CARE welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire in Lebanon. We call on all parties to the conflict to prevent any further escalation of violence, adhere to international humanitarian law, and continue efforts to build on this critical step towards a sustained ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The safety, protection, and well-being of all people in the region must remain a priority. CARE also continues to call for an immediate and sustained ceasefire in Gaza.
Michael Adams, Country Director of CARE International in Lebanon, said:
“Ending the violence is vital to halt the devastating loss of civilian lives and address the massive humanitarian needs in Lebanon. The destruction of civilian infrastructure, such as hospitals and water systems, and the disruption of education will have a lasting impact, including for women and girls. We urge the international community to scale up humanitarian funding, fully support the UN’s flash appeal, and provide direct funding and support to local organisations, including women-led organisations, many of which have been at the forefront of responding to this crisis. In addition to Akkar, Mount Lebanon and Beirut areas, humanitarians must have full, safe and unimpeded access to assist communities in Southern Lebanon and the Beqaa valley.”
Even before this conflict, Lebanon was grappling with a severe socio-economic crisis, and hosting the highest number of refugees per capita in the world. The recent escalation killed more than 3,500 people and created a mass displacement crisis, uprooting nearly a million people. Dozens of villages in southern Lebanon have been destroyed and livelihoods shattered. Women and girls who have been forced to flee their homes face increased risks of gender-based violence.
To promote peace and recovery, it is crucial to address trauma and rebuild the resilience of a population already enduring decades of socio-economic hardship and the fallout of previous conflict. Donors must invest in early recovery efforts, mental health and psychosocial support services, and targeted interventions to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.
ENDS
For media enquiries contact Briony FitzGerald on 0404 117 927
About CARE Australia
CARE Australia supports women around the globe to save lives, defeat poverty and achieve social justice. We work in partnership with local communities to provide equal opportunities for women that they have long been denied: the ability to earn an income, gain access to their fair share of resources, to lead and participate in decisions that affect their lives, and to be able to withstand the increasing impacts of climate disasters and other crises. www.care.org.au
