UNHCR welcomes funding from the Government of Italy to provide critical assistance to vulnerable families in Lebanon

BEIRUT, Lebanon 17 June (UNHCR) – The Italian Embassy in Lebanon announced today a contribution of €3,000,000 to UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency reinforcing Italy’s longstanding commitment to supporting vulnerable communities in Lebanon.

This timely and generous contribution comes amid critical funding reductions to UNHCR’s operation in Lebanon despite rapidly evolving humanitarian needs, and will enable UNHCR to strengthen its humanitarian response, focusing on the most urgent protection needs of communities across the country.

“The steadfast support of the Government of Italy is especially vital at this time, as humanitarian needs continue to rise—particularly among newly arrived refugee families in northern Lebanon and the Bekaa region. This contribution is all the more welcome given the large and swift downturn in funding in 2025”, said Ivo Freijsen, UNHCR Representative in Lebanon.

Lebanon remains the country hosting the highest number of refugees per capita in the world, with government estimates indicating 1.4 million Syrian refugees, alongside more than 11,200 asylum-seekers and refugees of other nationalities are currently in Lebanon.

“This contribution underscores Italy's unwavering commitment to supporting vulnerable communities in Lebanon. This funding is especially crucial as it will enable UNHCR to bolster its humanitarian response and address the most urgent protection needs across the country. Italy remains dedicated to fostering stability and well-being in Lebanon, a nation that continues to host the highest number of refugees per capita globally”, said H.E. Fabrizio Marcelli, Ambassador of Italy to Lebanon.

“With this contribution, UNHCR and its partners will be able to identify and assist the most vulnerable individuals with protection services and improve access to adequate shelter for families most in need”, said Alessandra Piermattei, Head of the Beirut office of the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation – AICS.

The Government of Italy has been a longstanding and reliable donor to UNHCR. Its sustained support has been instrumental in ensuring the protection and well-being of refugees and in promoting resilience within host communities across Lebanon.

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