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Press Release
15 October 2024
ILO to improve living conditions for displaced people and provide jobs for local communities
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Press Release
15 October 2024
Urgent humanitarian response needed amidst escalating conflict in Lebanon – WFP and UNICEF
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Press Release
13 October 2024
UN Interim Force in Lebanon "UNIFIL" Statement - Ramyah Incidents
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Latest
The Sustainable Development Goals in Lebanon
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Lebanon:
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25 June 2024
We had no idea”- Preventing and reducing statelessness in Lebanon
Marita’s father was a day labourer in Beirut; he could not afford to lose a day’s work to complete the paperwork with the authorities in Baalbeck. “I was so scared”, says Marita’s mother. “I didn’t know what to do. It haunted me to think my daughter wouldn’t have an ID card – that she wouldn’t be able to attend school or see a doctor.” The Ministry of Social Affairs referred the case to UNHCR’s partner, Frontiers Rights. Frontiers Rights took on the case and, with UNHCR’s support, provided free legal aid and represented the family in court. The case ultimately succeeded. Today, Marita is six years old. She is registered as a Lebanese citizen, and is no longer stateless. Marita is one of the 1,500 stateless people of Lebanese origin who, with UNHCR support, have been able to remedy their lack of nationality or gain access to documentation. She is one of around 7,000 girls and boys who have been helped in this way. “Everybody told me the legal process would be very complicated”, says Marita’s mother. “I was so frightened by the financial implications, which were all the more worrying in the midst of this financial crisis. Then Frontiers came along. They truly accompanied me every step of the way. They comforted me, they explained all the details to me. ""The entire family was happy when Marita was finally registered. Saying ‘thank you’ doesn’t even begin to express our gratitude.”
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24 July 2024
Whey – converting a dairy by-product into nutritious and affordable food
In Lebanon, the dairy industry produces more than 200,000 tons of whey each year. Only a small fraction of it is put to further use. Far more is wasted. When it is discharged into nature, whey causes severe environmental problems. Treating it in wastewater plants brings additional costs for companies. Under the European Union-funded SwitchMed programme, UNIDO has been working closely with industrial partners to develop innovative, nutritious whey-based food and beverage products customized to the needs of Lebanese dairy companies, particularly SMEs. The project has resulted in the development of three new whey-based products: whey-based fruit juices, whey-based ayran, and whey-based spreadable cheese. The project began with two companies participating. Since then, six more companies from Lebanon and the region have signed up to the project, keen to take advantage of the benefits of using whey in their products.One of the companies involved in the project is Skaff Dairy Farm. “We are a small dairy company”, its manager says, “so it was difficult for us to invest in the advanced technology needed to dry and concentrate whey. The technical support we received under the UNIDO project led us to develop an innovative approach in formulating our whey-based spreadable cheese. We were delighted with the results. Our spreadable cheese is not only tasty: it is also healthier than other products, many of which are made using non-dairy ingredients such as vegetable oils. We look forward to developing this project further and diversifying our product lines.”
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14 June 2024
Combating water scarcity with unconventional water sources
The issue of water scarcity in Zahle had become more and more acute. It is now disrupting the daily routines of residents, particularly for larger families.“Water shortages are making it hard for families to manage their day-to-day activities”, says Eddie. “I am worried for my nieces and nephews. When I was a child, there was plenty of water. Nowadays, there is far less. Farmers even need to take turns to irrigate their land.”To help families like Eddie’s deal with water scarcity, UN-Habitat, together with partners including the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia and the United Nations Children’s Fund in Lebanon (UNICEF), has been promoting the use of unconventional water sources and supporting sustainable water management.With funding from the Adaptation Fund, UN-Habitat has been helping to make households and farmers more resilient to water scarcity by promoting the incorporation of climate change considerations into urban planning at both district and municipal levels. “Water scarcity has been a reminder for me to live responsibly on Earth for the sake of the children who surround me, my nieces and nephews”, says Eddie. “I want them to be able to stay in Zahle and enjoy its rich resources.”Through capacity-building activities and practical interventions, UN-Habitat has also been promoting the reuse of treated wastewater from the Zahle wastewater treatment plant for irrigation. It has provided 10 educational institutions with equipment for collecting and reusing rainwater, and promoted the use of permaculture techniques to increase the resilience of agricultural practices.
