that can be accessed on the following number 01-610140, leveraging WhatsApp technology. This innovative solution facilitates seamless and efficient communication between DGLAC and local authorities. It allows for swift handling of inquiries and complaints, enhancing responsiveness, transparency, and accountability in service delivery. The platform includes features such as municipal application management, complaints tracking, and analytics, designed to streamline operations and improve municipal/citizens’ experience.

"The launch of the DGLAC web portal and automated call center demonstrates the EU’s commitment to supporting Lebanon’s local governance. These tools will empower municipalities and unions of municipalities to deliver better services, fostering inclusive development," said Stefano Panighetti, Programme Manager for Local Development, Delegation of the European Union to Lebanon.

“UNDP is proud of the partnership leading to development of innovative digital solutions for improved local governance and improved accessibility and responsiveness of public service delivery. The DGLAC web portal and automated call center tools mark a significant step towards enhancing trust in public institutions, fostering innovation, and promoting local governance transparency”. said Blerta Aliko, UNDP Lebanon Resident Representative," said Blerta Aliko, UNDP Lebanon Resident Representative.

"The introduction of the DGLAC automated call center underlines our commitment to leveraging technology for effective urban management. This initiative will contribute to enhanced communication between DGLAC and local authorities, with a view to promoting sustainable urban development and resilience," said Taina Christiansen, Head of UN-Habitat Lebanon.

These initiatives signify a determined effort by the EU and UN to modernize local governance structures in Lebanon, supporting sustainable development and community resilience.

END

For more information please contact: 
Aline Kiwan, MERP Communications Specialist, at aline.kiwan@un.org, mobile 03-294070

Note to editors

About the Municipal Empowerment and Resilience Project (MERP)
MERP is a joint project by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat). The Project is being implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Interior and Municipalities (MoIM) and funded by the European Union (EU). The project aims to strengthen the long-term resilience of subnational authorities in Lebanon as well as host communities and displaced persons affected by the Syrian crisis. Learn more about MERP at UNDP website and UN-Habitat website.

About the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat)
UN-Habitat works in over 90 countries supporting people in cities and human settlements for a better urban future. Working with governments and local partners, its high impact projects combine world-class expertise and local knowledge to deliver timely and targeted solutions. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development includes a dedicated Goal on cities, SDG 11 – to make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.

Learn more at www.unhabitat.org/lebanon or follow us on Twitter at @UNHabitatLB, on Facebook at UN-Habitat Lebanon and on Instagram at UNHabitatLB

About the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet.

Learn more at www.lb.undp.org or follow on Twitter at @UNDP_Lebanon, on Facebook at UNDP Lebanon and on Instagram at UNDP_Lebanon

About the European Union (EU)
The European Union is an economic and political union of 27 European countries. It is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to vulnerable groups. It acts globally to promote sustainable development of societies, environment and economies, so that everyone can benefit.
The European Union Delegation to Lebanon represents the European Union as a whole and speaks on behalf of its 27 Member States. The Delegation is responsible for promoting EU policy and for coordinating with Lebanon on political, economic, developmental and social issues.

Follow the Delegation’s website and social media accounts:
@EUinLebanon on X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
@EUAmbLebanon on X.