Qifa Nabki
Lebanon
Deconstructing the Popular Vote
Scarcely a day goes by without an opposition leader reminding the Lebanese public about which side won the popular vote in the last election. Interestingly, though, I have not yet read much analysis that attempts to explain exactly how the opposition managed to win as much as 10% more of the popular vote while still … Continue reading
Qnion Series Launched
As per popular demand, the Qnion posts now have their own tag and introductory page. Click the relevant tab on the page header (at the very top, above the cow graphic), and you’ll be able to view the entire series. I’ve been on the road for the past several days. As it turns out, hotel … Continue reading
Dialogue This
I have a drawer in my house that contains a collection of miscellaneous documents: past-due bills, soon-to-expire magazine subscription notices, important tax forms, etc. You know the drawer that I’m talking about; you probably have one yourself. It’s the “later drawer”: the drawer of important tasks postponed. As it turns out, Lebanon has its own … Continue reading
Leaving Beirut
That’s right, friends. QN is leaving the old country and returning to the New World where a dissertation and several sections of over-ambitious undergraduates await. I hope to keep the blog up so keep stopping by, won’t ya? What a difference nine months make. Back when we set up shop, the media was full of … Continue reading
Doha II … or Ta’if I?
We’re hearing more and more about the possibility of a “Doha II” agreement, a negotiated settlement to the anticipated standoff about the composition of Lebanon’s next cabinet. With Michel Aoun demanding a cabinet share proportional to his bloc’s strength in parliament, it’s clear that March 14 will not be able to assemble the cabinet simply … Continue reading
Qifa Nabki 
And the people say…