Lebanon hosts many Syrian refugees amid socio-economic crisis; EU aid boosts border control, increasing smuggling demand.
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The article discusses the complex situation in Lebanon, which hosts a large population of Syrian refugees despite never ratifying the UN Refugee Convention. While public sentiment towards refugees has hardened due to economic crises and media narratives, some Syrians remain integrated or wish to return home. Increased socio-economic hardship is driving more people, including Syrians, Lebanese, and Palestinians, to attempt dangerous journeys to Europe via Cyprus. European monitoring of Lebanon’s borders is increasing, with various countries providing support to the Lebanese military and border guards. The EU has pledged significant financial aid to Lebanon under a migration pact, but critics argue this funding primarily supports border control and security forces rather than addressing the root causes of displacement or ensuring human rights protection. Furthermore, some experts contend that increased border surveillance inadvertently fuels the demand for smugglers. Despite political rhetoric, deportations from Lebanon have risen significantly, especially following major events in Syria. New arrivals, particularly Alawites fleeing persecution in Syria, face marginalization and lack support from both Lebanese and European entities.
