Resident Coordinator’s Remarks at the CSOs consultations – Brussels Conference

Ladies and gentlemen, 

Esteemed representatives of NGOs, donors, and government officials,

It is an honor to address you today as we come together once more to reaffirm our solidarity and dedication to the people of Lebanon, Syria and the wider region.

Just over a year ago, I returned to work here in this current capacity after three years as RC/HC in Syria. 

I came back to a different Lebanon, which was not only still grappling with the profound impact of the Syrian crisis, but as you all know so well, the impact of the banking crisis, the financial crisis, the pandemic, the Beirut blast and political instability.  And now going into the fourth month without an end in sight, we have the escalation in the south, the instability brought not only to Lebanon but to the region as a whole due to the appalling and tragic situation in Gaza.

So we clearly have a great level of needs in Lebanon. Presently, 3.7 million Lebanese citizens, refugees, and migrants urgently require our assistance and support, particularly prioritizing vulnerable groups such as women, children, the elderly, and marginalized communities.

In this regard, we commend the Government of Lebanon for its continued commitment to upholding international law principles, including ensuring refugees' right to equal access to safe shelter and a dignified return. This means protecting refugees from discrimination and refoulement, until such a time when they can safely and voluntarily go home, which is the primary solution that we jointly strive for.  

The United Nations remains steadfast in its commitment to collaborating with key stakeholders to pursue long-term solutions for Syrian refugees, including resettlement to third countries and voluntary, safe, and dignified returns. The UN and partners are working with all those concerned, including the Syrian government, host countries and the international community to address the concerns refugees cite as obstacles to their return in large numbers, and increase support inside Syria.

While the humanitarian community attempts to create conducive conditions for return, our influence is limited, necessitating broader engagement beyond humanitarian realms. This persistent effort demands sustained international support and political will.

In response to these ongoing challenges, the international community, led by the Government of Lebanon, has provided vital support through frameworks such as the Emergency Response Plan (ERP), the Lebanon Crisis Response Plan (LCRP), and broader reform and development initiatives under the Lebanon Reform, Recovery, and Reconstruction Framework (3RF) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). As we transition into 2024, a consolidated framework, built upon past experiences, will be implemented to address humanitarian needs while advancing stability through a nexus approach.

This comprehensive approach, embodied in the Lebanon Response Plan (LRP), represents a significant shift, emphasizing tailored support to address diverse and complex needs and ensuring that we reach those most in need with the right support at the right time. Recognizing that addressing humanitarian needs requires more than just providing food and shelter, the LRP involves promoting livelihood opportunities, ensuring access to education and healthcare, and supporting local communities.

Collaboration and coordination among all stakeholders, including government bodies, humanitarian organizations, local communities, and donors, are paramount to guaranteeing the plan's success and leaving no one behind.

However, the success of the LRP depends on sustained funding and political support. We need to ensure that the resources are available to implement the plan effectively and that the necessary political will exists to address the root causes of the crisis.

The solid presence of national NGOs and CSOs in Lebanon presents a valuable opportunity for fruitful partnerships grounded in community trust and localization. The LRP is not just about short-term relief; it's also about laying the groundwork for long-term development. It seeks to empower communities to become more self-reliant and less reliant on external assistance.

Localization not only enhances accountability but also boosts response efficiency and paves the way for a timely transition out of humanitarian interventions.

As we work towards recovery, we remain deeply thankful to the European Union and its Member States for their unparalleled support during the ongoing Syria crisis. With over €30 billion mobilized,over the past 12 years, the EU has demonstrated exceptional leadership in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by the crisis. The EU's commitment to humanitarian, development, and stabilization efforts has been instrumental in alleviating suffering and providing vital assistance to Syrians within the country and across the region, as well as to hosting nations and communities.

Ladies, and gentlemen,

 We are no doubt facing one of the most difficult periods in term of resources available related to growing needs.  It requires us to be strategic, collaborative, streamlined and efficient.  There is a great deal of talent, creativity, commitment not just in this room, but also in those who you represent and those who you/we are trying to assist.  It is important that we use the upcoming opportunity in Brussels to show a shared vision and commitment in the interest of Lebanon, its people and the refugees it hosts.   

Thank you.