Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.10, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Basmeh & Zeitooneh Relief & Development ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blogs](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/blog/) - Explore insightful articles and thought-provoking discussions on various topics. Stay updated with our latest blog posts.. - [Protracted Displacement Economies: Breaking Barriers Through Music](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/protracted-displacement-economies-breaking-barriers-through-music/) - Breaking Barriers Through Music: The Inspiring Story of Abed The story of a refugee is often a heart-wrenching tale filled with trauma, loss, and hardship, yet it can also be a story of resilience and hope, as exemplified by Abed. Abed was raised in a peaceful town, in a small town called Bab Drayeb, but - [Safa’s First Candle Marked the Start of a Brighter Future](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/safas-first-candle-marked-the-start-of-a-brighter-future/) - Safa, a 47-year-old displaced woman born and raised in Lebanon’s Beqaa Valley, is a mother of three. For two years, she barely left her home, weighed down by depression, especially after her 20-year-old daughter’s health began to decline. She never imagined that joining the "Candle of Hope" initiative within the "Fostering Refugee Leadership" project, under - [Resilience in Action: Refugee-Led Organizations Respond to Crisis in Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/resilience-in-action-refugee-led-organizations-respond-to-crisis-in-lebanon/) - Introduction The 2024 Israeli military aggression on Lebanon triggered one of the most severe humanitarian crises in the country’s recent history, displacing over 1.2 million people (UNHCR, 2024). Decades of political dysfunction, economic decline, and chronic underinvestment in public services had already eroded the capacity of national institutions. Consequently, the Lebanese state was unable to - [Hope in Every Step: Life Inside Shatila Camp](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/hope-in-every-step-life-inside-shatila-camp/) - You’ve probably heard about the refugee crisis on the news. But the view from inside the camp tells a different story. It hasn't been my first time in Shatila, and it gets me in the same feelings every time. Seeing the living conditions of people who were displaced because of conflict is sad. - [Patience is the Key: A Mother’s Will](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/patience-is-the-key-a-mothers-will/) - Noor* began her story with a heavy voice. She shared it, holding back tears, “I was in nothingness… half-alive”. A widow and a 44-year-old mother of six, Nour* lost her husband two years ago. Since then, her life has turned upside down. She used to work in cleaning to support her family, but after - [Safe Spaces in Shatila Restoring Confidence for Women](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/safe-spaces-in-shatila-restoring-confidence-for-women/) - Protection sessions continue at Basmeh & Zeitooneh’s Shatila center, where mothers and young women of different ages gather in a safe and stimulating environment that encourages learning, communication, expression, and interaction. In these sessions, participants receive educational and knowledge-based lessons that help them build new skills, contributing to an improved quality of life and - [Basmeh & Zeitooneh Calls for Sustained Protection of Civilians and Continued Global Attention Amid Temporary Ceasefire in Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/basmeh-zeitooneh-calls-for-sustained-protection-of-civilians-and-continued-global-attention-amid-temporary-ceasefire-in-lebanon/) - Beirut, Lebanon - 17 April 2026 Basmeh & Zeitooneh welcomes the current temporary ceasefire as a critical moment of reduced hostilities. However, the organization stresses that this pause in violence remains fragile and uncertain, with no clear indication of how long it will hold or what will happen after the deadline. While the ceasefire - [Statement: Protect Civilians and Humanitarian Front-Liners in Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/statement-protect-civilians-and-humanitarian-front-liners-in-lebanon/) - Today, things are not business as usual in Lebanon. Within the first 24 hours of the escalation, an estimated 29,000 people were newly displaced, adding to tens of thousands already displaced across Lebanon before the latest hostilities. As the situation evolved, humanitarian coordination reports indicated that approximately 81,000 people had been newly displaced by - [Empowering Health Workers to Strengthen Protection](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/empowering-health-workers-to-strengthen-protection/) - As part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness and empower community members, and within the framework of “Girls’ Empowerment” Project in Shatila and Boroj Al-Barajneh camps, the Protection team at Basmeh & Zeitooneh organized a conference attended by nurses, pharmacists, and midwives. This event aimed to introduce the work of the Protection Program and - [Proud Milestone for Basmeh & Zeitooneh](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/proud-milestone-for-basmeh-zeitooneh/) - We were honored at the IFDO with a prestigious award in December 2025, for our submitted project "My Career My Choice". This recognition reflects the project’s impactful approach, its innovation, and our dedication to supporting youth in shaping their professional futures. We are also delighted to share that Basmeh & Zeitooneh has received