BEIRUT, Lebanon 2 February (UNHCR) – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency today welcomed a generous EUR 2.5 million contribution from the Government of Italy to support secondary health care for vulnerable Syrian refugees in Lebanon.
“This generous Italian contribution towards UNHCR’s health care programme comes at a time when we are facing a critical funding gap in Lebanon,” said Ivo Freijsen, UNHCR Representative in Lebanon. “This contribution will help us provide lifesaving hospital care for refugees, who are now more vulnerable than ever,” he added.
Since the onset of the Syria crisis, Italy has been providing crucial support for Syrian refugees in Lebanon, supporting UNHCR operations in the country with over EUR 30 million since 2012.
“Italy’s long-standing support for UNHCR’s programme is implemented through the existing health care infrastructure. It is therefore strengthening the Lebanese health system and ensuring continuity of services that benefit both refugee and host communities” Mrs Nicoletta Bombardiere, Ambassador of Italy to Lebanon said.
“The contribution will ensure access to a comprehensive healthcare package for the most vulnerable population in Lebanon, by establishing referral mechanisms to reduce avoidable deaths by ensuring a social safety net for coverage of life-threatening health emergencies” Mrs Alessandra Piermattei, Head of the Beirut office of the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation – AICS, added.
In 2024, UNHCR aims to support access to lifesaving hospital care through some 56,690 referrals, over 5,660 of which will be funded thanks to the vital support of the Government and People of Italy.
UNHCR continues to work closely with the Government of Lebanon and national and international partners to provide essential support for vulnerable Lebanese communities amidst the challenging situation in the country.
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