OVERGROWING REFUGEE PROBLEM IN LEBANON

Abstract

The growing issue of Syrian refugees in Lebanon weaves tightly with Lebanon's past. It's a country with a complex history surrounding refugees, especially Palestinian refugees, and a long past with Syria. This rising refugee concern started after the Syrian Civil War. It's also tied to political, social, and economic elements that shaped Lebanon's reaction to this human crisis. Lebanon serving as a sanctuary for refugees isn't a new thing. It started before the Syrian refugee wave that came after the 2011 Civil War. The long-standing Palestinian refugee community, who've lived in Lebanon's camps for about seven decades, remarkably impacted Lebanon's view on welcoming refugees. Lebanese-Palestinian history carries weight due to the Arab-Israeli conflicts and PLO's role in the Lebanese Civil War. This past creates a hesitant, suspicious attitude in Lebanon towards refugees. It impacts how they handle the crisis of Syrian refugees. Also, the lasting stay of Syrian soldiers in Lebanon following its Civil War added tension. This, combined with Syria's large political sway, has intensified the rift between the countries. The long-term effects of this situation have stirred negativity towards Syrians and refugees in Le Banon. It's impacted both societal views and politics. It's also determined how Lebanon's government handles the necessities of Syrian refugees. Lebanon has a special governance system. It gives roles to people based on their religion. It has really influenced how they treat the refugee situation. Why? Because they're scared. They're scared about their population changing. Scared about tension between religious groups. That worry makes them hesitant in giving legal status to the refugees. They're worried that this might make the refugees want to stay longer. The past vents highlight the complex reasons for Lebanon's approach to the increasing refugee situation. The Syrian Civil War started, and Lebanon became home to roughly 1.5 million Syrian refugees. That's a ton for a place with around only 6.8 million people. Lebanon faces a massive dilemma now. It tests their shaky economy and society greatly. Lebanon's challenge is dealing with a large number of refugees. Their old residency rules make it tough. Many Syrians don't have official status. They can't work, go to school, or get healthcare. They might be taken advantage of and can't do much legally about it. Additionally, tough management hurdles, like the twice-yearly complex registration for refugees over 15, carry on their unstable situation. Various refugees, scared off by the difficult renewal steps, choose not to renew their legal status. This worsens their risk and blocks their way to vital services. The refugee crisis has had a profound and far-reaching impact on the fundamental rights and well-being of those affected, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and basic living conditions. These dire circumstances permeate all aspects of their lives, potentially perpetuating long-term vulnerabilities and significantly affecting their daily existence. In this context, international aid has played a crucial role in addressing the immense humanitarian needs created by Lebanon's refugee crisis. However, the necessary funds to adequately support these individuals have fallen short, resulting in approximately 54% of the required 2014 funding remaining unmet. This financial strain has only added to the already daunting challenges of providing essential support and services to the refugees.