The United Nations Special Coordinator in Lebanon Joanna Wronecka stressed the importance of “maintaining stability and social cohesion” despite the severe crises afflicting the country.

The UN coordinator, who toured a number of towns in the south of the country, affirmed the “UN’s strong commitment to not leave anyone behind,” and acknowledged the “severe impact of the current economic crisis on communities in the south, where vulnerable Lebanese and refugee families are struggling.”

Wronecka pointed out that “many families depend on the assistance provided by the United Nations to overcome one of the harshest winters,” noting that “the needs are enormous and most families cannot cover their expenses.”

While expressing her pleasure to see the support provided to both Lebanese and refugee families, she said, “It is necessary to continue supporting Lebanese families and municipalities in order to mitigate the impact of the current crises and to contribute and contribute to longer-term development.”

Wronecka was briefed on the situation of Syrian refugees by representatives of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, who indicated that nine out of ten Syrian refugees in Lebanon live in extreme poverty, and 30% of them suffer from food insecurity.