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15 May 2024
The Productive Sectors Development Programme (PSDP) Makes a Positive Impact in Lebanon
The Productive Sectors Development Programme (PSDP), which is generously funded by the Government of Canada and implemented by six UN agencies (UNIDO, FAO, UNDP, ILO, UNWOMEN, UNICEF), has aimed for gender-responsive job creation and economic growth with a particular focus on empowering women and youth in disadvantaged areas. Fostering growth through a comprehensive approach The programme has recognized the multifaceted challenges faced by women in the agriculture and agri-food sectors, including limited market access, inadequate infrastructure and skills shortages. To address these issues, the PSDP has adopted a comprehensive approach, working at three levels:At the macro level, the PSDP conducted legislative and policy reviews as well as a gender analysis, with extensive dialogue and consultations with national and international partners. At the meso level, the PSDP has collaborated with the government and the private sector to enhance market access for MSMEs in agro-food. This has involved capacity building, export promotion and networking opportunities.At the micro level, the PSDP has enhanced the competitiveness of value chains like fruits, vegetables, nuts and pulses in northern Lebanon. This has included technological advancements, skills development, business support, market access, amongst others. Celebrating the impact of the PSDP in LebanonRony Gedeon, Partnerships and Development Finance Officer, Resident Coordinator Office (RCO) – Lebanon, said: "The PSDP, funded by the Government of Canada through the Lebanon Recovery Fund (LRF), marks the start of a new approach to development in Lebanon that revolves around partnerships for productive sectors development. The program brought together the UN, donor partners, Lebanese Government, private sector, local partners and most importantly beneficiaries around common objectives and ambitions to help Lebanon’s economic recovery." Alexandra Santillana, First Secretary, Development at the Embassy of Canada in Lebanon, also spoke about the positive impact of the program: “Furthermore, during crises, the PSDP has supported over 2,000 vulnerable individuals and around 300 businesses operating in the agriculture and agri-food sectors by enhancing a favorable business environment. Consequently, this gave them exposure to international markets and empowered businesses, farmers, and cooperatives to thrive and expand.”Santillana added that the PSDP exemplifies Canada’s commitments to supporting Lebanon's productive sectors, fostering economic prosperity, especially for vulnerable women. Moreover, investing in people, specifically women in rural areas, can chart a course toward a more prosperous and resilient future for all.Kawthar Alawa, Owner of ‘Equilibre’, was able to showcase a good resilience in sustaining her business despite the economic crisis that marked business opportunities in Tripoli. She received a recognition award at the closing ceremony of PSDP for her outstanding dedication and commitment. The legacy of the PSDP in LebanonAfter years of dedicated efforts, the PSDP celebrated its achievements with a closing ceremony on April 16 at the UN House. The event acknowledged the successful results and partnerships forged during the programme's tenure, with a booth showcasing PSDP beneficiaries' products and progress at HORECA Lebanon, a hospitality and foodservice trade fair, which attracted almost 20,000 visitors.
Job creation and moreThe PSDP has yielded significant results, with over 2,000 jobs created and sustained: the majority held by women. Additionally, the programme has provided support to over 2,000 vulnerable individuals, including training in various aspects of agriculture and business leadership. Moreover, hundreds of MSMEs and farmers have received direct assistance, paving the way for sustainable economic growth and local development.As the PSDP concludes this chapter, it demonstrated important lessons of empowerment, transformation, and inclusive growth. Through collaborative efforts and unwavering dedication, the PSDP is one chapter of a larger vision for supporting the development of productive sectors in Lebanon. Disclaimer: This story was produced and published by the Hospitality News Middle East, in coordination with the UN Resident Coordinator Office, as part of its strategic partnership in the 2024 HORECA exhibition to showcase the results of the UN Productive Sectors Development Program (PSDP).
Job creation and moreThe PSDP has yielded significant results, with over 2,000 jobs created and sustained: the majority held by women. Additionally, the programme has provided support to over 2,000 vulnerable individuals, including training in various aspects of agriculture and business leadership. Moreover, hundreds of MSMEs and farmers have received direct assistance, paving the way for sustainable economic growth and local development.As the PSDP concludes this chapter, it demonstrated important lessons of empowerment, transformation, and inclusive growth. Through collaborative efforts and unwavering dedication, the PSDP is one chapter of a larger vision for supporting the development of productive sectors in Lebanon. Disclaimer: This story was produced and published by the Hospitality News Middle East, in coordination with the UN Resident Coordinator Office, as part of its strategic partnership in the 2024 HORECA exhibition to showcase the results of the UN Productive Sectors Development Program (PSDP).
