The European Union flag. (Credit: AFP)
BEIRUT — The European Commission on Thursday announced €60 million in humanitarian aid for the most vulnerable populations in Lebanon, as the country continues to suffer from an unprecedented economic crisis that started in 2019.
On a visit to Lebanon on Thursday, EU Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič announced that the aid will target the country's most vulnerable people, including Syrian refugees and Lebanese citizens in need.
"The funding comes as Lebanon’s population is facing increasing poverty levels, food insecurity, and disease outbreaks. An estimated four million people need humanitarian assistance to meet their basic needs," read the EU Commission statement.
"The new EU humanitarian package announced today will provide life-saving humanitarian aid such as food assistance, cash support, education and health services for those who need it the most. It will also help prepare for disasters and provide emergency response," the statement continued.
“Lebanon is facing multiple crises which are putting more and more people at risk. In addition, the country hosts some 1.5 million Syrian refugees, the highest number of refugees per capita in the world," said Lenarčič. "I want to thank Lebanon for its generosity in helping those fleeing the horrors of war. The European Union will not let the people in need down."
In January, the EU allocated €25 million to address food insecurity in Lebanon
"However, the roots of the political and economic crises must be addressed as soon as possible," warned Lenarčič. "Humanitarian aid is essential for the victims of Lebanon’s multiple crises, but it is not a solution to the underlying challenges.”
Lebanon's Parliament has yet to implement the necessary reforms to unlock a $3 billion aid package from the IMF.