In line with government policy, no formal refugee camps were established in Lebanon in response to the influx of Syrian refugees. Consequently, close to 900,000 registered Syrian refugees live in cities, villages or spontaneously set-up tented settlements throughout the country.
The multiple crises facing Lebanon in recent years have resulted in a dramatic increase in poverty across all populations. This has put an additional strain on the ability of already vulnerable populations to access basic services and affordable housing.
In major cities across the country, significant proportions of vulnerable Lebanese and Syrian refugees live together in dense and poor urban neighbourhoods. Difficulties in accessing secure, adequate and affordable housing are shared by both Lebanese and non-Lebanese low-income groups. This is further exacerbated by the socio-economic and financial crises and the subsequent cuts in subsidies on fuel, food and medicine, which in turn has had a significant impact on the rental market, leading to a radical increase in rent prices for all populations.
According to the Vulnerability Assessment of Syrian Refugees (VASyR), in 2022 rent increased by 176% compared to 2021. A total of 58% of Syrian refugee families are living in shelters that are dangerous, substandard or overcrowded.
UNHCR and partners prioritize improving shelter conditions of vulnerable families (both refugees and Lebanese) living in the most insecure dwellings which are hazardous for their health and safety. The response includes:
- Rehabilitating unfinished homes in urban and rural areas;
- Repairing residential buildings in bad condition and lacking sanitation facilities;
- Maintaining collective shelters;
- Providing temporary shelter material in line with the Government’s guidelines to refugees living in informal tented settlements; and
- Site improvement and fire prevention.
Check our latest Shelter Fact Sheet in English.