An international conference in Paris, led by President Emmanuel Macron, aimed to raise 426 million euros to aid Lebanon amid a humanitarian crisis resulting from recent conflicts. Macron pledged 100 million euros as more than a million people have been displaced. The conference highlighted urgent needs for shelter, food, and medical care, while advocating for local management of humanitarian aid. Despite international contributions, concerns about the sufficiency of funds for the displaced population persist.
This Thursday, an international conference dedicated to supporting Lebanon commenced in Paris, organized under the leadership of President Emmanuel Macron. With the humanitarian crisis escalating due to recent hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, participating nations committed to addressing the urgent needs of those displaced by the violence. “We must provide substantial aid to the Lebanese people immediately, including those displaced by the conflict and the communities that are sheltering them,” Macron stated at the conference’s opening.
More than one million individuals have had to evacuate their homes. The French president emphasized the need for a swift end to the conflict, asserting that “the war must conclude as quickly as possible. Continued violence will not eradicate terrorism nor enhance security for anyone.” He expressed concern over the rising civilian casualties, highlighting the impact of Israel’s ongoing military actions.
Mission: Raise 426 million euros for the displaced
The conference’s primary goal is to raise 426 million euros to aid those displaced and stabilize Lebanon, which is already grappling with a severe economic and political crisis. As the convenor of this global effort, France has pledged 100 million euros, while Germany has committed 96 million euros. Other contributors include the European Union and various Gulf nations.
Conditions on the ground are dire, with thousands of families in need of emergency assistance to cover basic necessities. “We must provide shelter, food for children, medical care for the injured, and ensure that education continues for students,” Macron stressed. He also mentioned that France is prepared to assist with educational support as requested by Lebanese authorities.
Financial assistance of only $200 per individual
Humanitarian aid is arriving daily. “There is already a humanitarian response from European and Arab nations, particularly regarding medical supplies, food, and clothing. Furthermore, the Lebanese civil society, which has shown resilience, is actively participating in the donation efforts,” a manager from Arc-en-ciel noted.
Apart from medical assistance, there is a significant need for housing. “Many displaced individuals are currently sheltered in schools, which disrupts the entire public education system and robs thousands of children of their schooling,” he explained. The ongoing conflict necessitates finding sustainable housing solutions, especially because several villages and neighborhoods have been utterly devastated. “Given the destruction in various areas, the rebuilding process will be prolonged,” the official cautioned.
He advocated for long-term housing solutions and noted that individuals offering refuge to the displaced also require support. The Lebanese economy has faced a grave downturn for the past five years, marking one of the most severe crises globally since the 19th century, as stated by the World Bank.
A call for local oversight of humanitarian aid
“This aid is undoubtedly appreciated, but we should be in charge of its distribution. We urge the international community and NGOs not to act as a self-righteous elite offering solutions from afar. It’s crucial to listen to the actual needs of the population,” the leader from Arc-en-ciel emphasized.
Despite the global commitment to aid, the pressing question remains: Will even 426 million euros suffice? “The math is straightforward; there are currently 1.2 million displaced persons, plus those assisting them, totaling around 2 million in need. That translates to approximately $200 per person, which is hardly adequate,” he cautioned. Furthermore, France is considering supporting the Lebanese army with equipment to facilitate its redeployment in the southern region once a ceasefire is achieved.