Since 2019, Lebanon has faced a humanitarian crisis affecting safety and security across the nation. Economic collapse and basic service failures have increased theft, domestic strife, and community tensions. Recent assessments reveal growing safety concerns among various population segments, indicating a need for targeted interventions to address root causes. By exploring these issues, the research seeks to provide a foundation for enhancing safety and security in Lebanon.
Lebanon has experienced a profound economic and humanitarian crisis since 2019, significantly impacting safety and security across the nation. This crisis has plunged over half the population into poverty due to an economic collapse, exacerbated by the devastating Beirut blast in August 2020. The decline in job opportunities, healthcare quality, and access to basic necessities has compromised safety, resulting in increased theft, domestic disturbances, and tensions among communities.
The 2023 Multi-Sectoral Needs Assessment identifies noteworthy shifts in safety and security concerns among various Lebanese population groups. reported safety and security issues for women from Lebanese households rose to 23% in 2024 from 20% in the previous year. Concerns regarding men increased from 20% to 25%. Notably, Palestinian refugee households reported heightened safety concerns, with 51% for men and 56% for women in 2024, a considerable rise from previous years. Furthermore, live-out migrant families saw women’s safety concerns grow from 21% to 37%.
Robbery emerges as a primary safety concern for women across different population groups, while women from Palestinian refugee households face specific risks of kidnapping and Lebanese women report heightened concerns of sexual harassment. Conversely, robbery concerns predominantly affect men, illustrating distinct safety expectations between genders. This pattern signifies an increase in safety issues among vulnerable populations over time.
Quantitative data provides important insights into safety concerns, yet it overlooks the lived experiences of those affected. Existing literature lacks comprehensive analysis regarding the specific drivers and broader contexts contributing to safety and insecurity in vulnerable communities. This research aims to fill these gaps by analyzing safety experiences across various neighborhoods, focusing on understanding perceptions and impacts on daily life while also examining interactions with humanitarian assistance.
Lebanon’s safety and security concerns have deepened due to economic instability and degraded public services, impacting individuals’ ability to fulfill daily needs. An integrated approach addressing the root causes of insecurity and improving aid distribution is crucial. By understanding the perceptions and experiences of affected populations, policymakers may develop targeted interventions to enhance overall safety and stability in Lebanon.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