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15 February 2024
Young Diplomats in the Making: Lebanese Students Dive into the UN World
On February 6, 2024, the UN-House in Beirut opened its doors to a group of Grade 10 students from Collège des Saints-Cœurs Kfarhbab (SSCC-Kfarhbab), all participants in the Model United Nations (MUN) program. The visit offered them a unique peek into the intricate universe of international diplomacy, negotiations, and conflict resolution.
Meet-and-Greet Session with High UN Official
The day's highlight was the students' interaction with the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Lebanon, Imran Riza. Organized by the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office (RCO) in Lebanon and the United Nations Information Centre in Beirut (UNIC Beirut), this meet-and-greet session served as a deep dive into the complexities of national and regional challenges as well as the essential skills for successful and effective UN leadership.
In his discussion with the young future diplomats, Riza emphasized the UN's commitment to engaging and empowering youth, sharing insights on various UN youth programs led by UN entities in Lebanon that help identify and nurture young leaders.
“Investing in youth is investing in the future,” he stressed.
When asked about the challenges facing the UN amid the spread of disinformation and anti-refugee sentiments, Riza emphasized the critical role of youth in combating hate speech, misinformation and disinformation. “I advise you to make good use of digital platforms and social media to limit the spread of mis/disinformation,” Riza urged the students, before delving into a set of skills and values needed for those aspiring to take up leadership roles in the UN in the future.
“Dreaming of Lebanon”: Learning through Virtual Reality
The visit included a screening of “Dreaming of Lebanon,” a VR documentary that offers an immersive glimpse into the aspirations of young Lebanese amidst challenging times. Produced by the Office of the United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon (UNSCOL) and the Innovation Cell at the United Nations Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA), the film used 360-degree technology to bring human-centered stories of resilience and hope to life.
Students were particularly moved by the narratives of Josephine Abou Abdo and Batoul Hakim, whose stories of perseverance and commitment to Lebanon inspired them. "The documentary was a vivid lesson in hope and resilience, showing us that despite adversity, we can dream of and work towards a better future," shared student Paul Maaykel.
Insights into Negotiations and Conflict Prevention
The screening of the VR documentary was followed by an engaging session with UNSCOL experts, Pascale El-Kassis and Alaa Abdel-Aziz on negotiations and conflict prevention, who both introduced the students to real-world applications of negotiation, mediation, and conflict prevention strategies.
This interaction enriched the students’ understanding of these concepts and strategies, sparking lively debates and discussions that helped hone their leadership and communication skills.
Commenting on the session, Maurice Nasr said he was “impressed” by how UN strategies were formulated and implemented. As for Tia Azar, she described the session as “remarkably interactive.”
Reflecting on a Memorable Experience
The students unanimously appreciated the visit, highlighting its role in deepening their understanding of the UN's operations and the practical application of their MUN learnings. "This was a rare glimpse behind the scenes of international diplomacy, offering invaluable insights that go beyond the classroom," said student Carl Mchaylah.
Hoda Houssami, the MUN Coordinator and English teacher at SSCC-Kfarhbab, summed up the visit: “It was a rigorous, memorable, and impactful learning experience that broadened our students' horizons, equipping them with a deeper understanding of the UN's pivotal role in addressing global and local crises."
“Overall, the visit was unforgettable and incredibly enriching for everyone involved. From our arrival, we were met with exceptional care and professionalism,” added Elisabeth Boutros, the Head of Grade 9 and Grade 10 Division at SSCC Kfarhbab.”
This immersive experience not only educated these young minds on the complexities of global diplomacy and humanitarian efforts but also inspired them to envision their roles in crafting a better future for Lebanon and the world.
