Aid for civilians in Lebanon
Your donation for the people affected in Lebanon
In Lebanon, Caritas Switzerland continues to adapt its intervention, balancing immediate humanitarian response with efforts to foster resilience in an unpredictable environment.
Since 2012, Caritas Switzerland and its partners have been deeply engaged in Lebanon, primarily addressing the needs of Syrian refugees and vulnerable Lebanese communities amidst the protracted Syrian crisis.
Initially, projects focused on addressing the immediate needs of Syrian refugees and vulnerable Lebanese communities, such as food, hygiene, and psychosocial support.
A shift towards longer-term
Over time, the focus shifted towards longer-term development initiatives, including education, livelihood support, and gender-based violence protection.
The 2019 economic crisis and the 2020 Beirut explosion further intensified the need for emergency interventions, leading to projects like Emergency Cash for Protection (ESCAPE I-III) and Building Back Beirut. Recently, Caritas has emphasized sustainable employment for youth and integrated social protection.
However, the situation has dramatically shifted since 2023, marked by escalating violence in 2024, a fragile "ceasefire," and profound uncertainty about the future. This new reality unfolds within a context of severe economic collapse and social instability, further straining already vulnerable populations.
Urgent response and resilience
The recent violence and instability have necessitated a pivot in Caritas’s approach. While Syrian refugees remain a priority, the focus is expanding to address the acute needs of all conflict-affected communities.
«The atmosphere is charged with tension as people fear what the future may bring.»Wael darwishCountry director for lebanon and syria
Amid the latest conflict, three additional emergency projects have been launched to provide critical lifesaving assistance. As Lebanon navigates this turbulent period, Caritas Switzerland and its local partners AMEL and Caritas Lebanon continue to adapt their interventions, balancing immediate humanitarian response with efforts to foster resilience and sustainable development in an increasingly unpredictable environment.
Further information
Header image: The violence in Southern Lebanon is escalating – Caritas Switzerland is expanding its humanitarian aid. © Bilal Hussein