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 leadership within a Refugee-Led Organization (RLO) reflects the evolving dynamics of refugee governance. Women and youth are now bridging the gaps between humanitarian efforts and the lived realities of displacement, offering solutions grounded in their experiences. Youth leaders like Omar from Frontliners For Change, a young leader in Beqaa focusing on mental health, emphasize the importance of their contributions: “Our voices matter because we are part of the solution.” By tackling challenges such as limited access to education and the mental toll of displacement, youth-led initiatives inject innovation and empathy into the humanitarian landscape.
Promoting Gender Equality and Addressing Specific Needs
Women-led RLOs are making significant strides in championing gender equality and addressing vulnerabilities such as gender-based violence (GBV). These organizations provide spaces for women and girls to access critical services, speak out against violence, and participate in decision-making.
“When women lead, the response to GBV becomes more nuanced and effective,” explains Rola, from the House Of Hope Organisation. Her RLO runs programs to prevent GBV by dismantling cultural and social barriers that often prevent women from seeking help. These initiatives don’t stop at advocacy; they implement actionable programs that protect women from exploitation, trafficking, and violence.
Youth-led organizations are also challenging traditional gender roles. Hanadi from the DAMMA organization in Bekaa, runs an educational mentorship program for displaced girls. “It’s not just about education; it’s about giving young girls the space to dream and lead,” she asserts. Her program has kept dozens of girls in school, directly combating stereotypes and creating opportunities for young women to excel. Additionally, leaders in DAMMA focus on the intersection of mental health and education, ensuring that young refugees have platforms to voice their concerns and access support. ” Young people often feel ignored,” he shares. “We’re creating spaces where they can speak up without fear of stigma.”
Women leaders also play a critical role in healthcare initiatives, especially in addressing reproductive health and childcare needs. Wissal, who leads a women’s organization called Le’anak Insan, emphasizes, “Cultural barriers often stop women from seeking care. Through our work, we’re breaking down those barriers and saving lives.” By combining advocacy with service delivery, these RLOs ensure holistic support for displaced women.
Building Resilient and Inclusive Communities
The inclusion of women and youth in leadership has profound implications for community resilience and social cohesion. Leaders who understand the nuances of displacement—because they have lived through it—are better positioned to design effective aid programs and build trust within their communities. Wissal highlights, “When women lead, we build bridges—not just among refugees but also with Lebanese locals. We share struggles, and that mutual understanding creates a stronger bond.”
Youth-led initiatives are also fostering resilience by encouraging cross-generational and cross-gender collaboration. Afaf from Basmet Amal explains, “Our goal is to empower young refugees to lead, but we also recognize that they need support. We provide leadership training, counseling, and platforms for engagement.” Such programs not only develop future leaders but also ensure community representation in decision-making processes.
Despite these successes, barriers to leadership remain. Cultural norms, limited access to resources, and systemic marginalization often hinder women and youth from assuming leadership roles. Rola from the House of Hope organization acknowledges these challenges: “It’s a long journey, but when women and youth are given the opportunity, they excel. The challenge is ensuring these opportunities are accessible to all.” Through mentorship, advocacy, and targeted training, RLOs are working to dismantle these barriers and create pathways for inclusive leadership.
Inclusive leadership is not just a strategy—it is a necessity for fostering stronger, more resilient communities. By empowering women and youth to lead, RLOs are laying the groundwork for sustainable humanitarian responses that address immediate needs while building long-term capacity. As Hanadi from DAMMA eloquently puts it, “Leadership isn’t about hierarchy; it’s about serving our community and ensuring everyone’s voice is heard.”