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05 September 2024
Shaping a Greener Future: How the Greening Education Initiative Equips Young Minds for Sustainability
Implemented by UNESCO in partnership with the Center for Educational Research and Development (CERD) in Jounieh where it is located, the Green Demonstration Room plays a crucial role in preparing students to tackle environmental challenges. It provides essential knowledge and skills for a climate-ready future."If I were to build a house in the future, it would be environmentally friendly by relying on solar energy and wind turbines to meet the house's energy needs without polluting the environment." – Bahaa El Din, 14 years oldSince its activation, the Green Demonstration Room has made a significant difference. In 2023, it welcomed 525 students from 21 schools. This year, it has hosted 1582 students from 70 schools, showing the growing importance of environmental education. Students like Bahaa learn practical ways to support a sustainable future, such as using renewable energy and recycling.The program offers a well-rounded educational experience. It begins with a training at the Green Demonstration Room, where students engage in activities covering green building concepts, energy efficiency, water conservation, environmental issues, physical phenomena, cultural arts, and music. This holistic approach helps students gain a broad understanding of sustainability.Yara Constantine, a biology teacher, observes, "Through this day, the students have learned how to protect the environment in very simple ways." Students also learn about alternative energy sources; as Nivine Saab, a math teacher, notes, "They also learned how to produce electricity using alternative methods to the commonly known ones." Amal Al Qays, a supervisor and health advisor, shares, "We are very excited to go home and implement everything we have learned here." These testimonials reflect the transformative power of the Greening Education Initiative in shaping young minds to think and act sustainably. The hands-on experience and comprehensive educational approach inspire both students and teachers to embrace environmental responsibility.After visiting the Green Demonstration Room, students continue their learning through various school-based activities. They receive a Certificate of Commitment, pledging their dedication to environmental conservation. This certificate marks their transformation into climate action ambassadors, empowering them to promote sustainable practices within their communities. As agents of change, these students are committed to applying their newfound knowledge to inspire their peers and families, particularly within their schools and homes, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.Maysoun Chehab, Chief of Education and Senior Program Specialist at UNESCO Beirut Office, reflects, "The Greening Education Initiative in Lebanon, supported by UNESCO, is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about inspiring young minds like Bahaa El Din to envision and create an environmentally friendly world. By equipping Lebanese students with commitments, tools, and understanding to harness renewable energy and adopt sustainable practices, we are empowering them to become the architects of Lebanon's sustainable future, ensuring a greener tomorrow for their nation."Looking ahead, the initiative will expand its impact through several key activities. Upcoming events in 2024 will include significant training opportunities. In September, UNESCO Beirut will host 48 teachers and 24 principals from 24 schools for Teachers and Principals Training who will be trained by the Center for Educational Research and Development (CERD) experts. The training aims to equip school leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to integrate sustainable practices effectively within their institutions.Moreover, the development of a comprehensive strategy for sustainable education is moving towards completion. The Center for Educational Research and Development (CERD), supported by UNESCO, is finalizing a National Policy on Greening Education. This strategy is being shaped by a National Committee that includes representatives from nine key ministries, fifteen Lebanese NGOs focused on sustainability and youth, relevant agencies, the private sector, and parent representatives. Their collaborative work is crucial for establishing a unified approach to climate change education in Lebanon.The Greening Education Initiative is essential for equipping students, educators and their community with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to navigate the green and digital transitions. Through this initiative, education becomes a powerful tool for fostering environmental stewardship and preparing the next generation to tackle global challenges.
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13 August 2024
Breaking Chains, Building Lives – Aya’s Story
The Lebanese Council to Resist Violence Against Woman, or LECORVAW, is a non-governmental organization working with UNFPA support to combat gender-based violence. Aya is an 18-year-old Lebanese woman living with hemiplegia, a condition caused by brain damage or spinal cord injury that leads to paralysis on one side of the body. Aya is determined to prove that with dedication and resilience, anything is possible. As a person with a disability, Aya faced significant barriers in finding employment opportunities. Despite her qualifications and determination, employers often overlooked her potential due to misconceptions about her capabilities. She was also at heightened risk of exploitation and gender-based violence.Aya attended one of LECORVAW’s awareness-raising sessions on gender-based violence at the Rahma for Special Needs centre and enrolled in a LECORVAW skills-building class.Aya also attended a UNFPA-funded project at Rahma Medical Centre. There, she discovered her passion for soap-making. Her condition meant that she was initially unable to participate fully in the sessions. But with enthusiasm and determination, she succeeded in learning how to create beautiful fragrant soaps.Aya has started her own business selling handmade soaps. Starting her own business not only provided her with a source of income but also gave her a sense of empowerment. Her business served as a crucial means of safeguarding herself against potential gender-based violence. By establishing her own business and becoming financially independent, Aya gained a sense of autonomy and control over life that significantly reduced her exposure to such threats.At the end of the session, Aya asked to be included in LECORVAW's skills-building activities. She wants her success to inspire others to overcome their obstacles like she overcame hers: she has been sharing her knowledge and experience to empower those around her, especially her coursemates in the Rahma Centre.
