Judicial Solutions for Political Sectarianism: Lessons from Lebanon
For some countries, political sectarianism is an enduring reality where solutions to manage sectarian tensions and to maintain domestic stability are long overdue. This Note considers Lebanon as a case study, suggesting a reformed Lebanese Constitutional Council (“LCC” or “the Council”) as a critical solution. The LCC holds potential as a judicial body to protect minority rights in a heterogeneous society where executive and legislative powers are insufficient to complete that goal. This outcome requires three major reforms of the LCC: (1) implementing mechanisms to increase judicial independence, (2) allowing the Court to engage in constitutional interpretation, and (3) mandating representation by sect on the Court. Using Lebanon as an example, this Note proposes that a constitutional court with these qualities may be able to quell tensions in any multi-sect country, including Syria and the United States.
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