Endline 2023 Report Multipurpose Cash Assistance for Syrian Refugees in Lebanon: Post Distribution and Outcome Monitoring
INTRODUCTION
This report presents the endline post distribution and outcome monitoring (PDOM) results for the UNHCR multi-purpose cash assistance program (MCAP) targeting Syrian refugees in Lebanon implemented between January and November 2023.
LEBANON CONTEXT
Lebanon is facing significant socio-economic challenges characterized by high inflation, currency depreciation, and economic contraction. Over the past year, inflation has soared to 212 percent, with food prices up by 220 percent and energy prices by 104 percent1 . Syrian refugees in Lebanon are particularly affected, struggling to meet their basic needs amid escalating inflation, lack of job opportunities and inadequate assistance2. The VAYSR 2023 report shows a reported increase in restrictive measures, such as curfews specifically for Syrians, from 4% in 2022 to 12% in 2023. Legal residency rates remain low, with only 20% holding valid residency, exposing them to risks like detention and exploitation. Consequently, these measures lead to limit ability of movement and access to employment opportunities. Employment rates among Syrian refugees in 2023 improved significantly, with overall employment rising from 33% to 39%, yet despite income improvements, households could only cover 28% of the monthly food and non-food SMEB value, indicating persistent financial challenges2. The integrated food insecurity phase classification (IPC) analysis conducted in October 2023, showed that during the period October 2023 to March 2024 the percentage of Syrian refugees in need for urgent food humanitarian assistance was 27%, and it was expected to increase to 33% during the period April 2024 to september 2024, mainly due to inflation, reduced humanitarian assistance, and ongoing conflict in the south. The ongoing conflict in the south has compounded these challenges, causing significant displacement and disruptions in essential services, further impacting vulnerable populations.
