IOM and Japan partner to provide life-saving humanitarian assistance to displaced and conflict-affected people in Lebanon

Beirut, 8 November 2024 – The Government of Japan has provided USD 1 million to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Lebanon to address critical humanitarian needs for conflict-affected populations, including displaced persons and host communities.

The funds will provide humanitarian assistance to affected communities, including essential relief items, such as mattresses, blankets, pillows, solar lamps and hygiene kits, with a focus on the most vulnerable individuals. The contribution will also improve living conditions for people sheltering in collective shelters and strengthen inter-agency coordination to ensure the timely delivery of assistance, protection, and services in collective shelters. The collaboration between the Government of Japan and IOM is a continuation of a long-standing partnership.

“This timely collaboration with IOM aims to answer to the profound humanitarian crisis across Lebanon in a swift manner. Under this emergency grant Japan aims to mitigate the toll of the intensified conflict in Lebanon on the displaced population and the affected communities through a tailored approach that will help meet their most basic needs. Japan will continue to closely engage with its local and international partners to support Lebanon during this critical time.” said Japan’s Ambassador to Lebanon, Magoshi Masayuki.

Since October 2023, IOM has assisted nearly 40,000 individuals through multi-sectoral emergency support, including the distribution of relief items and supporting access to basic services, including shelter and healthcare.

“This funding will help IOM meet the most basic needs of displaced individuals, including a safe place to stay, a warm bed, lighting, and hygiene. IOM greatly appreciates the continued support of the Government of Japan to address the growing humanitarian needs in Lebanon,” said Mathieu Luciano, IOM Lebanon’s Head of Office.

As of 6 November 2024, 875,180 internally displaced persons have been identified by IOM Displacement Tracking Matrix. Over 190,000 of those displaced are residing in collective shelters and require urgent humanitarian assistance, including food, shelter, water, sanitation, protection, and hygiene. These people face numerous risks, such as inadequate privacy, limited access to basic services, heightened vulnerability to gender-based violence, and potential health risks due to overcrowding. Japan’s timely contribution will support IOM to continue tackling these challenges.

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Contact Information

IOM Lebanon: beypsu@iom.int

IOM Tokyo: iomtokyo@iom.int