The European Union announced on Wednesday a funding package of €8 million to support peace, stability and security in Lebanon following over a year of devastating conflict. The 13-month conflict has caused severe humanitarian consequences, including widespread civilian casualties, massive displacement and destruction of infrastructure, putting immense pressure on Lebanon’s fragile institutions.
The EU-funded initiative will be implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The project aims to assist communities affected by the conflict, help displaced families return safely and strengthen local peace building efforts. Key objectives include enhancing the capabilities of the Internal Security Forces (ISF) and supporting the Lebanon Mine Action Center (LMAC) in clearing unexploded ordnance from conflict-affected areas.
The funding agreement was signed at the ISF headquarters in Beirut. The ceremony was attended by ISF Director General Major General Raed Abdullah, EU Director for Foreign Policy Instruments Peter Wagner, EU Ambassador to Lebanon Sandra De Waele and UNDP Resident Representative Blerta Aliko.
Wagner emphasized the importance of the ISF’s role in maintaining public order and highlighted the urgency of supporting their efforts. He noted that LMAC’s work in demining is critical for saving lives and enabling recovery and development.
Ambassador De Waele reaffirmed the EU’s continued commitment to Lebanon, stating, “This new program reflects our ongoing support for Lebanon and its security institutions in promoting peace and stability at this critical time.”
UNDP’s Aliko described the initiative as a turning point, saying, “As families return and communities rebuild, this program lays the groundwork for long-term peace and development.”
The UNODC Regional Office expressed its commitment to improving prison conditions and promoting prisoner rehabilitation in Lebanon, stressing that the project will help reduce tensions and support social reintegration.
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