Displacement, returns and uncertainty take a heavy toll on Lebanon: Sweden’s support to Lebanon is vital in times like these
Displacement, returns and uncertainty take a heavy toll on Lebanon: Sweden’s support to Lebanon is vital in times like these
Displaced residents are returning to their home communities in the southern Lebanon following announcements of ceasefire efforts involving Israel, Lebanon, Iran and the United States, as well as a regional de-escalation agreement. Despite the ceasefire agreement, there are still ongoing security concerns and widespread destruction along the way. UNHCR is supporting returnees prior to and during their journey, as well as upon arrival, with cash assistance, transportation, documentation, baggage, food, and the cost of temporary accommodation.
Despite a ceasefire agreement, the current situation in Lebanon continues to be shaken by uncertainty, restrictions and violations. At the end of August, it was reported that around 334,300 people remain internally displaced in connection with the previous attacks in southern Lebanon.
At the same time as the situation remains uncertain in Lebanon, it was reported that by the end of August, approximately 823,000 internally displaced people, mainly Lebanese and Syrian people, had voluntarily returned to their home communities. However, the journey home is far from safe and free from obstacles. Following the Israeli airstrikes that took place during the spring, extensive damage to roads and civilian infrastructure makes the journey home increasingly difficult and unsafe.
Once returnees arrive home, another concern awaits them, namely destroyed infrastructure, limited access to basic services, unexploded ordnance, limited livelihood opportunities, and homes left in ruins and dust. The housing issue in particular is critical and creates distress for returnees. Concerns often revolve around whether their homes are still standing or remain in a recognizable condition, particularly homes located in high-risk areas.
In the end of May, the city of Tyre, in southern Lebanon, Israeli airstrikes heavily destroyed buildings, infrastructure and businesses. Following the airstrikes, UNHCR supported vulnerable people by repairing collective shelters and installing privacy partitions which give people a safe place to live in privacy and dignity.
For others whose homes remain, increasing rents in both Lebanon and Syria means a higher risk for eviction. With economic instability and housing difficulties, this has contributed to distress, anxiety, and high levels of child labor among refugees, returnees, and internally displaced people. In times of uncertainty, Sweden’s support to Lebanon lays the foundation for meeting vulnerable people’s immediate needs with humanitarian support.
To ensure that returnees’ journey home takes place under safe and dignified conditions, UNHCR has provided them with cash assistance. Cash assistance is and has been a fundamental part of providing support to returnees, helping people cover their most basic needs.
Even though some people have started to return to their home communities, this is not an option for everyone due to the destruction caused by previous Israeli attacks. Homes, roads, and essential services have not been restored to their previous extent, leaving many people displaced within Lebanon. As a result, internally displaced people continue to live in fragile conditions, including in collective shelters.
To support internally displaced people, UNHCR has distributed core relief items including shelters that are resistant to harsh weather conditions, mattresses, blankets, and cash assistance. UNHCR has also helped refugees submit applications for work permits, to give them the opportunity to legally work in Lebanon.
However, the current critical situation puts significant pressure on already limited resources, making it difficult to respond to all people’s needs. As a result, people risk being left without the most basic necessities, children being forced to work, and continued displacement, which is taking a particularly heavy toll on women and children.
In times like these, Sweden’s support to UNHCR becomes essential in enabling support for people in Lebanon with life-saving humanitarian assistance.
