One-Third of Lebanese Population Lives Below Poverty Line Amid Economic Crisis

One-Third of Lebanese Population Lives Below Poverty Line Amid Economic Crisis
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Lebanon is facing a severe social and economic crisis, with roughly one-third of its population living below the national poverty line, authorities reported. The country is also experiencing rising food insecurity among many families due to successive economic shocks and recurring conflicts.

The announcement was made by Lebanese Minister of Social Affairs Haneen Al-Sayyed, representing President Michel Aoun, during the high-level meeting of the Global Alliance for Combating Hunger and Poverty in Doha, Qatar, ahead of the Social Development Summit. Al-Sayyed emphasized that addressing poverty and hunger is a national and moral responsibility, highlighting that peace and stability are essential for sustainable development.

She described Lebanon’s current situation as one of the most complex social and economic crises in its modern history, with growing rates of food insecurity and financial hardship among citizens. In response, the government has launched a social and economic reform plan aimed at establishing a comprehensive social protection system based on equity, sustainability, and human-centered policies.

During the summit, Al-Sayyed held bilateral meetings with several officials, including Fahad Al-Sulaiti, CEO of the Qatar Development Fund, to explore youth support and small business financing. She also met with Qatari Minister of Social Development Buthaina Al-Naemi to discuss cooperation agreements and with Sheikha Moza Al-Thani to enhance support for Lebanese artisans and cultural initiatives.

Al-Sayyed concluded that Lebanon’s participation in the summit reflects its commitment to social justice and comprehensive development, underlining ongoing efforts to strengthen social protection networks and institutional reforms in collaboration with regional and international partners.