“War changes you. It doesn’t necessarily make you a tougher person or a better person or a worse person, but it is a training on the art of dying,” Joumana Haddad tells New Lines’ Faisal Al Yafai. “I’ve always thought about that ever since I can remember. And it’s not easy to live while thinking you can die any minute.”

The author and activist explains how growing up during the Lebanese Civil War fundamentally shaped her character, encouraging her to try to change the world around her, even if that might just be in her immediate circle.

Haddad and Al Yafai discuss why she chooses to remain in Lebanon despite physical threats to her safety and a tempestuous political climate, most recently manifested in the war in Gaza that has turned southern Lebanon into a warzone. They also discuss some of the ideas that have put Haddad in the firing line in Lebanon, such as her insistence that wearing of the veil or burqa should be banned.

Produced by Finbar Anderson

For more information go to newlinesmag.com/podcast