47 Seconds of Helplessness Highlights Lebanon's 47 Year-Long Energy Crises

Jul. 21, 2022

A new film by LOGI, an independent NGO that is advocating for a more transparent, efficient energy sector in Lebanon, encapsulates 47 seconds of helplessness, pain, uncertainty, desperation, loneliness and losing hope, for a much-needed cause.

Lebanon is grappling with a crippling energy crisis, which is putting hospitals and essential services under immense pressure. Outdated energy infrastructure and an over-reliance on private operators and fuel imports have impacted the people of Lebanon for the past 47 years with power cuts a daily reality.

To raise awareness of this crisis, LOGI has launched a film called "47 seconds". Created in partnership with Publicis Groupe Middle East & Turkey, it depicts the reality faced by the Lebanese people who have been deprived of their right to power. The film shows a father and a daughter over 47 seconds, shot in one take.

Tahaab Rais, Chief Strategy Officer at Publicis Groupe Middle East and Africa explained:

"We hope the film will raise awareness of the fact that people in Lebanese hospitals are dying and suffering because of the lack of electricity and power cuts, and they have been suffering for 47 years to date."

 

Set in a typical hospital in the most afflicted parts of Lebanon, "47 seconds" depicts the bleakness of the reality being faced in Lebanon today.

It directs people to this website where they can learn more about the initiative and sign a petition that demands transparent access to updates on parliamentary discussions in the electricity sector and pressures the newly elected Lebanese parliament to solve the electricity crisis. The movement is growing across Lebanon, and the world is invited to join in, sign, and show support. On-ground activations, including protests, are planned during the most affected summer months to drive action, while an outreach program is helping areas suffering the most to get electricity through innovative sources of energy like solar panels.

LOGI is an independent NGO aiming to develop a network of Lebanese oil, gas and energy experts that will lobby Lebanese policy makers and educate Lebanese citizens on the key decisions facing the oil, gas and energy sectors. Through public awareness, policy development and advocacy, LOGI is on a mission to make Lebanon’s energy sector more transparent and efficient.