official membership - [Empowering Young Married Women to Deal with Stress](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/empowering-young-married-women-to-deal-with-stress/) - At Basmeh & Zeitooneh's Center in Shatila Camp, the Protection Team continues its efforts to support and empower women through awareness and psychosocial support sessions that address various life and social topics. These sessions aim to enhance women’s awareness and open new horizons for them to deal with problems and daily pressures in - [“Shawke w Sekkine”: Meals Made with Love and Courage](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/shawke-w-sekkine-meals-made-with-love-and-courage/) - In one of the neighborhoods of Tripoli, where daily life is filled with challenges, Dareen stands with determination in the kitchen of her modest, cozy shop, preparing homemade dishes seasoned with love. Her journey hasn’t been easy, but it serves as a shining example of perseverance and the ability to turn difficult circumstances into - [The Resilient Craft of Copper Artisan Adnan Al-Sankari](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/the-resilient-craft-of-copper-artisan-adnan-al-sankari/) - In the old city of Tripoli, inside a small, traditional shop, Adnan Al-Sankari, a 72-year-old man, sits hunched over a piece of copper, rhythmically hammering it as if playing a conventional musical piece. Life circumstances prevented Adnan from completing his education, but he inherited the art of copper engraving and metalwork from his - [Empowering Women Through Awareness and Support](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/empowering-women-through-awareness-and-support/) - At Basmeh & Zeitooneh, the Protection Program aims to create safe, empowering spaces for women and girls. These spaces provide psychosocial and emotional support while increasing awareness of health, rights, and dignity. This program is a cornerstone of our broader community empowerment work, reaching mothers, grandmothers, girls married at a young age (15–21 years old), - [When dignity is no longer funded, communities suffer](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/when-dignity-is-no-longer-funded-communities-suffer/) - The funding cuts imposed to overseas development aid by the U.S. government have significantly undermined critical protection programs designed to support vulnerable populations, leaving deep and lasting consequences on the community's well-being and human dignity. We at Basmeh & Zeitooneh (B&Z), like many other Refugee-led Organizations (RLOs) globally, have not been spared from their effects. ## Pages - [Home](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/) - A constructive society that lives with dignity. Learn More about Basmeh & Zeitooneh.. - [The Studio](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/studio/) - The Studio, formerly known as Shatila Studio, stands today as a testament to resilience, empowerment, and creative excellence. Learn more... - [Pioneers Innovation](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/pioneer/) - Pioneers Innovation is reshaping humanitarian work across the MENA region by integrating technology, innovation...Discover more - [Emergencies](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/what-we-do/emergencies/) - Stay informed with the latest emergencies. Get real-time updates, critical insights, and detailed analyses. Learn more... - [Support](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/give/) - Basmeh & Zeitooneh encourages online donations, however small the amount. Your online donations are important. Give... - [Who We Are](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/about/) - Basmeh & Zeitooneh started as a grassroots organization when a group of volunteers in Lebanon, driven by the plight of Syrian refugees. began a small relief... - [Join Us](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/join-us/) - Become an ambassador, alumni, or volunteer! Join our mission to make a difference in the lives of many people who have been displaced, traumatized, and abused. - [Learning Centers](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/where-we-work/learning-centers/) - Explore our Learning Centers in Shatila, Nabaa, and Bekaa, providing interactive education, community support, and livelihood programs. - [Community Centers](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/where-we-work/community-centers/) - Discover our diverse community centers at Shatila, Nabaa, Bekaa, Tripoli and Akkar. Learn more... - [Newsletters](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/newsletters/) - Join our mailing list! Subscribe to our newsletter and stay informed with our latest updates, news and insights. - [Contact Us](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/contact/) - Contact Us for General Inquiries and Complaints:+961 76 939 238 or contact@basmeh-zeitooneh.org, for Granting and Partnering... - [Careers](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/careers/) - Careers Browse Job Opportunities Keywords Location Remote positions only Consultant Contractual Full Time Intern Part Time Temporary Volunteer Your browser does not support JavaScript, or it is disabled. JavaScript must be enabled in order to view listings. Load more listings - [Where We Work](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/where-we-work/) - Basmeh and Zeitooneh is a community-based organization operating six centers in Lebanon. These centers serve as hubs where individuals can directly... - [Programs](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/what-we-do/programs/) - Explore our diverse programs designed