Safety and Security Challenges in Lebanon Amid Ongoing Crisis

Lebanon’s severe economic and humanitarian crisis since 2019 has escalated safety and security concerns across diverse populations. Notably, increased insecurity is reported among Lebanese households, Palestinian refugees, and migrant workers. An in-depth analysis reveals the necessity for addressing root causes through improved public services and aid distribution to enhance overall stability and safety in Lebanon.

Since 2019, Lebanon has grappled with a severe economic and humanitarian crisis, which significantly impacts safety and security across the nation. The economic collapse, exacerbated by the August 2020 Beirut blast and a healthcare crisis, has plunged more than half the population into poverty. This crisis affects individuals regardless of nationality or background, as deteriorating job availability, healthcare quality, and access to basic necessities have further destabilized living conditions.

The 2023 Multi-Sectoral Needs Assessment (MSNA) reveals shifts in safety and security concerns among different population groups in Lebanon. Notably, 23% of Lebanese households expressed security concerns for women in 2024, an increase from 20% in 2022. Among Palestinian refugee households, 51% reported safety concerns for men in 2024, up from 37% in 2022, indicating heightened vulnerability since last year. Furthermore, live-out migrant households reported a rise in safety concerns, particularly for women, which surged from 21% in 2022 to 37% in 2023.

Although quantitative data sheds light on safety issues, it does not fully encompass the experiences of affected populations. There exists a significant literature gap concerning the drivers and broader context of safety concerns within vulnerable communities. This research endeavors to fill these gaps through an in-depth exploration of safety and security experiences across various neighborhoods in Lebanon, focusing on individual perceptions and the impact on daily life, while also considering how these populations engage with humanitarian assistance.

Key factors contributing to security issues in Lebanese neighborhoods include economic instability and inadequate public services. These challenges hinder individuals, especially from vulnerable groups, from fulfilling daily activities, such as accessing essential needs or pursuing education and employment. Consequently, this precarious environment may lead individuals to adopt detrimental coping mechanisms.

It is imperative for response actors, encompassing both humanitarian and governmental organizations, to tackle the root causes of insecurity effectively. Addressing economic difficulties, enhancing public services, and enforcing regulations while raising awareness are crucial. An integrated multi-sectoral strategy is necessary for reducing security incidents and fostering overall stability within the country.

Moreover, obstacles to aid distribution, including logistical issues and transparency concerns, heighten safety vulnerabilities. When assistance is inequitably or inefficiently distributed, individuals may find themselves without essential resources, thus increasing their susceptibility to exploitation, which may further compromise their safety and security.

This article highlights the profound impact of Lebanon’s ongoing crisis on safety and security, illustrating the vulnerabilities faced by various population groups. It emphasizes the urgency of addressing root causes of insecurity through comprehensive strategies and improving aid distribution mechanisms. Ultimately, the findings underscore the necessity for a multi-faceted approach to ensure that all individuals can access basic needs and support.

Original Source: reliefweb.int