The United Nations has announced a significant reduction in cash assistance to refugee families in Lebanon, set to take effect in 2024.

UNHCR spokesperson Lisa Abou Khaled announced that 88,000 fewer families will receive monthly aid next year compared to 2023. However, around 190,000 families will still get support, with a cap of $125 per household monthly.

Lebanon’s Financial Crisis

Lebanon has been grappling with a severe financial crisis since 2019, which has been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 Beirut port explosion, and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The country hosts approximately 790,000 registered Syrian refugees, the highest population of refugees per capita in the world.

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Notably, 90% of these refugees live below the extreme poverty line. The ongoing Syrian civil war has resulted in significant displacement and casualties. Amidst Lebanon’s economic challenges, there have been calls for the return of Syrians, with claims of safety in Syria.

Impact on Refugees

Amidst Lebanon’s economic challenges, there have been calls for the return of Syrians, with claims of safety in Syria.

However, human rights groups have reported instances of returning refugees facing detention and torture. In the last year, the Lebanese Army has deported several Syrians, including registered refugees.