to make a lasting impact. From Education, Food Security & Livelihood, Protection, Social Stability and Advocacy & Research. - [What We Do](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/what-we-do/) - Basmeh & Zeitooneh has grown into one of the largest and most established refugee-led relief organizations, responding to the acute needs of both... - [Terms and Conditions](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/terms-and-conditions/) - These Terms and conditions apply to this website and to the transactions related to our products and services. Learn more... - [Media Center](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/media-center/) - Discover the essential branding guidelines for media coverage. Your quick guide to our visual identity... - [Privacy Policy](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/privacy-policy/) - This Privacy Policy describes Our policies and procedures on the collection, use and disclosure of Your information when You use the Service and tells You - [Cookie Policy (EU)](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/cookie-policy-eu/) - Our website uses cookies and other related technologies (for convenience all technologies are referred to as "cookies")... - [Accessibility statement](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/accessibility-statement/) - Accessibility Statement for https://www.basmeh-zeitooneh.org/ Basmeh & Zeitooneh is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for people with disabilities. We are continually improving the user experience for everyone and applying the relevant accessibility standards. Conformance status The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) defines requirements for designers and developers to improve accessibility for people with disabilities. It defines ## Reports - [The Impact of Ongoing War On Agriculture in Lebanon: Snapshot 2024-2026](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/the-impact-of-ongoing-war-on-agriculture-in-lebanon-snapshot-2024-2026/) - Lebanon’s agricultural sector is facing mounting pressure as ongoing conflict, displacement, and environmental damage continue to disrupt production and rural livelihoods. Beyond immediate destruction, the crisis is accelerating land abandonment, weakening food systems, and deepening economic insecurity in communities heavily dependent on agriculture. This brief examines how repeated escalations since 2024 – and the intensification - [Lebanon | Situation Brief (1): Refugees During the Latest War in Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/flash-brief-refugees-during-the-latest-war-in-lebanon/) - The latest escalation in Lebanon has triggered rapid displacement across the country, with tens of thousands of people forced to flee their homes in just days. While humanitarian attention has largely focused on internal displacement among Lebanese communities, another dimension of the crisis remains insufficiently documented: the situation of refugee populations living in the affected - [A Sword of Damocles](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/a-sword-of-damocles/) - This report aims to give a voice to those directly and indirectly affected by compulsory military service systems in contexts of conflict and displacement. Military conscription remains a major concern for many individuals living in affected regions, as well as for those who are unable to return to their country of origin after displacement. It - [Executive Summary: Impact of the War on Children’s Education in Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/executive-summary-impact-of-the-war-on-childrens-education-in-lebanon/) - The escalation of conflict in Lebanon is driving a severe education crisis, disrupting learning for hundreds of thousands of children and pushing an already fragile system closer to collapse. With schools repurposed as shelters, widespread displacement, and deepening inequality, access to education is increasingly determined by circumstance rather than right. This brief highlights how layered - [Lebanon | Evolving Realities: Refugee Living Conditions, Needs, and Future Perspectives (2025)](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/evolving-realities-refugees-living-conditions-needs-and-prospects-for-return-in-lebanon-2025/) - This B&Z's comparative report brings together the results of all three rounds of our 2025 longitudinal research. The comparison is clear: Pressure in Lebanon does not lead to a return. Refugees’ decisions are shaped almost entirely by conditions in their areas of origin: insecurity, militia control, economic collapse, and destroyed housing. Across the 3 rounds: - [Lebanon | Evolving Return Intentions Among Refugees in Lebanon – Round 3 Findings](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/evolving-return-intentions-among-refugees-in-lebanon-round-3-findings/) - This third round continues our longitudinal study following the same group of refugees across Beqaa Valley, Beirut (Nabaa), and Tripoli. Over one year, the research has tracked how changing economic, social, and security conditions shape return intentions and perceptions of safety. Conducted between September and October 2025, this round highlights the persistence of uncertainty and - [Lebanon | Evolving Return Intentions Among Refugees in Lebanon - Round 2 Findings](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/second-round-findings-evolving-return-intentions-among-refugees-in-lebanon-april-may-2025/) - This longitudinal study tracked the evolving attitudes of 150 refugees toward return over the course of one year, across three Lebanese regions: Beqaa Valley, Beirut (Nabaa), and