The Issue
Lebanon is facing deep social divisions driven by overlapping economic, political, and humanitarian crises. Poverty, unemployment, and inequality have increased tensions among communities, while sectarianism continues to erode trust. These challenges have been made worse by the long-standing refugee crisis and the recent escalation of current conflicts, which has displaced more than one million people across the country.
In areas such as Saida and Jezzine, limited resources, competition for jobs, and restricted access to services have fuelled frustration and resentment between host communities, refugees, and internally displaced persons.
Recent clashes, such as those in the Ein El Helweh camp, exposed the fragility of social cohesion and the lack of support for affected groups. Without action, the risks of renewed violence and community breakdown remain high.
The Project
DanChurchAid (DCA), in partnership with the Development for People and Nature Association (DPNA), implemented a peacebuilding project designed to strengthen the ability of communities to prevent and manage conflict.
The project supported local community committees in conflict-affected areas like Saida and Jezzine.
These committees, composed of local residents and displaced people, received training on conflict sensitivity, communication, protection, and gender equality. They also learned how to design inclusive initiatives that promote dialogue and address local needs.
By focusing on localized and timely interventions, the project enabled communities to identify and resolve disputes before they escalated. It promoted collaboration between community members, local authorities, and other stakeholders to build mutual trust and long-term stability.
The Change
Through this project, communities gained the tools to lead their own peace and resilience efforts. Local committees became more confident in preventing and addressing tensions, while residents and displaced people alike found space for dialogue and cooperation.
The project strengthened women’s roles in peacebuilding, ensuring they have an equal voice in decision-making, mediation, and conflict resolution. This inclusive approach not only supports immediate stability but also lays the groundwork for sustainable peace. Over time, the project contributes to stronger, more connected communities capable of managing challenges together and fostering a shared sense of safety and belonging.
The Partners
Development for People and Nature Association (DPNA), established in 2003, is an independent, grassroots organization promoting sustainable development and citizen participation in Lebanon. It empowers marginalized communities to take collective action through a human rights-based approach.
DPNA and DCA have a long-standing partnership focused on emergency response and community resilience. Together, they have supported vulnerable Lebanese and Syrian families, responded to crises such as the Ein El Helweh clashes, and promoted community-led recovery and peacebuilding initiatives.
About the Project
Full Title: Responding to the inter and intra communal tensions in emergency settings
Timeline: December 2024 to September 2025
Partner: Development for People and Nature Association (DPNA)
Amount: 250,000 EU
DCA Theme: Save and Build
Donor: Peacebuilding Unit of the Belgian FPS Foreign Affairs (FPS FA)
