Oxfam's work in Lebanon in depth

During the conflict with Israel in 2006, an estimated 900,000 people in Lebanon fled from their homes. Oxfam responded with a humanitarian programme in south Beirut, southern Lebanon, and Baalbek. Armed conflict and political instability have created immense suffering – especially for vulnerable groups, including women, disabled people, refugees, and small-scale farmers. Oxfam is helping them to recover.

Oxfam in Lebanon

Oxfam returned to work in Lebanon in response to the humanitarian crisis that followed the conflict with Israel. In northern Lebanon, our partner organisations are moving their focus from relief operations to development projects. Through these partners, Oxfam is increasing its own understanding of the economic opportunities and limitations that face vulnerable groups, and we’re adjusting our programme accordingly. We are funding income-generation projects for rural women, disabled people, and young Palestinian refugees.

Economic revival

The conflict between Israel and Lebanon cost Lebanon dearly – direct physical damage is estimated to amount to more than US $2.1 billion. More than 150,000 people have lost their jobs and even more have left the country altogether. These two factors alone are putting severe strain on the Lebanese economy and, inevitably, it is the most vulnerable people who are suffering worst as a result.

With support from Oxfam, people are starting to revive their economic activities – or taking part in training sessions to provide them with skills to make a living. Our partners are helping them to rebuild or set up their own businesses.

For example, our partner organisation Collective Research and Training on Development-Action (CRTD-A) is helping rural women’s co-operatives to restock their farms, market their produce, and improve their organisational management. Lina Abu-Habib, director of CR TD-A, sees this practical assistance as just the start: “In my opinion, people can’t recover fully from the war unless the state can address the issues of gender inequality and social injustice. In particular, poor women are still extremely vulnerable to the after-effects of the conflict.”

This is why Oxfam’s work in the region includes advocacy at the highest levels on these essential matters.

Emergency response

We continue to give assistance to Palestinian refugees in Nahr Al Barid camp. In order to be well prepared to respond quickly to any future emergencies, the international Oxfams have developed a special contingency plan for Lebanon.

Strengthening skills

Working through partner organisations, Oxfam provides technical assistance on issues such as finance and programme management, so that local groups can deliver high-quality projects which will have a positive impact on the lives of poor people.

Last updated: July 08