Tripoli, selected for their demographic diversity and proximity to shifting geopolitical tensions. Using a panel approach, 50 participants were followed in each region to assess how personal and - [Governance Transitions: Evidence from Four Regions](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/governance-transitions-evidence-from-four-regions/) - An initial study by Basmeh & Zeitooneh’s Research Team on governance experiences across multiple regional contexts, documenting administrative practices and community-based structures. - [Study | Displacement & Disillusionment: Documenting Social Tension and the Reframing of Return Dynamics in Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/study-displacement-disillusionment-documenting-social-tension-and-the-reframing-of-return-dynamics-in-lebanon/) - Focusing on everyday realities in mixed-population areas, the research examines the interactions between three groups living under shared pressure: economically vulnerable Lebanese host communities, long-settled refugees, and newly arrived displaced individuals. The study draws on focus group discussions and key informant interviews, using a participatory and gender-sensitive approach, with findings further validated through community workshops - [Fleeing and Returning Amid Insecurity: A Multidimensional Assessment of Conditions in Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/fleeing-and-returning-amid-insecurity-a-multidimensional-assessment-of-conditions-in-lebanon/) - One year since the fall of the Assad regime. On this anniversary, Refugee Protection Watch releases its new report: Fleeing and Returning Amid Insecurity: A Multidimensional Assessment of Conditions in Lebanon and Areas of Origin. Our findings reveal a stark reality: Returns remain neither voluntary nor safe. Refugees continue to face coercive pressures in - [Living on the Edge: Displaced Women Navigating Uncertainty in Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/living-on-the-edge-women-navigating-uncertainty-in-lebanon/) - This study captures the voices of displaced women in Lebanon as they weigh survival against the prospect of return. It reveals how daily struggles with housing, work, safety, and education shape decisions and how displacement has transformed women’s roles and agency. Far from abstract policy debates, return is shown as a deeply personal calculation, tied - [RPW 3RD ANNUAL REPORT | 2022 : Endless Refuge and Unsafe Homecoming](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/rpw-3rd-annual-report-2022-endless-refuge-and-unsafe-homecoming/) - The refugee crisis persists as the world's second-largest, with 6.8 million refugees residing outside Sayria's borders. Lebanon, a neighboring country, has been disproportionately impacted, facing economic, health, and political crises. Conditions for a safe return to home country are absent, yet there is growing pressure on refugees to go back. Harmful practices, like pushbacks and - [Lebanon | Situation Brief (2): Field Updates from the War on Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/situation-brief-field-updates-from-the-war-on-lebanon/) - Lebanon Situation Brief - 12 March 2026 As the escalation in Lebanon continues, the humanitarian impact is rapidly intensifying. More than 700,000 people are now displaced across the country, many arriving at shelters with very limited belongings and facing urgent needs for food, basic items, and safe accommodation. Our teams at Basmeh & Zeitooneh are - [Get to Know Basmeh & Zeitooneh](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/get-to-know-basmeh-zeitooneh/) - [Refugees in a World Without Aid](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/refugees-in-a-world-without-aid/) - Basmeh & Zeitooneh is honored to be featured in the book "Refugees in a World Without Aid", published by The Open Press University of Sussex. Our work is highlighted in detail from pages 86 to 112. Drawing on research from the international comparative project Protracted Displacement Economies, this book demonstrates the need for a 'more - [Strengthening Social Protection Systems in Lebanon: Challenges and Responses to the 2024 Aggression](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/strengthening-social-protection-systems-in-lebanon-challenges-and-responses-to-the-2024-aggression-2/) - [Businesses struggle to build back from the Beirut blast](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/businesses-struggle-to-build-back-from-the-beirut-blast/) - A year on from the blast that devastated large parts of Beirut, the ILO is working to help small businesses across the Lebanese capital affected by the explosion. Many were already struggling to survive due to COVID-19 anti-infection measures and the ongoing economic and political crisis in the country. - [Understanding RLO Impact](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/understanding-rlo-impact/) - A metasynthesis of five external impact evaluations covering programs run by Refugee-Led Organizations (RLOs) - [2023 RRLI Impact Report](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/2023-rrli-impact-report/) - This report presents the community, systemic and ways-of-working impacts of the Resourcing Refugee Leadership Initiative (RRLI) during 2022-2023. - [Protracted Displacement Economies in Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/protracted-displacement-economies-in-lebanon/) - The Protracted Displacement Economy (PDE) research project investigates the economic dynamics of displaced populations in five countries. Focused on bridging humanitarian and sustainable approaches, it explores gendered economies in