Dr. Hussein Sharara

Beirut is a city of contrasts. It is a thriving metropolis with a rich history and culture, but it is also a city that is plagued by poverty and inequality. One of the most visible manifestations of this inequality is the Lack of balanced development and the government neglect of slums.

Slums are informal settlements that are typically characterized by substandard housing, poor sanitation, and lack of access to basic services. They are often home to the poorest and most marginalized members of society. In Beirut, slums are concentrated in the city's periphery, especially in the southern and eastern suburbs and the waterfront in the southwest of the city, and they are often home to poor citizens, refugees and migrants.

The government neglect of slums has a number of negative consequences. First, it contributes to the deterioration of urban planning. Slums are often located in areas that are prone to flooding, and other natural disasters. The government neglect of these areas makes them more vulnerable to these hazards.

Second, the government neglect of slums contributes to the spread of disease. Slums often have poor sanitation, which can lead to the spread of diseases.

Third, the government neglect of slums contributes to crime and violence. Slums are often characterized by high crime rates, violation of laws and non-compliance with regulations. This is due to a number of factors, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of education. The negligence of these areas makes it difficult to address the root causes of crime and violence, thus leads to severe urban crises.

The government must take steps to address this problem and improve the lives of the people who live in slums, such as:

• Invest in infrastructure: such as roads, sewers, and schools. This will improve the quality of life for residents and make the areas safer.
• Provide social services: such as job training, healthcare, and childcare. This will help residents to improve their lives and become more self-sufficient.
• Engage with the community: The government can engage with the community in slums and listen to their needs. This will help to ensure that the government's interventions are effective and that they meet the needs of the people who live in slums.

By taking these steps, the government can address the problem of slums and improve the lives of the people who live in them, and can promote the Balanced Development.