European Union approves €505 million aid package to support Lebanon
Brussels, 23 Sep (KUNA) -- The European Commission announced on Wednesday the approval of a financial support package for Lebanon worth 505 million euros for 2026 and 2027, aimed at supporting economic stability and recovery, and strengthening reforms, security, and basic services.
In a statement, the Commission said the funding represents the second tranche of the one-billion-euro European support package announced by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during her visit to Beirut in May 2024. It noted that the new package focuses on three main areas: reforms and economic recovery; security and support for the most vulnerable groups, civil society, and culture.
The Commission explained that the support will include maintaining education, health, social protection, and water services, alongside providing cash assistance to vulnerable households and persons with disabilities, and strengthening primary healthcare. It will also support sustainable solutions for Syrian refugees, including safe, voluntary, and dignified return.
It added that the funding will also be allocated to support Lebanon’s reform agenda, particularly in the justice sector, regulatory and oversight bodies, parliament, and human rights, as well as enhancing the security sector, border management, the resilience of the private sector, and economic recovery in conflict-affected areas.
The Commission noted that the package includes support for civil society organizations working on women’s rights, youth, minorities, and persons with disabilities, as well as initiatives to promote democratic participation, transparency, and anti-corruption efforts, in addition to supporting social cohesion and the protection of Lebanon’s cultural heritage.
European Commissioner for Mediterranean Affairs Dubravka Šuica announced the funding in New York on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
The Commission stated that the escalation in the region since March has led to the displacement of more than one million people within Lebanon. It confirmed that the European Union provided 100 million euros in humanitarian aid to Lebanon in 2026 to deliver emergency healthcare, shelter, basic needs, protection, and education.
It reported that since 2011, the EU has provided over 5.3 billion euros in aid to Lebanon, including support for the most vulnerable Lebanese and Syrian refugees. The Commission noted that the implementation of this aid is carried out in cooperation with Lebanese authorities, UN agencies, international organizations, and civil society partners.
(End) ARN / TMA
