Launch of an action plan for seniors in Lebanon, announces the ESCWA

The Social Affairs Ministry, in collaboration with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), launched an action plan for the national strategy for the elderly in Lebanon (2020-2030) on Thursday, announced the ESCWA in a statement.

“This plan is of paramount importance in the current context of Lebanon, where the combined effects of successive crises have profound impacts on citizens, particularly the elderly, on psychological, health, social, and economic levels,” explained the ESCWA. For years facing a devastating financial crisis, Lebanon has struggled to meet the growing needs of its population, while essential infrastructures are largely dysfunctional.

This plan “provides a concrete roadmap, involving all actors, and constitutes a first step in a sustainable process aimed at supporting the elderly within their families and communities, and recognizing them as full partners in development,” explained caretaker Social Affairs Minister Hector Hajjar.

“Lebanon is experiencing one of the fastest demographic changes in terms of aging in the Arab region, requiring increased efforts,” highlighted Sara Salman, an ESCWA official.

The plan, which specifies the responsibilities of ministries, public institutions, civil society organizations and other stakeholders, was based on six main axes: Improving the physical and mental health of seniors; ensuring their economic and social security; promoting their active participation in society; supporting families and strengthening intergenerational solidarity; creating a safe, inclusive, and favorable environment for the elderly; and preventing violence while protecting elderly people at risk of abuse or affected by conflicts.