caregiving, expenditure, debt, savings, and mutual assistance. The Lebanon findings reveal challenges shared between host and refugee populations, emphasizing financial and non-financial transactions' significance. The study - [Strengthening Social Protection Systems in Lebanon: Challenges and Responses to the 2024 Aggression](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/reports/strengthening-social-protection-systems-in-lebanon-challenges-and-responses-to-the-2024-aggression/) - The recent Israeli aggression in September 2024 has worsened Lebanon's humanitarian crisis, affecting citizens and Syrian refugees already facing severe food insecurity and economic instability. Lebanon's social protection system, largely non-inclusive, struggles to meet growing needs, with limited programs like the National Disability Allowance and inadequate cash transfers for displaced families. This paper examines social ## Policies - [Safeguarding Policy](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/policies/safeguarding-policy/) - [Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA)](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/policies/protection-from-sexual-exploitation-and-abuse-psea/) - [Data Protection Policy](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/policies/data-protection-policy/) - [Code of Conduct](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/policies/code-of-conduct/) - [Code of Conduct for Volunteers & Visitors](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/policies/code-of-conduct-volunteers-visitors/) - [Child Protection Policy](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/policies/child-protection-policy/) ## Fundraising Campaigns - [Education](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/fundraising-campaign/education/) - The journey of education for refugee children begins every year with struggles in accessibility, and they need just a little more support to keep them on this path. - [Solidarity with Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/fundraising-campaign/solidarity-with-lebanon/) - The recent escalation in hostilities has had a devastating impact on South Lebanon and the Bekaa region. According to the Lebanese Ministry of Health and the United Nations, the lives of nearly 500 civilians were lost, over 1,500 people were injured, and more than 113,000 were displaced from their homes. The situation is worsening, with - [Ramadan Campaign](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/fundraising-campaign/ramadan-campaign/) - Share Ramadan Blessings Ramadan is not just a time of fasting; it is a time of giving, of coming together as a community, and of uplifting those in need. During this sacred month, families around the world gather to break their fasts, sharing meals and strengthening bonds. However, for many families living under difficult circumstances, ## Stories - [Growing Confidence from the Land](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/growing-confidence-from-the-land/) - At 45 years old, Alya, a woman from Tall Abbas, Akkar, has spent the past eight years working in agriculture. For her, the land is more than a place of work. It is a source of comfort, dignity, income, and pride. "I feel at peace when I am on the land," she says. "When the - [From the Land, She Builds Her Future](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/from-the-land-she-builds-her-future/) - In Tall Abbas, Akkar, Aisha’s day often begins with the land. At 35 years old, and after the loss of her husband, agriculture became more than a way to earn an income. It became the source of strength that helps her stand on her own feet, provide for her children, and hold on to hope. - [Yusra Builds Confidence Through Agriculture](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/yusra-builds-confidence-through-agriculture/) - In the fields of Akkar, Yusra, a 33-year-old woman from Tal Abbas, has spent more than a decade working the land she loves. For nearly 12 years, farming was part of her daily life, even when those around her doubted that agriculture could still offer a future. Her husband had gradually lost interest in working - [Nesreen’s Story (Alias): A Journey of Loss, Resilience, and Hope Amidst War](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/nesreens-story-alias-a-journey-of-loss-resilience-and-hope-amidst-war/) - Nesreen’s life has been shattered by the brutal realities of war, a journey marked by endless displacement, overwhelming loss, and an unyielding search for a sense of stability. Her story unfolds with quiet reflection, yet the weight of her experiences echoes deeply in every word she speaks. "I lived through years of conflict,” Nesreen begins, - [Threads of Empowerment: Sanaa's Journey from Darkness to Artistry](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/threads-of-empowerment-sanaas-journey-from-darkness-to-artistry/) - Sanaa, a 20-year-old from a region affected by conflict, has become a skilled artisan making a mark in the world of creative craftsmanship. Despite being blind since birth, Sanaa has cultivated her talents and developed skills in embroidery, straw tray weaving, knitting wool, and beadwork. Her personal journey is interwoven with her familial ties. As - [Stitching Hope: Empowering Resilience and Creativity in a Refugee's Journey](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/stitching-hope-empowering-resilience-and-creativity-in-a-refugees-journey/) - In the bustling city of Tripoli, North Lebanon, there lives a resilient woman named Elham. At the age of 35, she has already endured more challenges than most people experience in a lifetime. She arrived in Lebanon