The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has ramped up its emergency response in Lebanon as the country grapples with escalating conflict and displacement.
Activated on September 24, 2024, UNRWA’s efforts now span 11 emergency shelters across Lebanon, providing crucial support to 3,669 internally displaced persons (IDPs).
Introduction
An International Conference in Paris on October 24 resulted in $800 million in humanitarian aid pledges for Lebanon, highlighting the global recognition of the crisis. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reports a staggering 834,746 IDPs as of October 28, 2024, with new displacements continuing.
The health sector has been particularly hard-hit, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting 99 health workers killed and 82 injured since October 8, 2023.
Over 53 attacks on health facilities and 27 incidents involving ambulances have severely impacted healthcare services.
UNRWA’s Multi-Faceted Response
UNRWA’s emergency response encompasses several critical areas:
Focal Areas |
Actions |
|---|---|
| Health Services | 15 out of 27 health centers operational; monitoring for waterborne diseases |
| Education | Emergency tracking system for students; planning for 2024-25 academic year |
| Sanitation/WASH | Ongoing distribution of supplies; potential fuel shortage risks |
| Food Distribution | Pilot program for bread production; establishing community kitchens |
Current Priorities
The agency’s efforts extend beyond basic necessities:
- Psychosocial support services provided to 890 individuals, including 702 children
- Remote psychosocial support reaching 485 adults and 652 children through 721 care calls
- Conflict prevention measures implemented in emergency shelters
- Community engagement coaching sessions conducted with stakeholders
Despite these efforts, challenges persist. A displacement order by the Israeli Defense Forces for Baalbek and surrounding areas, including the Wavel Palestine Refugee camp, has raised concerns.
An airstrike near an UNRWA school in the Tyre area on October 27 caused damage, prompting an ongoing assessment.
Partnerships and Coordination
UNRWA’s response relies heavily on partnerships with local and international organizations. Co-support partners such as Nabaa, Tadamon, and the American Near East Refugee Aid (ANERA) provide additional services in emergency shelters. The agency also coordinates closely with UN agencies and international organizations like UNICEF, WFP, and Save the Children International.
The agency launched a Flash Appeal on October 3 for $27.3 million to address urgent humanitarian needs over 90 days. This funding is crucial as UNRWA faces potential fuel shortages, particularly in the Tyre area, which could disrupt water supply in camps.
Monitoring and Adjusting
As the situation evolves, UNRWA continues to monitor IDP trends, noting a slow decrease in shelter registrations for the fifth consecutive reporting period.
Some IDPs have returned to their homes in camps, while others have found alternative housing arrangements.
Security Concerns
The ongoing conflict presents significant challenges to UNRWA’s operations. Security concerns have forced the closure of 12 health centers, and volatile conditions complicate the planning of supply convoys.
Despite these obstacles, UNRWA remains committed to providing essential services and support to those affected by the crisis in Lebanon.
In Summary
As the international community rallies to support Lebanon, UNRWA’s comprehensive emergency response stands as a crucial lifeline for thousands of displaced individuals.
Coordinated humanitarian action provides hope and vital assistance to those most in need during crises, underscoring its importance.