Alumni Blog

Tracing his path from Collège Saint Joseph – Antoura to the Lebanese public life, Ziyad Baroud has established a career defined by legal expertise, reform-minded leadership, and commitment to justice and civil liberties.

Early Life & Education

Born in Jeita in 1970, Baroud completed his schooling at Antoura and went on to study law at Saint Joseph University in Beirut. With a sharp legal mind and deep commitment to public service, he specialized in human rights, electoral reform, and decentralization, fields that would later define his career.

Public Service & Reform

Ziyad Baroud served as Lebanon’s Minister of Interior and Municipalities from 2008 to 2011, earning praise across political lines for his professionalism, integrity, and push for institutional reform. During his tenure, he worked tirelessly to modernize electoral law, improve civil registry systems, and promote transparent governance. He remains a strong advocate for civil rights, notably championing the removal of religious affiliation from identity cards and empowering local municipalities.

Legal Advocacy & Civil Society

In addition to his governmental role, Baroud has long been involved with NGOs and international institutions, contributing to legal reform, electoral observation, and decentralization efforts in Lebanon and abroad. He has also served as a legal advisor and academic, helping shape a more just and democratic future for the country.