This study examines the tangible impact of Lebanon’s trade agreements with Arab countries and the European Union on its economy, as well as the reasons behind their relatively poor outcomes. It also offers some policy recommendations to reap benefits of greater trade integration.

The global community was proud to announce in 2012 that the global drinking water target articulated in the Millennium Development Goals had been met five years ahead of schedule. However, the countries of the water-scarce Arab region still face the continuing challenge of providing safe and sufficient water, and improved sanitation to its growing population.

While 2010 was, for ESCWA member countries, a year of recovery from the effects of the global financial crisis, in 2011 the continued global economic recession and the popular movements in some Arab countries led to a downturn in economic growth rates in most member countries. These challenges and changes have placed added pressure on member countries to implement the commitments set out in the 2002 Monterrey Consensus of the International Conference on Financing for Development and reaffirmed in 2008.

This Annual Report summarizes the accomplishments achieved by ESCWA under its seven subprogrammes in 2008. Using a results-based approach in reviewing those accomplishments, the report provides a comprehensive perspective on the major socio-economic development issues and challenges facing the region.