Press Rleases 2009

Judicial Training Institute in Ashrafieh Begins $1.35 million, U.S.-funded Upgrade

October 13, 2009

On October 13, the Judicial Training Institute in Ashrafieh, which trains Lebanon’s current and future judges, dedicated a $1.25 million renovation project funded by the U.S. government.  When completed, the Institute will move from the one-room facility it currently occupies at the Ministry of Justice to a renovated five-floor facility designed to meet the specific needs of Lebanon’s judicial trainees. 

Attending the dedication of the renovation project, U. S. Agency for International Development (USAID)/Lebanon Mission Director Denise A. Herbol emphasized the U.S. government’s committed support for Lebanon’s independent judiciary, noting that “a strong, independent, transparent judicial system – accessible to the people – is one of the most essential institutions in a democracy.  Renovating the Institute will provide Lebanon’s judges a dedicated facility to focus on their continuing professional development and administering justice for the sake of the Lebanese people.”

Work on the facility is scheduled to be completed in early 2010 and will include the installation of plumbing services and electricity, and outfitting the facility with furniture and equipment.   Implemented by the National Center for State Courts (NCSC), this project is part of the $6.6 million, USAID-funded “Strengthening Judicial Independence and Citizen Access to Justice Program.”