World Vision started operating in Lebanon in 1975 with the onset of the civil war. Today we continue to assist Lebanese families and refugee communities through development projects, emergency relief, and advocacy.

While more than a quarter of the Lebanese population lives below the poverty line, marginalisation and vulnerability are even more widespread. Children and youth are dropping out of school to join the labour force and contribute to their family income. Lack of job opportunities and choices make children in Lebanon more vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation. 

The rapid urbanisation of Lebanon is also contributing to increased poverty. Poverty pockets characterised by high density of residents, over crowding, absence of proper physical infrastructure, and lack of access to basic goods and services are becoming more evident. Rural poverty is also prevalent, especially in the North, Bekaa and South of Lebanon, where people depend on agriculture for their livelihood. Palestinian refugees living in camps and informal settlements in Lebanon are among the most marginalised groups in the country.

Poverty in a middle-income country like Lebanon is often seen as an embarrassment. Lebanon is one of the few countries in the region that is not resource rich and is dependent on service industries like tourism and hospitality, and banking and financial services. All of which are easily disrupted by political tensions, uncertainty, violence and conflict. 

We believe there is hope for a brighter future for the children of Lebanon. Through child-focused projects, we're working with communities and children to promote change and improve their well-being.