In the words of Myriam Sfeir: “We must remain engaged, even when the results are not instantly visible”

Myriam Sfeir is Editor-in-Chief of Al-Raida Magazine, Executive Director of the Arab Institute for Women at the Lebanese American University and a member of the National Steering Committee for the Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund (WPHF) in Lebanon. She reflects on her journey to reshape societal structures and empower local organizations to promote gender equality.

“Change may be slow, but every step forward – no matter how small – is part of a larger, transformative movement. We are not just fighting for laws or policies, but for a profound cultural shift – a change in the way society perceives and treats women.

Photo: Myriam Sfeir

My role at the Arab Institute for Women and at Al-Raida Magazine is not just about advocacy; it’s about setting the stage for societal change. We need to foster awareness in every corner of society. Even when we face setbacks, it’s crucial to remember that the path to gender justice is long and fraught with challenges – both locally and globally. But it’s not an impossible journey.

Grass-roots organizations supported by WPHF are the ones driving the real change. They’re addressing the root causes of oppression, one community at a time. These organizations are pushing boundaries, challenging outdated norms, and creating safe spaces for vulnerable groups – especially women and LGBTQI+ communities. We understand the specific needs of the communities we’re trying to serve because we’re part of those communities. We know who should be supported, and we know what needs to change.

[Successful collaborations with the Internal Security Forces (ISF) and Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) in integrating gender-sensitive practices within these institutions have helped them foster a culture of respect and accountability. These collaborations are a great example of how lasting, institutional change can be achieved through collective action. We’ve seen these partnerships produce real results – results that protect women and ensure that their rights are respected across Lebanon.

My message to women who want to be part of this change is: Keep going. It’s easy to feel discouraged when things aren’t changing quickly, but real, meaningful transformation takes time. Do not despair. The journey is long and change is not immediate. But the work we do now is cumulative.

Every effort, every campaign, every bit of awareness we raise is laying the foundation for future victories. We must remain engaged, even when the results are not instantly visible. Every step, every challenge we face, is part of a broader movement towards justice. We should never underestimate the power of persistence and the importance of standing together as a force for change.”