In partnership with the Arab Forum for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, we implemented a specialized study on the experience of persons with disabilities in Lebanon during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the extent of their access to social protection programs and services during 2022.

Project Objectives and Methodology

The study aimed to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in the context of the multi-faceted crisis, especially regarding social protection programs (particularly those being restructured with support from the World Bank). The methodology relied on collecting qualitative and in-depth data, including:

• Implementation of focus groups with families of children with disabilities and representatives of institutions and organizations of persons with disabilities.
• Conducting individual interviews with key actors such as UNICEF, the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Ministry of Social Affairs, and specialized organizations (e.g., the Youth Association of the Blind and the Self-Advocacy Association).

Key Outcomes

• Lebanon Case Study: A detailed case study on the situation in Lebanon was prepared and presented as part of a broader regional study covering Yemen, Tunisia, and Morocco, to highlight gaps in justice, equality, and inclusion within protection programs.
• Virtual Review Session: A virtual session was held with the participation of 28 participants from various organizations, aimed at reviewing ongoing social protection programs to assess the extent to which they integrate the requirements and rights of persons with disabilities, in line with the principles of diversity and equity.

This work is an essential step towards advocacy and restructuring social protection programs to ensure they are inclusive and responsive to the needs of persons with disabilities in Lebanon, especially in times of crisis.