UN Women 620,000 Women, Girls Displaced In Lebanon Crisis
UN Women 620,000 Women, Girls Displaced in Lebanon Crisis
The UN Women has raised alarm over the worsening humanitarian situation in Lebanon, revealing that at least 620,000 women and girls have been displaced following the latest escalation of conflict. In a statement, UN Women described the crisis as disproportionately affecting women and girls, who now make up more than half of the displaced population. According to the agency, the ongoing violence is intensifying pre-existing gender inequalities, including:
- Limited access to income and livelihoods
- Weak or unequal legal protections
- Reduced access to essential social services
These challenges have been further worsened by displacement, leaving many women and girls in increasingly vulnerable conditions.
UN Women noted that the crisis is unfolding in a context where many women already faced structural disadvantages, now compounded by loss of homes, jobs, and safety networks.
The report highlights that about 85% of displaced women and girls are living outside formal shelters, often in
- Overcrowded apartments
- Informal settlements
- Temporary arrangements in urban areas such as Beirut and Mount Lebanon
“These conditions are not only difficult but dangerous,” a UN Women official warned, pointing to increased risks of exploitation, abuse, and gender-based violence.
The breakdown of protection and justice systems has also made it harder for victims to report abuse or access help.
UN Women said the figure of 620,000 represents
- Nearly one-quarter of all women and girls in Lebanon
- Affected groups include Lebanese citizens, Syrian and Palestinian refugees, and migrant communities
The agency described the scale of displacement as unprecedented in its impact on women, with many forced to flee without clear destinations or resources.
Beyond physical safety, the crisis is also driving:
- Increased mental health challenges
- Heightened fear, stress, and exhaustion among women caring for families
- Growing demand for gender-responsive humanitarian assistance
UN Women said it is scaling up efforts, including livelihood support, protection services, and emergency assistance, while calling for urgent international action.
- Immediate de-escalation of conflict
- Respect for international humanitarian law
- Increased support tailored to women and girls
It stressed that without urgent intervention, the crisis risks further deepening inequality and exposing thousands more to harm.
