Paper short abstract:

Does service delivery help to foster legitimacy, social stability and cohesion at the municipal level and beyond? This paper explores this question drawing on empirical evidence from Lebanon, against the backdrop of the refugee crisis.

Paper long abstract:

The massive influx of Syrian refugees into Lebanon has increased pressure on the provision of vital public services at municipal level and heightened inter-group tensions. International actors have increased aid to service delivery in these areas on the assumption this will help to prevent further deterioration of social stability and foster the legitimacy of both local and national level authorities in the eyes of the host population. This paper presents findings from an ongoing research project which is testing these assumptions in municipalities across Lebanon. Findings suggest that, whilst maintaining adequate service provision can help to reduce tensions and increase trust at the local level, it does not necessarily enhance the legitimacy of higher levels of government. Moreover, there are potential unintended consequences of supporting service delivery as a pathway to stability in divided societies under pressure, which can generate tensions of their own.