Generating income for disadvantaged groups in Lebanon

Context

Lebanon is in the midst of a structural economic and financial crisis. More than three-quarters of the population live in poverty. Given the duration and extent of the crisis, poorer sections of the population, in particular, have exhausted all coping strategies.

At the same time, Lebanon has taken in a large number of refugees due to the crisis in Syria. The competition for declining public services and jobs is leading to increasing tension between refugees and members of the host communities.

As a result of the difficult economic situation, budgets for public infrastructure and support services for vulnerable households are decreasing sharply. Young adults and women as well as people with disabilities have been especially affected.

Objective

The economic situation for refugees and host-community residents has improved and they are increasingly able to cope with the crisis.

Approach

The project creates temporary employment work opportunities (cash for work) for vulnerable households in North Lebanon and Akkar. Participants have 40 days of work, for which they receive an income. Workers improve the local infrastructure, for example by making public areas look more attractive. Some of them also prepare meals for vulnerable households in community kitchens.

The measures are supported by local planning and steering committees, whose members include representatives from local government, civil society organisations and the population. The project has a special focus on the needs of women and people with disabilities. By making a positive contribution to improving their communities, cash for work participants are also boosting their own self-confidence and mental health.

Last update: August 2023