in 2011, seeking refuge from conflict that had disrupted her life and community. Elham is a mother of - [Sahar's Success Story](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/sahars-success-story/) - When Sahar, a 27-year-old mother, joined the literacy class in 2015 as part of the Vocational Training program, she was completely unable to read or write. Having attended the classes for over a year, Sahar has been able to learn the basics of Arabic literacy, and advance to a higher level. As a result of - [Maya's Success Story](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/mayas-success-story/) - Maya is a 7-year-old girl, suffering from many physical disabilities. No school or center would enroll her into their programs given her special needs. This led her to be an introvert, shy and unable to express her feelings. "She used to be very shy and confused whenever someone said her name. She didn't speak with - [Ahmad's Tailor Shop](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/ahmads-tailor-shop/) - Ahmed is a young man who came to Lebanon four years ago fleeing the war after being injured in the foot and having to use wheelchair. Back in home country, Ahmed was a tailor and a distinguished footballer, but all this changed after his injury. He came to Basmeh & Zeitooneh Center in Bar Elias, - [Displacement Under Fire: Jana's Journey from the South to Tripoli](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/displacement-under-fire-janas-journey-from-the-south-to-tripoli/) - Jana’s life has been a series of upheavals, each more heart-wrenching than the last. A 27-year-old mother of four, her story mirrors the resilience and despair of countless displaced families. Originally from a conflict-affected area, she has endured the horrors of war, the loss of her father, and multiple displacements, the most recent of which - [A New Chapter in Farming: Yasmine’s Success Story](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/a-new-chapter-in-farming-yasmines-success-story/) - Yasmine’s journey reflects resilience, determination, and the transformative power of knowledge. - [Aya’s Journey of Healing, Resilience, and Empowerment](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/ayas-journey-of-healing-resilience-and-empowerment/) - From the heart of the city of Qusayr, in her home city, Aya* (34 years old) came out laden with stories of war and the burden of loss. After losing her husband during the conflict in her homeland, she was forced to leave her homeland with her young daughter (11 years old), with a diagnosed - [Masa* Stood Up by Herself, for Her Children](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/masa-stood-up-by-herself-for-her-children/) - Masa* speaks in a quiet voice, carrying the weight of heavy years, "I had no one, I was facing everything alone. Just me and my children”. She is a displaced woman, born in 1985. She arrived in Lebanon in 2013, fleeing the war. Masa* had completed her degree in French literature back home, but after - [Wael’s Story: Finding Resilience in Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/waels-story-finding-resilience-in-lebanon/) - Under growing threats in his village in the southern countryside of his home village, Wael, along with his mother and six siblings, made the difficult decision to leave. “We took what little we could carry and crossed into Lebanon without knowing anyone there,” he recounted. The family arrived at a roadside camp and built a - ["We Are Not Okay": Voices from Displacement in Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/we-are-not-okay-voices-from-displacement-in-lebanon/) - Mariam*, 34, a mother of three, was forced to flee her home during the recent escalation in Lebanon. One of her children lives with thalassaemia, making access to healthcare critical. Before displacement, Mariam’s* family lived modestly but with dignity, relying on a limited income while managing her child’s condition. Their home represented safety, stability, - [Igniting the Flame of Learning: Jana's Inspiring Journey](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/igniting-the-flame-of-learning-janas-inspiring-journey/) - Jana is a bright and determined 10-year-old girl who lives with her mother, Arij, and four siblings in a small village nestled in the beautiful Bekaa Valley of Lebanon. Since their displacement to Lebanon in 2014, Jana’s family had faced the daily struggles of living in a conflict-ridden area and navigating through economic hardships. Both - [On Community-based Resilience in Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/on-community-based-resilience-in-lebanon/) - August 11, 2025 Ralph Haddad, Head of Advocacy, Basmeh & Zeitooneh for Relief and Development In conversation with Aya Habbab, Committee Coordinator at Basmeh & Zeitooneh for Relief and Development When we speak of resilience in humanitarian and development contexts, it often conjures images of communities quietly bearing hardship or passively adapting to crisis. - [Restoring Hope: Mona's Story of Loss, Strength, and Compassion](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/restoring-hope-monas-story-of-loss-strength-and-compassion/) - In the aftermath of destruction, it’s not uncommon to question everything that once felt secure. "Where am I?" These words echoed in the mind of our colleague Mona as she returned to her neighborhood after the bombing. The familiar streets, once vibrant and filled with life, had transformed into a haunting reminder of chaos and - [Moayad's Success Story](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/moayads-success-story/) - Moayad Shanbour is a 19-year-old Palestinian-Syrian