UN Women 2020 Beirut Port Explosion Response Plan

On Wednesday 4th August 2020, at around 6pm (Beirut time), two explosions occurred at the Port of Beirut causing widespread casualties and material damage. As of 12th of August, 220 have people lost their lives, over 100 remain missing, and more than 5000 people are injured. Emerging data suggests that men are overrepresented amongst the dead (a UN Women estimate suggests that approximately 63% of the deceased are male1), likely due to the fact that they served as the majority of port workers and day labourers/migrant workers around the port area. Based on the estimates from the government, more than 300,000 people have lost their homes – with 50,000 housing units affected.

Local NGOs and CSOs, including various local women-focused NGOs have mobilized, supporting search, rescue and clean- up efforts, and the provision of emergency support – medical, food, cash, shelter and mental health support.

To support Lebanon to recover from the multiple shocks of the Beirut Blast, a nexus approach is critical – one that brings together humanitarian, development and peace and security work – targeting both short term relief and longer-term recovery.