In this episode of Development Matters, we delve into the challenges faced by Lebanon's municipalities amidst ongoing political, economic, and security crises. With basic services like electricity, clean water, and waste management becoming luxuries, the bond between local governments and their communities is strained. Yet, local authorities retain a unique trust from their communities, a trust that has been waning since the financial crisis began in 2019. We explore the critical role of communication in maintaining and strengthening this trust. Join us as Roula El Bayeh (Secretary General of Akkar Governorate) , Jean Fakhry (Head of Union of Municipalities in Deir El Ahmar),  and Toni Maalouf (Senior Communication Officer at UNDP) discuss the indispensable role of effective communication in bridging gaps between municipalities and the diverse communities they serve during these turbulent times.