Situation Analysis of Youth in Lebanon Affected by the Syrian Crisis

Assessments have shown that this massive influx of refugees from Syria has affected the neighbouring countries on various levels; economic, social, political and as regards security. In Lebanon alone, the registered number of Syrian refugees reached 1,030,413 persons by end-May 2014, with youth aged 15-24 years constituting approximately 16 per cent.

The impact of the humanitarian situation on affected adolescents and youth in Lebanon has not been documented or broadly addressed due to limitations on funding and capacity.
In a humanitarian context, both children - particularly unaccompanied children or those separated from their families - as well as adolescents and youth, especially young females, are among the most vulnerable. It is well documented globally, including in Lebanon, that humanitarian responses to a great extent focus on children below age 18 years, while adolescents and youth, however, are considered to be more resilient and, thus, of a lesser priority.

This study illustrates how youth are greatly affected by the crisis in various ways, especially when displaced from their homes. Challenges include separation from social and community networks, including family; discontinuation of formal and non-formal education; loss of livelihood; lack of, or weakened security and protection mechanisms and networks; disruption of, or decreased access to health services; adaptation to a new environment; and increase in daily free time - all of which may pose a risk for youth in the long run.

Situation Analysis of Youth in Lebanon Affected by the Syrian Crisis 2014 is the product of a seven-month collaboration between the research team, concerned international organisations and civil society organisations and members, on the one hand; and Syrian refugees, especially refugee youth, as well as Lebanese host communities, including youth, on the other.