Improving living conditions in urban areas of North Lebanon

Project description

Title: Local development in urban areas of North Lebanon (UDP_NL)
Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)​​​​​​​
Cofinanced by: European Union
Country: Lebanon​​​​​​​
Lead executing agency: Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA)​​​​​​​
Overall term: 2017 to 2023

Context

The district of North Lebanon has high unemployment and very high poverty rates. Women and young people are particularly affected. In view of the economic crisis that has affected the country since 2019, they have limited prospects. Moreover, the large number of Syrian refugees is leading to competition for public services and on the labour market. The situation is exacerbating social tensions between ethnic and religious communities and creating a breeding ground for conflict.

Objective

The socio-economic conditions in disadvantaged urban areas of North Lebanon have improved, in particular for young people and women. Relations between the various ethnic and religious communities in North Lebanon have been strengthened.

Approach

The project implements measures to promote income and employment, supports the development of infrastructure, and strengthens relations between ethnic and religious communities.

At the same time, it contributes to equal access to employment and social participation for women. It works closely with municipalities and local partner organisations and also involves the population. In addition, it supports selected partner organisations in building organisational capacities and management skills.

To improve relations between the various ethnic and religious communities, the project brings young people together through events relating to sports, culture and conflict transformation. It thus promotes sports and creative abilities while also teaching life skills.

The project is part of the Partnership for Prospects programme of BMZ’s special initiative Tackling the Root Causes of Displacement – Reintegrating Refugees. BMZ is thus contributing to creating social and economic prospects. The project is cofinanced by the European Union.

Last update: September 2023