Few Syrian refugee and Lebanese women participate in the labour force in Lebanon, often due to critical gender barriers: housework and childcare obligations. This is particularly true for low-income women, who participate in economic activities at lower rates than men and are often unable to afford home help. Inadequate or absent childcare services contribute to women’s economic inactivity and serve as barriers that limit women’s mobility.

This sector-specific gender analysis provides evidence on which the EU, EU Member States, and other stakeholders may base strategic priorities for action in support of gender equality over the next seven years in Lebanon, in line with the EU’s global Gender Action Plan III (GAP III) framework.

This assessment developed by UNW, UNHCR, WFP and UNICEF demonstrate gender inequalities across the Syrian refugee population, limiting access, rights and opportunities for women and girls, particularly as related to economic participation, education, food insecurity, humanitarian assistance, legal issues, and wider protections, including sexual and gender-based violence.

The Gender and Inclusion Tip Sheets aim to support the sector partners responding to the Beirut Port explosion in promoting a gender sensitive response and ensuring that the needs of vulnerable people are meaningfully represented.