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25 June 2024
Seeds of Hope: Salma Khawla and Equality in Lebanon’s Agribusiness
Under the Productive Sector Development Programme, UN Women and the Lebanese League for Women in Business provided support to 25 micro and small businesses in the agrifood sector to implement the Women’s Empowerment Principles, principles which guide businesses on empowering women in the workplace, the marketplace and the community.These businesses have since recruited 33 new women employees, of whom eleven (34 per cent) are women with disabilities. Boustan Salma is a working farm. But it also educates children about day-to-day farming life, including ploughing, harvesting, caring for livestock, and making pasta and other food. Salma believes that implementing the Women’s Empowerment Principles in her business has contributed to its success. “Including women spurs creativity and problem-solving, and increases innovation”, she says. “Being a part of the Women’s Empowerment Principles has reinforced a workplace culture that promotes gender equality, contributing to overall business performance, sustainability, and long-term success.” The Productive Sector Development Programme is a three-year programme implemented by UN Women, FAO, UNIDO, UNDP, UNICEF, and the ILO and funded by the Government of Canada through the Lebanon Recovery Fund. It focuses on gender-responsive job creation and economic opportunities in the agriculture and agrifood sectors, prioritizing women and female youth in disadvantaged areas.
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25 June 2024
Episodes of Resilience: Zyara and the Revival of Lebanese Culture
The series is the brainchild of Denise Jabbour and Muriel Aboulrouss. Before 2019, the cultural and creative industries were one of the most dynamic sectors of the economy of Lebanon. In 2019 it was estimated that they accounted for 4.75 per cent of the country’s GDP and employed 4.5 per cent of its official labour force. This figure rises to 20 per cent if the informal workforce is taken into account. The multifaced crisis facing Lebanon in the past four years has created huge difficulties for the cultural and creative industries. In the absence of opportunities and social protection, artists and cultural professionals have found themselves in difficult circumstances. Denise and Muriel were not immune to the crisis. “At the beginning of 2023, we had made the decision not to produce a new season”, says Denise. “Then the BERYT project came to our rescue.” The BERYT project supports proposals aimed at promoting and reviving culture and the arts. The project is led by UN-Habitat Lebanon. It receives funding from the Lebanon Financing Facility, administered by the World Bank. UNESCO is responsible for implementing the programme in connection with the cultural and creative industries. BERYT provides emergency grant assistance to artists and cultural practitioners in difficulty. Under the initial call for proposals, 93 grants were awarded; in 2024, there will be a second call, extending aid to vulnerable practitioners. This signals ongoing support for Beirut’s cultural revival. The BERYT project has given the Zyara team renewed dedication to continue their creative journey and embark on a new season. “The Lebanese community is a rich source of heartfelt narratives”, says Denise. “We’re confident that life will support us in overcoming any challenge, and we’re dedicated to safeguarding our nation and upholding our cultural identity.”
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25 June 2024
Heritage Heroes: An Unprecedented collaboration to Safeguard Lebanon's Heritage
A tailor-made training course on protecting cultural heritage was delivered at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tyre between July and September 2023.The course, which was delivered by the Lebanese NGO Biladi and endorsed by Cultural Emergency Response, consisted of 12 days of training, including field visits to museums and sites that had been reconstructed after being damaged in war.This initiative is a result of long-term cooperation between UNESCO and UNIFIL, the United Nations peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon. The Lebanese Armed Forces, the Lebanese Civil Defence and the Red Cross were also involved. This was the first time that these bodies had collaborated with archaeologists and the local community to better understand how to work together to protect heritage during emergencies. One month after they completed the course, the participants were unexpectedly asked to put the knowledge and skills they learned on the course into practice when they were called upon to evacuate a number of objects to the National Museum in Beirut. “Being trained with army officers helped us to evacuate the objects successfully, using best practices in heritage preservation”, says Ali Badawi, head of the archaeological sites in southern Lebanon. “This training helped me to understand and take pride in my heritage”, says Mariam Balhas, a Red Cross first-aider in Tyre. “I now know that I can play a role in preserving it, a consideration that never crossed my mind before.
