Lebanon remains one of the largest refugee-hosting countries in the world, sheltering approximately 1.5 million Syrians and around 200,000 Palestinian refugees. According to the World Bank, 44% of the Lebanese population lives in poverty, and hyperinflation has made basic goods and services unaffordable for many. Refugees are among the most severely affected, with 90% relying on humanitarian assistance to meet their basic needs.

Refugees and vulnerable communities in Lebanon face many challenges. Rising costs and widespread poverty make basic goods and services hard to afford, while access to safe housing, healthcare, and income opportunities is limited. As a result, many families rely heavily on humanitarian support to meet their essential needs and regain stability.

Estonian Refugee Council has been working in Lebanon since 2018, supporting crisis-affected people with urgently needed emergency response initiatives as well as supporting their long-term recovery. 

Lebanon

Emergency response

In times of crisis, we have responded by providing cash assistance and shelter support to families displaced by conflict or disasters. We responded to the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon after the Israeli attacks in October 2024, providing internally displaced people with cash-based support to secure safe and stable housing.
ERC in Lebanon

Economic recovery

We have supported vulnerable Syrian refugees and local communities by fostering sustainable livelihoods and strengthening their economic resilience, by providing trainings, creating livelihoods opportunities, and encouraging social entrepreneurship.

News

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Estonian Refugee Council prepares to support people affected by war in the Middle East

The Estonian Refugee Council is preparing to support people affected by the war in the Middle East and neighbouring countries in response to the growing…
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Looking back on 2024: Reaching 69,000 people across six countries

ERC has published its 2024 annual report, summarising the key activities of the past year. In 2024, the organisation reached over 69,000 people, providing…