living in Shatila refugee camp with his parents, aunt and two sisters. He and his family applied to the Shelter Renovation program, which would provide vital refurbishments to their home. During their visit to his house, the Shelter Renovation team found out that none of the Moayad’s family had - [Hanna's Success Story](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/hannas-success-story/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9Rf5A5PLBY - [Arafat's success story](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/arafats-success-story/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sj-cnV0il1I - [Sharihan's Success Story](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/sharihans-success-story/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ib8IBZ9qeGA&feature=youtu.be - [Halima's Success Story](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/halimas-success-story/) - Halima participated in a femLENS #photography workshop with the photographer Jekaterina Saveljeva at the Arts and Cultural Center in #Shatila in 2017. Afterwards, she heard of a #photo_competition on sustainable development with Changemaker, and with the help of her instructor, she participated and won the first prize Halima is a mother of 3 children and - [The Liberated Me (Hayat's Success Story)](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/the-liberated-me-hayats-success-story/) - Hayat is a 32-year-old woman who lives in Marj with her family – 17 people in the same house. She has 2 kids, and her husband is detained. She hated the place she lived in and the way her children and herself were treated She was registered at Basmeh & Zeitooneh’s community center to learn - [Linda's Journey: From Adversity to Entrepreneurial Success](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/lindas-journey-from-adversity-to-entrepreneurial-success/) - Linda, a 64-year-old woman from Zawtar El Charqiyeh, married in Bekaa, and a mother of four. She's a determined entrepreneur who embarked on her business journey due to challenging economic circumstances. Linda's story begins with the establishment of her production cooperative, a partnership she shared with her husband in the pantry food industry. Together, they - [Unlocking Potential: Munira's Path with 'My Career, My Choice'](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/unlocking-potential-muniras-path-with-my-career-my-choice/) - Meet Munira, a 29-year-old single resident of Beirut, Lebanon, where the pursuit of a livelihood often meets daunting challenges. In the face of a fiercely competitive job market and limited employability prospects, Munira's life took a transformative turn when she learned about the "My Career, My Choice" project through friends who had participated in it. - [Empowering Farmers: Mahmoud's Journey with the Agriforward Project](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/empowering-farmers-mahmouds-journey-with-the-agriforward-project/) - Mahmoud is a 70-year-old seasoned farmer in Tal Hayat, Akkar. For over three decades, Mahmoud has dedicated himself to agriculture, cultivating crops alongside his family since 1984. Married with three sons and three daughters, all actively involved in farming, Mahmoud's household is deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of their region. Their primary crops include - [Cultivating Skills: Fatima's Development with the Agriforward](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/cultivating-skills-fatimas-development-with-the-agriforward/) - Meet Fatima, a 46-year-old single resident of the Semmaqiyeh area in Akkar, Lebanon, where agriculture is not just a livelihood but a way of life. Fatima and her family, comprising her mother and four sisters, have long been involved in agriculture, cultivating crops like carrots and spinach alongside fellow community members. Fatima's journey with the - [Mohamad’s Story: Fleeing War in Lebanon’s South](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/stories/mohamads-story-fleeing-war-in-lebanons-south/) - “The new displacement brought new challenges”, Mohamad said, “I lost my job when we fled Nabatieh, and my employer still owes me $600. He blocked me when I tried to contact him”. Without an income, providing for his family has been nearly impossible. “If my children get sick, I can’t afford a doctor. I feel ## Publications - [The Role of Arts in Refugee-Led Humanitarian Response: Innovations from the 2024 Aggression on Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/publications/the-role-of-arts-in-refugee-led-humanitarian-response-innovations-from-the-2024-aggression-on-lebanon/) - The role of art in humanitarian crises, particularly within refugee-led organizations (RLOs), remains underexplored in the broader discourse on aid. However, during the 2024 aggression on Lebanon, RLOs revealed the transformative potential of art in addressing the complex challenges faced by displaced populations. Far from being ancillary, art became a cornerstone of emotional recovery, social - [Supporting Our Own: Employee Wellbeing Among Refugee Staff in RLOs](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/publications/supporting-our-own-employee-wellbeing-among-refugee-staff-in-rlos/) - During the 2024 Israeli aggression on Lebanon, Refugee-Led Organizations (RLOs) like Basmeh & Zeitooneh played a critical role in emergency response efforts. Yet behind their vital humanitarian work lies the untold story of the refugee employees themselves, who balance their professional duties with the personal toll of crises. Addressing the mental health and well-being of - [Building Inclusive Refugee Leadership: Women and