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Press Release
15 October 2024
Urgent humanitarian response needed amidst escalating conflict in Lebanon – WFP and UNICEF
“During a three-day visit to Lebanon, we witnessed the devastation and sensed people’s fear and confusion. For them, the future remains uncertain as long as their country is under fire. The war that the world wanted to avoid in Lebanon is now happening and has already triggered a catastrophe. “We visited shelters and informal tented settlements, engaged with affected communities and met with government officials and civil society partners who are working around the clock to respond to the needs. Each person had a story – a story of forced displacement and multiple struggles. We also visited the Masnaa Checkpoint where hundreds of thousands have crossed into Syria, further complicating the humanitarian response.“Families are living in perilous circumstances. And as the conflict worsens, the psychological toll on the population, particularly among children and youth, is increasing. Almost every child in Lebanon has been impacted in some way. Many have been victims of bombardments, losing loved ones, their homes, access to education and are facing an uncertain future in possibly deeper poverty. “Around 1.2 million people have been affected, with a significant impact on vulnerable communities. Nearly 190,000 displaced individuals are currently sheltered in over 1,000 facilities, while hundreds of thousands more are seeking safety among family and friends. “In response, UNICEF and WFP have been working hand in hand to deliver vital support across Lebanon. WFP prepositioned food at strategic locations, effectively meeting the needs of approximately 200,000 people daily with ready to eat food and cash. Working with government ministries and partners, UNICEF is delivering essential support to children and their families– primary health care, water and hygiene kits, mattresses and blankets – and psychosocial support services to respond to the mental health concerns of children being rolled out in shelters.“We have seen remarkable solidarity amongst Lebanese communities, supporting one another during these challenging times. However, due to the scale and severity of the needs, coupled with pre-existing vulnerabilities and pressure on social services, the social fabric is challenged and must be considered in our response, including through assisting also vulnerable hosting communities and being sensitive to their concerns. “The voices of local families resonate with our concerns: they continue to feel at risk, even after fleeing immediate danger. Parents are expressing anxiety about their children’s safety, including in newly designated shelters. There is an urgent need for their protection, as specified by international humanitarian law. “International humanitarian lawmust be respected. All parties must prioritize the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure. This includes protecting schools, hospitals, water systems, and ensuring safe passage for civilians fleeing conflict zones. No child should face the indiscriminate use of explosive weapons in populated areas. And all those trying to reach them with life-saving assistance should also be protected.“As aid agencies, we are preparing for the reality that the needs are increasing. While we continue providing immediate assistance, it is crucial support is mobilized to enable a scaled-up response. We need additional funding, without conditionalities to provide assistance. We urge the international community to get behind these efforts and collaborate in keeping ports and supply routes open and call on parties to the conflict to ensure these routes are protected to enable unimpeded access to humanitarian assistance. “Above all else, the children and families of Lebanon need this war to end. To protect them from violence, ensure they can receive essential supplies and services, and prevent a further deterioration of the situation. A ceasefire is urgent.” ###
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Press Release
15 October 2024
ILO to improve living conditions for displaced people and provide jobs for local communities
In response to the escalating crisis in Lebanon the ILO Employment Intensive Infrastructure Programme (EIIP), funded by Germany through the KfW Development Bank and by internal ILO funding is expanding its activities to address the urgent needs of displaced families and individuals affected by the crisis while also creating much-needed job opportunities for local residents.The initiative will improve living conditions in collective shelters harbouring residents who have fled unsafe parts of the country, while also creating cash-for-work opportunities in rehabilitating buildings being used as shelters. Initially, the new initiative will focus on shelters located in the Dekwaneh area of the capital Beirut and the northern coastal city of Tripoli, with plans to extend assistance to additional shelters and areas throughout Lebanon.While the initiative will initially create inclusive job opportunities in shelter rehabilitation works for vulnerable women and men, including persons with disabilities, its later stages will also aim to promote early economic recovery and restore livelihoods amongst those communities most severely affected by displacement. The Lebanese authorities report that the current conflict has displaced at least one million people in recent weeks. Immediate rehabilitation works under the EIIP will focus on installing temporary partition panels to create designated livings spaces, rehabilitating kitchens, sanitary facilities and wastewater and storm water drainage networks, and cleaning the shelters and their surroundings.The initiative falls under the ILO’s Lebanon Emergency Response Plan and will be implemented under the guidance of the Government's Emergency Response Committee, led by the caretaker Minister of Environment, Nasser Yassin. It builds on existing EIIP activities, with other ILO development projects due to join the initiative.The ILO’s Emergency Response Plan complements the Emergency and Relief Committee established by the Lebanese government and a number of UN agencies. It aims to mitigate the impact of the war on the residents of Lebanon and prepare the ground for recovery, in accordance with its mandate to advance social protection and ensure decent work opportunities and economic sustainability.