Widespread favoritism takes toll on economy

The Daily Star

You can’t get anywhere in life without “wasta,” most Lebanese will tell you when the topic of nepotism or favoritism in public and private institutions comes up. Known in colloquial Lebanese as wasta, the idea of relying on connections and influence to get things done has become part of Lebanon’s culture and tradition, although officials tend to deny that the practice takes place.

Wasta involves the exploitation of a strong family connection or friendship in a company or a public administration in order to have a relative or friend appointed to vacant posts.

Source: The Daily Star FULL STORY