
Since 2019, Lebanon has been through a series of crises, which have resulted in a rapid socio-economic decline. We have been through a significant non-nuclear explosion in Beirut, a steep devaluation of the Lebanese Pound, and other series of conflicts and shortages in resources. Today, more than 80% of the population has fallen below the poverty line, 70% of youth want to emigrate and the education system has been crumbling. The social and environmental issues are countless. In this context, polarization, social tensions, nepotism, and injustice risk to prevail. This is especially dangerous when public institutions and government response have been systematically weakened. We believe a crisis is the opportunity to innovate, break free and take risks. Now is the time to work on paradigm shifts and solidary movements. We don’t want to fall into the cycles of helplessness, poverty and aid dependency. At the same time, we have seen the power of solidarity and community (which is a core value in our society) to bring about sustainable change. There are successful models of movements that are collectively solving solutions (solar panel installations, money lending options, cooperatives). We will be building on those to support local economic empowerment. Communities living in remote areas (outside of Beirut, in rural settings) often have less chances to improve their lives as they need to move for Beirut for education, incubation, work or connections. This a core issue we want to address in our solution.
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