13/09/2024
The European Union has supported through the Community Policing project the renovation and opening of four police stations in Lebanon
Following the inauguration of the renovated police stations in Gemmayzeh and Dekwaneh, this week saw the inauguration of police stations in Tripoli and New Saida. This work has been carried out with the support of the European Community Policing Project, an initiative aimed at improving the effectiveness and community engagement of the Internal Security Forces (ISF) in Lebanon. The project has reached an important milestone with the completion of all major renovation works required at the four police stations.
Later this September, these renovated premises will be handed over to the Internal Security Forces, marking a crucial moment in the EU’s mission to support Lebanon in modernising and improving the conditions of the police stations to better serve its population.
The renovations to these police facilities will be testament to the project’s commitment to creating safer, more functional and welcoming environments for both the personnel of the FSI and the communities they serve. These police stations, located in key urban centres, have undergone comprehensive renovations to address structural issues, modernise facilities and introduce spaces designed to encourage better interaction between police officers and citizens.
In Tripoli, the former Palace of Justice has been transformed and renovated to house, in addition to the police station that was previously located there, three other police stations that were distributed in other parts of the city. The renovations have included the installation of advanced security systems, the refurbishment of public reception areas and the installation of solar photovoltaic panels to ensure long-term sustainable energy. This will enable the ISF to operate four police stations with different divisions serving the population. The upgrade of the police station infrastructure is expected to significantly improve the efficiency of police operations in Tripoli, contributing to greater public confidence and security.
In New Saida, works have included the expansion of public reception areas, the installation of new communication and surveillance systems and the creation of facilities that support the ISF’s efforts to engage with local communities on issues such as crime prevention, public safety and community development.
All of these renovations are part of a broader effort under the Community Policing project to improve the infrastructure and capabilities of ISF police stations across Lebanon. Funded by the European Union and implemented in cooperation between FIIAPP and CIVIPOL, the project aims to strengthen the relationship between the police and the public by creating environments that are more welcoming, accessible and responsive to the needs of local communities.
By upgrading police stations and introducing new facilities designed to facilitate community participation, the project aims to empower the ISF to play a more proactive role in promoting public safety and addressing public concerns. The upgraded police stations are not merely physical spaces, but represent a new approach to policing that prioritises dialogue, transparency and cooperation between law enforcement and the public.