After years of anticipation, Lebanon has taken a bold and much-needed step toward safeguarding its natural treasures. On June 22, 2025, the Lebanese government issued Decree No. 519, officially appointing 106 new forest, hunting, and fisheries guards to the Ministry of Agriculture’s permanent staff. This move is seen as a critical turning point in the country’s ongoing efforts to protect its forests, biodiversity, and marine resources from mounting environmental threats.
For decades, Lebanon’s forests, rugged mountains, and pristine coastline have faced escalating challenges — from wildfires and illegal logging to overfishing and the devastating consequences of climate change. Experts and environmental activists have repeatedly called for stronger enforcement and a more substantial on-the-ground presence to combat these issues.
A Step Toward Hope
“This is not just an administrative decree; it is a declaration of our commitment to future generations,” declared Minister of Agriculture Dr. Nizar Hani during a press conference announcing the appointments. He expressed gratitude to the President of the Republic, the Prime Minister, and the Minister of Finance for their unwavering support in making this long-awaited decree a reality.
Dr. Hani emphasized that bolstering the Ministry’s environmental protection teams is a central pillar of Lebanon’s broader strategy to defend its ecological heritage. With the new appointments, Lebanon edges closer to achieving the optimal number of 386 guards and inspectors deemed necessary for effective coverage of its forests, coastal areas, and environmentally sensitive zones.
More Than Just Numbers
Currently, Lebanon has only 120 active guards — a number critics have long argued is insufficient to patrol the vast and often inaccessible natural areas across the country. The addition of 106 new recruits marks the beginning of a significant expansion, with plans already in place to launch new recruitment drives to fill the remaining vacancies.
But numbers alone won’t suffice. The Ministry is also introducing a comprehensive, month-long training program for the new guards. The curriculum covers modern protection techniques, legal frameworks, and operational procedures for monitoring forests and marine environments. In a nod to technological innovation, guards will also be equipped with state-of-the-art tools, including drones for aerial surveillance, wireless communication devices, and standardized uniforms.
Facing Urgent Challenges
The timing of this initiative couldn’t be more critical. Lebanon’s forests, often referred to as the “lungs of the nation,” have suffered from rampant wildfires exacerbated by rising temperatures and drought. Meanwhile, marine ecosystems face overfishing and pollution, threatening the livelihoods of coastal communities and the country’s rich biodiversity.
“This is a fight for survival — for our forests, our waters, and ultimately, our communities,” said Dr. Hani, underscoring the government’s resolve to not only protect but also rehabilitate natural areas that have been neglected for far too long.
Looking Ahead
The Ministry’s ambitious plan reflects a renewed sense of environmental responsibility that many hope will mark a lasting shift in Lebanon’s approach to conservation. As the newly appointed guards prepare to take their posts, citizens and environmental advocates alike watch with cautious optimism, hoping that these guardians will become symbols of resilience and protectors of Lebanon’s most precious natural resources.
