UNFPA, UK launch £1M partnership to advance gender equality and social protection in Lebanon

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Lebanon and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) have announced a new partnership to advance gender equality in conflict-affected Lebanon by responding to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) needs for women, youth, and marginalized communities.

"This partnership represents a significant step forward in strengthening gender equality through national policy engagement, social protection initiatives, and outreach services to reach the most vulnerable populations across Lebanon," UNFPA said in a statement.

Challenged by the recent impacts of more than a year of hostilities and an ongoing economic crisis, Lebanon’s social services constitute a vital pillar of the country’s social protection system. "This new partnership is committed to supporting the Ministry of Social Affairs to ensure that services are delivered to the most affected communities, and that women, girls, and youth are at the center of an inclusive recovery process," the statement said.

The partnership will also support the implementation of the National Strategy for Women in Lebanon (2022-2030) with the National Commission for Lebanese Women (NCLW), as well as ensure that GBV services align with international standards and national standard operating procedures, enabling survivors to heal and ensuring that services reach the most affected communities.

Kate McDermott, Head of Development and Humanitarian Team & Deputy Development Director said: “The United Kingdom is proud of our partnership with UNFPA working in close collaboration with the Ministry of Social Affairs and the National Commission for Lebanese Women (NCLW). This new program will contribute to advancing gender equality, combating gender-based violence and reaching women and vulnerable groups with social protection services."