Migration and political elite formation in Lebanon

This chapter examines political elite formation while addressing the limitations of focusing exclusively on the nation state. It challenges the existing literature on political elite formation, which tends to only analyse within the boundaries of the nation state. Furthermore, it utilises Bourdieu’s conceptual framework, including the notions of field, capital, and conversion of capital; the chapter seeks to better understand the process of political elite formation and reproduction across international borders. The chapter also discusses the potential influence that migration may have on the formation and consolidation of political elites in Lebanon, including positions such as prime minister, ministers, members of parliament, mayors, and other politically significant figures. Finally, the chapter underscores the need for further research on the role of migrants living abroad in political elite formation and reproduction, particularly through their engagement in absentee voting and other forms of political contributions.