CEDRE Conference: An Analysis

The CEDRE (Cedar Conference for Economic Development and Reform with Enterprises) was not held in 2005 but rather on April 6, 2018, in Paris. However, the incorrect date of March 14, 2005, coincides with another pivotal event related to Lebanon—the establishment of the “March 14 Alliance.”

Context of the March 14 Alliance

Following the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafic Hariri on February 14, 2005, Lebanon experienced widespread political unrest and calls for change. The massive protests that ensued became known as the Cedar Revolution, named after Lebanon’s national symbol, the cedar tree. These protests were primarily aimed at ending Syria’s military presence in Lebanon, which had lasted since the Lebanese Civil War.

Formation of the March 14 Alliance

March 14, 2005, marks a significant day in Lebanese political history due to the formation of the March 14 Alliance—a coalition of political parties and movements opposed to Syrian influence and demanding Syrian withdrawal from Lebanon. This movement was a direct response to Hariri’s assassination and was crucial in mobilizing the Lebanese population against foreign interference.

Key Players

• Future Movement: Led by Saad Hariri, Rafic Hariri’s son, and an influential Sunni political figure.
• Progressive Socialist Party: Headed by Druze leader Walid Jumblatt.
• Lebanese Forces: A prominent Christian political party led by Samir Geagea.
• Kataeb Party (Phalange): Another influential Christian political party.

Outcomes and Aftermath

• Syrian Withdrawal: The March 14 movement significantly contributed to Syria withdrawing its troops from Lebanon, officially completed by the end of April 2005.
• Political Change: The alliance led to shifts in Lebanon’s political landscape, with the government becoming more aligned with Western and pro-democracy influences.
• Impact on Lebanese Politics: The movement set the stage for future political alliances and played a crucial role in shaping contemporary Lebanese political dynamics.

The events of March 14, 2005, underline the complex interplay of local and international politics in Lebanon and represent a moment of significant nationalist sentiment against foreign intervention in the country’s affairs.