Source: UN High Commissioner for Refugees
Country: Lebanon, occupied Palestinian territory, Syrian Arab Republic
Protection (Child Protection / SGBV)
- The Lebanese General Directorate of General Security (GSO) has confirmed the lifting of the pledge not to work as part of the residency renewal requirements, and its replacement with a pledge to abide by Lebanese laws; the USD 200 fees remain. This new requirement is being progressively implemented. In addition, advocacy remains on ensuring that all GSO offices accept UNHCR registration certificates instead of sponsors, which is reported to be a means of exploitation.
- Following the aftermath of the Al Qaa attacks and the negative media reports concerning refugees, the Protection and Social Stability Sectors developed key messages on xenophobia to be used as an advocacy tool in the host communities, and with key Government and civil society actors. The messages recognize the generosity of the Lebanese government and people; note that it is more important than ever that the communities stand together in the face of divisive forces, who promote chaos and poverty rather than peace and prosperity; and, that both the Lebanese and Syrian communities share the same desire to live in peace.
- In collaboration with the Protection Sector, HelpAge International carried-out a training on the “Inclusion and Protection of Older People in Emergencies.” The two-day training included both frontline workers and program managers from protection partners and resulted in strengthening the participants’ ability to identify key protection needs of elderly during periods of crisis and for partner programmes to be older people. Due to the Syrian refugee crisis, traditional family structures have often collapsed, leaving some elderly persons neglected and in a vulnerable situation without adequate care. Training will help bridge gaps between the need for specialized care arrangements (i.e. hygiene, help with every day chores, companionship, and preparation of meals) and rehabilitation, and current services provided by agencies and NGOs.
- Under the “Investing in Teenage Girls” theme, the 12 July World Population Day was marked by: rally papers in Chouf Area; youth peer support events in Saida and Qob Elias, individualized sensitization in Jezzine; and video spot against early marriage launched over social media. These initiatives highlighted the importance of empowering adolescent girls and increasing their participation in the development of their communities.