3 May 2024: During a meeting in Beirut with Ursula von der Leyen, head of the European Commission, and Nikos Christodoulides, president of the Greek Cypriot Administration, caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati highlighted the pressing issue of Syrian refugees in Lebanon. Mikati emphasized that Syrian refugees now make up approximately one-third of Lebanon’s population, calling for swift action to prevent Lebanon from becoming an alternative homeland for displaced Syrians.
Expressing concern over the strain this situation places on Lebanon, Mikati urged the European Union to prioritize finding a radical and swift solution to the refugee crisis. He emphasized the need for concerted efforts to encourage the safe return of Syrian refugees to their homeland, stressing the importance of ensuring Syria becomes a secure environment for its citizens.
Lebanon’s plea for assistance comes amidst a severe economic crisis that has plagued the nation since 2019, labeled by the World Bank as one of the worst in modern times. Despite these challenges, Lebanon continues to host a staggering 1.8 million Syrian refugees, with approximately 900,000 registered with the UN refugee agency (UNHCR).
In a previous address on April 22, Prime Minister Mikati had called on the EU to provide support to Lebanon in facilitating the repatriation of displaced Syrians. As Lebanon grapples with economic hardships compounded by the refugee crisis, international collaboration remains crucial in addressing this complex humanitarian issue.
