The EU is stepping up its support for Lebanon as the crisis worsens.

The EU is stepping up its support for Lebanon amid escalating violence and large-scale displacement, reaffirming its commitment to the country’s stability. This is in addition to the€100 million in humanitarian aid allocated last week. The EU is also actively mobilising measures under its €1 billion financial support package for the period 2024–2027, to enable Lebanon to meet the most urgent needs on the ground. 

DubravkaŠuica, Commissioner for the Mediterranean, said:“True partners stand together in times of crisis. The EU’s support for Lebanon and its people is unwavering. Together with the Lebanese authorities and our international and regional partners, we are doing everything possible to ensure continued access to basic services. In addition to humanitarian aid, as part of our €1 billion financial support package, we are addressing the immediate needs of the most vulnerable, whilst continuing to call for de-escalation and the protection of civilians. We will also continue to support Lebanon’s security forces, whose role in maintaining stability remains crucial.”               

To assist those displaced by the escalation, the EU has allocated an additional €10 million in financial aid for 100,000 vulnerable households, channelled through the Lebanese government’s social protection programme. In view of the severe pressure on the national health system, more than 20 EU-funded mobile medical units have been deployed to support 67 collective shelters and areas under evacuation orders, to ensure that the population retains access to essential health services. 

The EU is also adapting its response in the field of education to ensure the continuity of learning, enabling distance learning for 50,000 students and providing digital training tools for 8,000 teachers. This expanded support will ensure integrated education and child protection services in reception centres and temporary learning spaces, reaching a total of 150,000 children and young people in need through both in-person and community-based programmes. 

The EU is also stepping up its support for the Lebanese government’s National Operations Room, which coordinates the emergency response. Finally, through the programme for durable solutions for Syrian refugees, the EU supports displaced people through border surveillance and transit management at key crossing points, including ensuring basic assistance for people crossing the border from Lebanon into Syria. 

Further information: European Commission