Youth Leading Change](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/publications/building-inclusive-refugee-leadership-women-and-youth-leading-change/) - Historically dominated by older male figures, refugee leadership in Lebanon is transforming, with women and youth stepping into pivotal roles. This shift is more than symbolic; it addresses critical gaps in humanitarian aid and strengthens the resilience of refugee communities. "We are not just victims; we are agents of change," says Hanadi from DAMMA. Her - [Innovating Humanitarian Logistics: Leveraging Local Supply Chains](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/publications/innovating-humanitarian-logistics-leveraging-local-supply-chains/) - Traditional aid delivery systems often face significant challenges, including bureaucratic delays, logistical inefficiencies, and limited access to remote or underserved communities. "The traditional humanitarian aid system can be slow and disconnected from the realities on the ground," explains Fadi, CEO of Basmeh & Zeitooneh . Aid shipments frequently get delayed at borders, entangled in regulatory - [Frontliners: The Unsung Heroes of Refugee-Led Humanitarian Response](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/publications/frontliners-the-unsung-heroes-of-refugee-led-humanitarian-response/) - Frontline workers in Refugee-Led Organizations (RLOs) are the backbone of humanitarian aid, driven by resilience, empathy, and a deep commitment to their communities. Many of these individuals come from refugee backgrounds themselves, giving them unmatched insight into the struggles of displacement. For many, RLOs also provide the only viable employment opportunities, as systemic barriers often - [RLO-Led Rapid Response Networks: Adapting Community-Based Crisis Management in Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/publications/rlo-led-rapid-response-networks-adapting-community-based-crisis-management-in-lebanon/) - When disaster strikes, Refugee-Led Organizations (RLOs) are often the first to act, providing crucial support where it’s needed most. Their ability to mobilize quickly, their deep knowledge of local communities, and their readiness to deliver aid make them indispensable first responders. Unlike larger international organizations, RLOs are nimble, leveraging their proximity to affected areas to ## Downloads - [Annual Report 2024](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/?post_type=dlm_download&p=1741) - [Annual Report 2024](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/?post_type=dlm_download&p=1340) - [BZ_General-Brochure_Updated.pdf](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/?post_type=dlm_download&p=1214) - [BZ_General-Brochure_Updated.pdf](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/?post_type=dlm_download&p=1213) - [Annual Report 2023](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/?post_type=dlm_download&p=1008) - [Annual Report 2023](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/?post_type=dlm_download&p=212) - [Annual Report 2022](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/?post_type=dlm_download&p=209) - [Annual Report 2020](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/?post_type=dlm_download&p=206) - [Annual Report 2019](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/?post_type=dlm_download&p=202) - [Annual Report 2018](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/?post_type=dlm_download&p=199) - [Annual Report 2017](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/?post_type=dlm_download&p=196) ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/category/uncategorized/) - [Advocacy & Research](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/category/advocacy-research/) - [Education](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/category/education/) - [Food Security & Livelihood](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/category/food-security-livelihood/) - [Protection](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/category/protection/) - [Fostering Refugee Leadership](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/category/fostering-refugee-leadership/) - [Emergency Response 2026](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/category/emergency-response-2026/) ## Story Categories - [Civil Society Enablement](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/story-category/civil-society-enablement/) - [Education](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/story-category/education/) - [Food Security & Livelihood](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/story-category/food-security-livelihood/) - [Peace Building](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/story-category/peace-building/) - [Protection](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/story-category/protection/) - [Solidarity with Lebanon](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/story-category/solidarity-with-lebanon/) - [Advocacy & Research](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/story-category/advocacy-research/) - [Emergency Response 2026](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/story-category/emergency-response-2026-2/) ## Publication Types - [Research Blog](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/publication-type/research-blog/) ## Download Categories - [Annual Reports](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/?dlm_download_category=annual-reports) ## Categories - [Reports](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/3d-flip-book-category/reports/) - [Policies](https://basmeh-zeitooneh.org/3d-flip-book-category/policies/)