Slovenia’s Humanitarian Support in Lebanon: A Commitment in Action

Lebanon is facing one of its most challenging periods in recent history. An ongoing economic crisis, political instability, and a worsening security situation have placed immense strain on communities already struggling to meet basic needs. Since October 7, 2023, when hostilities escalated in the region have led to mass displacement, forcing families from their homes. The number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) has surged from 110,000 between October 2023 and September 2024 to more than 875,000 by November 2024 (IOM, 2024).Thousands more have fled to neighbouring Syria and Iraq, worsening an already dire humanitarian crisis.

Amidst these challenges, Slovenia has demonstrated its commitment to humanitarian aid and mine victim assistance. Since 2021, Slovenia has provided €806,000 through ITF  via Slovenian Aid & Partnerships for humanitarian projects in Lebanon, directly supporting those affected by conflict. As Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon visits Lebanon, including the Lebanese Mine Action Center, the impact of this support is visible—offering relief, restoring dignity, and giving hope to those in need.

Addressing Urgent Humanitarian Needs in Lebanon

Lebanon’s history of conflict has left behind a deadly legacy: landmines, cluster munitions and other explosive remnants of war (ERW). From the Lebanon War in 1982 to recent hostilities, these hidden threats continue to claim lives, limit access to agricultural land, and place further strain on an already fragile economy. For mine victims, the consequences extend beyond physical injuries—they face limited access to medical care, rehabilitation, and job opportunities.

Slovenia’s support, delivered through ITF, has been critical in providing medical and rehabilitation services to mine victims. Between 2021 and 2022, over 100 individuals received prosthetic limbs, 76 were fitted with orthotic devices, and 477 benefited from assistive devices to improve mobility and independence. Nearly 400 people, including Syrian refugees, mine victims, and those affected by the 2020 Beirut explosion, have participated in psychosocial support workshops which go hand in hand with physical rehabilitation.

Despite security challenges, ITF’s assistance has continued into 2023 and 2024. In the past two years, 21 individuals have received prostheses, orthoses, or assistive devices, and 32 people have accessed vital medication. Additionally, 47 individuals have participated in psychosocial support programs to help them recover from trauma and rebuild their lives. Economic empowerment has also remained a priority, with training programs helping beneficiaries develop business ideas and secure sustainable incomes.

Emergency Aid: Supporting Families Through Crisis

As displacement continues to remain a challenge and winter is not over yet, humanitarian needs persist. Slovenia responded by providing additional aid to ensure the most vulnerable receive essential support, once again responding to a humanitarian crisis far from its borders. In the latter half of 2024 alone, Slovenia allocated an additional €200,000 to provide direct aid to displaced families—delivering over 31,000 blankets to protect against harsh winter conditions and distributing 158 vouchers for essential goods. This aid is not just about survival; it is about preserving dignity and stability for those who have lost everything.

From Survivor to Supporter: A Story of Strength

Among the many individuals benefiting from Slovenia’s support is a man who lost his left arm in an ERW accident as a child. Thanks to ITF’s assistance, funded by Slovenia, he received a prosthetic limb that enabled him to regain independence. But his journey didn’t stop there—he trained as a prosthetics technician and now works in a workshop fitting prostheses for others with similar injuries, which is also enabling him to provide for his family. His story reflects the real impact of Slovenia’s support: not just restoring mobility but empowering individuals to rebuild their lives.

Slovenia’s Ongoing Commitment to Lebanon

Minister Tanja Fajon’s visit to Lebanon reinforces Slovenia’s dedication to humanitarian aid, mine action, and regional stability. The progress made so far is significant, but ongoing international support is essential.

With sustained support, the goal is clear: to provide not only immediate relief but also long-term resilience for Lebanon’s most vulnerable communities. Slovenia’s contributions—whether through medical care, economic empowerment, or emergency aid—stand as an exemplary case to solidarity and shared responsibility in times of crisis.

Sources
International Organization for Migration. (2024). Lebanon Crisis Response Update. Retrieved from https://www.iom.int
World Bank. (2024). Lebanon Poverty and Equity Assessment 2024 – Weathering a Protracted Crisis. Retrieved from http://documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/099052224104516741/P1766511325da10a71ab6b1ae97816dd20c