Beirut: The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Lebanon and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) have announced a new £1 million partnership aimed at advancing gender equality in Lebanon, particularly in areas affected by conflict. This initiative seeks to address Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and cater to the needs of women, youth, and marginalized communities. The partnership is seen as a crucial advancement in promoting gender equality through national policy engagement and social protection initiatives, with outreach services designed to reach Lebanon’s most vulnerable populations.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, the partnership comes at a critical time as Lebanon grapples with the consequences of more than a year of hostilities and an ongoing economic crisis. The country’s social services are a key component of its social protection system. The new partnership pledges support to the Ministry of Social Affairs to ensure that these services are accessible to the communities most in need, while prioritizing women, girls, and youth in the recovery process.
The initiative will also aid in implementing the National Strategy for Women in Lebanon (2022-2030) alongside the National Commission for Lebanese Women (NCLW). It seeks to ensure that GBV services meet international standards and adhere to national standard operating procedures, facilitating the healing of survivors and extending services to the most affected areas.
Kate McDermott, Head of Development and Humanitarian Team and Deputy Development Director, expressed the UK’s pride in partnering with UNFPA. She emphasized the collaboration with the Ministry of Social Affairs and the NCLW, highlighting the programme’s aim to advance gender equality, combat gender-based violence, and provide social protection services to women and vulnerable groups.
UNFPA expressed gratitude to the UK’s FCDO for their enduring partnership and shared commitment to the values and priorities concerning the women and girls in Lebanon.