-END- For media queries, kindly contact:Ms. Salwa KanaanaRegional Communication & Public Information Officerkanaana@ilo.org
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Press Release
14 October 2024
UN Interim Force in Lebanon "UNIFIL" Statement - Ramyah Incidents
At around 4:30 a.m., while peacekeepers were in shelters, two IDF Merkava tanks destroyed the position’s main gate and forcibly entered the position. They requested multiple times that the base turn out its lights. The tanks left about 45 minutes later after UNIFIL protested through our liaison mechanism, saying that IDF presence was putting peacekeepers in danger.At around 6:40 a.m., peacekeepers at the same position reported the firing of several rounds 100 metres north, which emitted smoke. Despite putting on protective masks, fifteen peacekeepers suffered effects, including skin irritation and gastrointestinal reactions, after the smoke entered the camp. The peacekeepers are receiving treatment.In addition, yesterday, IDF soldiers stopped a critical UNIFIL logistical movement near Meiss ej Jebel, denying it passage. The critical movement could not be completed. For the fourth time in as many days, we remind the IDF and all actors of their obligations to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property and to respect the inviolability of UN premises at all times.Breaching and entering a UN position is a further flagrant violation of international law and Security Council resolution 1701 (2006). Any deliberate attack on peacekeepers is a grave violation of international humanitarian law and resolution 1701. UNIFIL’s mandate provides for its freedom of movement in its area of operations, and any restriction on this is a violation of resolution 1701.We have requested an explanation from the IDF from these shocking violations.
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Press Release
14 October 2024
UN Interim Force in Lebanon "UNIFIL" Statement - Peacekeeper injured due to ongoing military activity
The soldier underwent surgery at our Naqoura hospital to remove the bullet and is currently stable. We do not yet know the origin of the fire.
Also last night, buildings in our UN position in Ramyah sustained significant damage due to explosions from nearby shelling.
We remind all actors of their obligations to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and premises, including avoiding combat activities near UNIFIL positions
Also last night, buildings in our UN position in Ramyah sustained significant damage due to explosions from nearby shelling.
We remind all actors of their obligations to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and premises, including avoiding combat activities near UNIFIL positions
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Press Release
14 October 2024
UN Interim Force in Lebanon "UNIFIL" Statement - Headquarters and position 1-31 Incidents
Two peacekeepers were injured after two explosions occurred close to an observation tower. One injured peacekeeper was taken to a hospital in Tyre, while the second is being treated in Naqoura.
Today, several T-walls at our UN position 1-31, near the Blue Line in Labbouneh, fell when an IDF caterpillar hit the perimeter and IDF tanks moved in the proximity of the UN position. Our peacekeepers remained at the location, and a UNIFIL Quick Reaction Force was dispatched to assist and reinforce the position.
These incidents put again UN peacekeepers, who are serving in south Lebanon at the request of the Security Council under resolution 1701 (2006), at very serious risks.
This is a serious development, and UNFIL reiterates that the safety and security of UN personnel and property must be guaranteed and that the inviolability of UN premises must be respected at all times. Any deliberate attack on peacekeepers is a grave violation of international humanitarian law and Security Council resolution 1701 (2006).
Today, several T-walls at our UN position 1-31, near the Blue Line in Labbouneh, fell when an IDF caterpillar hit the perimeter and IDF tanks moved in the proximity of the UN position. Our peacekeepers remained at the location, and a UNIFIL Quick Reaction Force was dispatched to assist and reinforce the position.
These incidents put again UN peacekeepers, who are serving in south Lebanon at the request of the Security Council under resolution 1701 (2006), at very serious risks.
This is a serious development, and UNFIL reiterates that the safety and security of UN personnel and property must be guaranteed and that the inviolability of UN premises must be respected at all times. Any deliberate attack on peacekeepers is a grave violation of international humanitarian law and Security Council resolution 1701 (2006).
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07 March 2024
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