In this talk Paula will discuss:

- The Nature of Corruption in Lebanon

- Concrete Examples of Corruption

- The Absence of Accountability

- The Consequences of Corruption

- Solutions and Responsibilities

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Speaker Bio

Paula Yacoubian is a Lebanese lawmaker, reformist activist, and former journalist of Armenian descent. A leading voice for accountability and women’s empowerment, she has become one of the most prominent independent figures in Lebanese politics.

Before her election to parliament, Yacoubian built a media career as one of Lebanon’s most recognizable television journalists, known for her sharp political interviews and fearless critique of corruption. Her influence extended across Lebanese and pan-Arab networks, where she played a key role in shaping public debate and encouraging civic awareness.

In recognition of her commitment to diversity and equality, she was appointed by the World Bank Group to its External Advisory Panel for Diversity and Inclusion.

Elected to parliament in 2018 to represent Beirut, and re-elected in 2022, Yacoubian has been at the forefront of legislative reform. She has introduced and supported key laws aimed at combating sexual harassment, protecting whistleblowers, ensuring transparency in the public sector, advancing environmental protection, and promoting gender equality. Her advocacy extends to electoral reform and the inclusion of women in decision-making positions through the establishment of a women’s quota.

A passionate environmentalist, she has also been a vocal opponent of waste mismanagement and pollution-causing projects, championing sustainable alternatives and accountability in public works.

Her accomplishments have been recognized internationally. In 2017, she was awarded the “Officier de l’Ordre de la Couronne” (Officer of the Order of the Crown) by King Philippe I of Belgium, honoring her contributions to media, public service, and social progress.

Brief

PAULA YACOUBIAN

(Born Paulette Sirakan Yaghobian on April 4, 1976)

• Paula is a Lebanese political activist and lawmaker of Armenian descent.

• She has achieved prominence as a TV personality, making significant contributions to various Lebanese and pan-Arab international television stations.

• Paula's expertise led her to be selected as one of the experts on the World Bank Group's External Advisory Panel for Diversity and Inclusion.

• As a dedicated humanist social activist, Paula passionately advocates for the less privileged through her leadership of "Dafa Campaign," an NGO that has assisted over 250,000 impoverished families.

• She serves as a member of the Lebanese Parliament, representing the Beirut I District. She was first elected in May 2018 and re-elected for a second term in May 2022.

• Paula actively supports environmental protection programs, organizing and participating in events such as sea-diving and beach clean-up campaigns.

• She fiercely opposes government decisions that could harm the environment, including issues related to waste collection, pollution, and the construction of trash incinerators.

• In collaboration with "Tahalof Watani" and deputies from the October 17 revolution, they formed an opposition bloc to combat pervasive corruption and challenge deals that prioritize the interests of the powerful.

• She has introduced numerous reform laws aimed at safeguarding citizen concerns and strengthening institutions.

• Paula has been proactive in questioning and interrogating the government, while also making several appeals before the Constitutional Council.

• She has received numerous prestigious awards, including the "Officier De L'Ordre de la Couronne" (Officer of the Order of the Crown) bestowed upon her by King Philippe I of Belgium in August 2017.

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Tickets are free, but booking is a must!

Places are limited, book here: https://tinyurl.com/kas-ihl

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This session will be online from the comfort of your home.

This session is part of the Free Online Series Program done by I Have Learned Academy in collaboration with KAS: "Thoughts & Talks for a Better Lebanon"