Palestinian refugee camps were formed in Lebanon when Palestinians fled to the country due to the Nakba in 1948. This relationship is characterized by complexity due to several factors, including political tension, social and economic problems such as limited employment opportunities for refugees, pressure on resources like infrastructure and healthcare, and security impacts.
The relationship between Lebanon and Palestinian refugees is affected by the presence of Palestinian militias, as tensions between the Lebanese authorities and the camps rise when Palestinian factions become involved in Lebanon’s internal affairs. This tension increases the suffering of Palestinian refugees and makes it more difficult to achieve a lasting and sustainable solution to their situation in Lebanon.
The impact of social and economic marginalization on Palestinian refugees in Lebanon
Palestinian refugees in Lebanon constitute one of the socially and economically marginalized groups, as they face great difficulties in obtaining job opportunities and accessing basic services, which leads to exacerbation of social and economic tensions in Lebanese society.
Difficulties in obtaining job opportunities
Job opportunities are one of the most prominent challenges facing Palestinian refugees in Lebanon. Lebanese law prevents Palestinians from working in more than 70 basic professions, and they often find themselves oppressed from informal and low-paid jobs, leaving them unable to provide for their basic needs and live in dignity. This marginalization in the labor market leads to a loss of self-confidence and a feeling of economic helplessness.
• Legal restrictions: Lebanese law imposes restrictions on Palestinian refugees in various fields such as work, reducing their chances of obtaining regular jobs.
• Discrimination and bias: Palestinian refugees may face discrimination and bias in the labor market, as they are considered less favored by employers.
• Lack of economic opportunities: Lebanon suffers from a lack of economic opportunities in general, making it more difficult for Palestinian refugees to compete in the labor market.
Deficiencies in basic services
In addition to difficulties in accessing employment opportunities, Palestinian refugees in Lebanon face deficiencies in basic services such as education, health care, and housing. Government schools and hospitals are often overcrowded and under-resourced, making access very difficult for Palestinians. In addition to the enormous pressure on UNRWA, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian refugees, a large portion of its basic funding is withheld as an attempt to impose political conditions on the Palestinian refugee community.
Exacerbation of social tensions
These harsh conditions faced by Palestinian refugees in Lebanon exacerbate social tensions in Lebanese society. The lack of job opportunities and adequate provision of basic services generates a feeling of injustice and resentment among refugees and the Lebanese population, which may sometimes lead to violent incidents or escalation of social tensions.
Resources
Immediate action needed: There is no doubt that these harsh conditions require immediate action to improve the conditions of Palestinian refugees in Lebanon. The Lebanese government and international organizations must work together to provide job opportunities and basic services, ensure a decent life for Palestinians and contribute to achieving social justice in Lebanese society.
The influence of Palestinian factions on Lebanese politics and their relationship with Palestinian refugees
Palestinian factions are a presence that cannot be ignored in the Lebanese political arena, as they have played a prominent role in Lebanon’s internal and foreign policy. The presence of these militias is closely linked to the presence of Palestinian refugees in Lebanon, which increases tensions and challenges facing the country.
Internal influence
Palestinian factions are an integral part of Lebanese internal politics, as they have significant influence in political and security decisions. The presence of these militias has sometimes disrupted internal stability, especially during periods that witnessed an escalation in tensions between them and the Lebanese authorities.
External influence
Externally, Palestinian factions affect Lebanon’s relations with neighboring countries and the international community. It is considered part of the Palestinian regional landscape, which makes any development in relations between it and Lebanon be absorbed into the country’s foreign relations.
The impact of the presence of Palestinian refugees on Lebanese resources
Pressure on environmental resources
Natural resources such as water and electricity are greatly affected by the presence of a large population, including Palestinian refugees. Increased consumption of water and electricity puts additional pressure on infrastructure and increases production and distribution costs.
Pressure on health services
The presence of a large Palestinian refugee population also affects health services in Lebanon. An increase in demand for medical services can lead to overcrowding in hospitals and reduce the quality of health care provided to everyone.
Pressure on education
In addition, the presence of a large Palestinian refugee population puts pressure on Lebanon’s education system. An increase in demand for schools can lead to overcrowded classrooms and reduce the quality of education provided.
Possible solutions
To overcome these challenges, the Lebanese government must work in cooperation with humanitarian organizations and the international community to develop comprehensive solutions.
Among these solutions:
1. Improving infrastructure: The Lebanese government must invest in improving infrastructure to meet the needs of the population, including Palestinian refugees.
2. Expanding health and educational services: Investment in health and education services must be increased to meet the growing demand for them.
3. International cooperation: The international community must provide financial and technical support to Lebanon to help it deal with the challenges of the presence of Palestinian refugees.
The Lebanese government and the international community must work together to develop comprehensive strategies to ease pressure on Lebanese resources and improve the conditions of Palestinian refugees and local communities alike.
Bassam JAMIL – Wavel Camp – Lebanon
Reviewed and edited by Dan ROMEO