Lebanon is divided into 8 governates (muhafazat), which constitute the country's primary administrative divisions. As the first level of territorial organization above the district level, governates serve as intermediate units between the central government and local authorities. Each governate is headed by a governor (muhafiz) appointed by the Council of Ministers, who acts as the representative of the central government within that territory. Governates oversee the implementation of national policies, coordinate public services, and maintain administrative oversight of districts within their jurisdiction. They handle matters related to public order, civil registration, and the delivery of government services to citizens. The governate system reflects Lebanon's centralized administrative structure, where local governance operates under the direct supervision of Beirut-based ministries and agencies.