The Higher Institute of Political and Administrative Sciences and the Student Affairs Office at the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik organized on October 28, 2010 a conference-debate animated by H.E. Mr. Johan Verkammen, Belgian Ambassador to Lebanon, on the relationship between Lebanon and Belgium and the management of diversity. The event was held at the Conference Hall, USEK Main Campus, in the presence of Rev. Fr. Michel Abou Tacca, Director of the Student Affairs Office, Dr. Nicole Chalhoub, Vice-President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Georges Yahchouchi, Director of the Higher Institute of Political and Administrative Sciences, besides a number of the University’s lecturers and students.

The Belgian Ambassador started his conference with a historical and geographical overview of Belgium and the various reasons which led to the linguistic, cultural and economic diversity. He then underlined the process of going from a unitary state to a federal one and the main features of federalism. Furthermore, he shed the light on the laws which protect the minorities and maintain the unity of the country.

Verkammen pointed out as well that Lebanon represents the country of diversity par excellence and highlighted therefore the similarities between the two countries: both countries were battlefields for foreign authorities; both countries have been somehow shaped by the International Community; both countries adopt the consensual democracy and the relevant measures which prevent the dominance of a community over another. Whereas the main difference consists in the regional context, since Europe enjoys a kind of stability due to the efforts deployed by the European Union, while the Middle East is suffering from security and political instability. Finally, he reiterated that the federal system has been the best tool to soothe and resolve the internal conflicts, adapt with diversity, maintain economic and social prosperity, all through adopting democratic and peaceful means.
At the end of the conference, Fr. Abou Tacca offered Verkammen the University’s medal.