The closure of Bardo, a renowned bar in Beirut, marks the end of an era for the city's queer community. Open for fifteen years, Bardo was a safe space and cultural hub for LGBTQ+ individuals. Its closure, driven by the financial crisis and landlord demands, symbolizes the broader struggles facing Lebanon. Key figures like musician Vladimir Kurumilian and Bardo co-owner Mazen Khaled express the profound impact on the community, while Human Rights Watch and Helem highlight the vulnerability of queer spaces in the current economic climate. The loss of Bardo has led many to reconsider their relationship with Lebanon, underscoring the challenges ahead for the country's marginalized groups.

The article reflects on the devastating impact of the August 4 explosion in Beirut, emphasizing the resilience and self-reliance of the Lebanese people amidst government inaction. It recounts personal experiences and the ongoing struggles faced by Beirut's residents, highlighting the importance of not forgetting the crisis in Lebanon despite the fast-moving news cycle.

The economic crisis, government absence, COVID-19 pandemic, and the Beirut explosion have led to a significant increase in pet abandonment in Lebanon. Organizations like Animals Lebanon and BETA NGO are overwhelmed with abandoned pets and are struggling financially. The devaluation of the Lebanese pound has made pet care unaffordable for many, with essential items like cat food costing more than the minimum monthly wage. Despite efforts to support pet owners, the situation remains unsustainable. Some pet owners are forced to abandon their pets due to financial constraints or when leaving the country. However, there are also instances of stronger bonds between pets and owners due to the pandemic.

In Togo, women are pivotal to social and political change despite facing significant economic and social challenges. Initiatives by organizations like Plan International Togo and African Real Music Industry (ARMI) aim to empower women through education and awareness. Prominent figures such as Milly Parkeur and Farida Nabourema highlight the crucial role of women in politics and social development. The upcoming legislative elections are seen as a critical juncture, with increased female participation potentially influencing political reforms and voter turnout.

Beirut's port explosion damaged over 8,000 structures, including 640 historic buildings, with around 60 at risk of collapse. The city's residents have initiated efforts to preserve these buildings, which are integral to Beirut's cultural heritage. Activists like Youssef Haidar and organizations such as Save Beirut Heritage and Beirut Heritage Initiative are working to prevent the sale and demolition of these structures. UNESCO launched the 'Li Beirut' initiative to raise funds for rehabilitation. The Beirut Heritage Initiative is actively assessing and reinforcing buildings, with international and local support. The preservation efforts aim to maintain the social fabric and cultural identity of Beirut.

The war in Ukraine has significantly influenced the French presidential elections, boosting Emmanuel Macron's lead in the polls. Macron's diplomatic efforts and crisis management have strengthened his position, while other candidates struggle with their platforms and past affiliations with Russia. Marine Le Pen and Eric Zemmour have adjusted their stances on Russia, with Zemmour facing criticism for his controversial comments. The left-wing candidates, including Jean-Luc Mélenchon, have also been affected by their previous support for Putin. The war in Ukraine remains a dominant issue, overshadowing other campaign topics.

The Gulf Centre for Human Rights appealed for the release of all prisoners of conscience in Bahrain due to a spike in Covid-19 cases, particularly after an outbreak in Jaw prison. The appeal includes human rights defenders and activists imprisoned for exercising their rights to freedom of expression and assembly. The GCHR highlighted the case of Sayed Nizar Alwadaei, who contracted the virus in detention. Despite authorities promising to release some prisoners, concerns remain among families about the health and safety of the detainees.

The article discusses the challenges faced by Muslims in France during Ramadan, highlighting the impact of recent government policies and societal attitudes. It critiques the French government's anti-separatism bill and the Senate's toughened measures, which are perceived as targeting Muslims. The article features personal accounts from various individuals, including community leaders and ordinary citizens, who express concerns about Islamophobia, political exploitation, and the pressure on Muslim women. The sentiment towards the French government and right-wing policies is predominantly negative, with calls for peace and resilience within the Muslim community.

The French government initiated the dissolution of Generation Identity (GI), a far-right group known for anti-migrant activism, citing incitement to discrimination and violence. GI's tactics included deploying cars and drones to prevent migrants from crossing the French border. The group's dissolution occurs amid heightened political focus on France's Muslim citizens, with the government facing criticism for stigmatizing Muslims through legislation and rhetoric. GI, which evolved from other far-right groups, targets the Muslim community based on the 'Great Replacement' theory. Despite the dissolution, experts like Jean-Yves Camus believe the members will likely regroup or join other movements. The government's actions are seen as a response to both far-right extremism and to balance its image after debates on Islamism and immigration.

Avril Haines, Joe Biden's nominee for Director of National Intelligence, has pledged to declassify an intelligence report on the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Khashoggi was killed in 2018 at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, and the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been implicated in the murder. The Trump administration had previously blocked the report's release, citing national security concerns. Haines's commitment represents a shift towards transparency and may have implications for US-Saudi relations.

Following the Beirut explosion, Lebanon faces a mental health crisis, with widespread trauma among a population already strained by conflict and economic hardship. Initiatives like Beirut Disaster Relief and Beirut Explosions Emotions have been launched to provide free psychological support. IDRAAC and MIND are working closely with mental health professionals to address trauma and PTSD. Theatre company Clown Me In and NGO Himaya are focusing on helping children and families cope with the aftermath. Mental health professionals are also dealing with their own trauma while trying to support the community.

The Beirut blast has triggered a significant mental health crisis in Lebanon, exacerbating the trauma experienced by a population already familiar with conflict and economic hardship. Various civil society initiatives, including Beirut Disaster Relief and Beirut Explosions Emotions, have been launched to provide mental health support through free consultations and therapy sessions. Organizations like IDRAAC and Himaya are actively involved in addressing the psychological impact, particularly among children. Mental health professionals, who are also dealing with their own trauma, are working tirelessly to support the affected population. The article highlights the collective efforts of individuals and groups in mitigating the mental health crisis and fostering community resilience.

Lebanon's revolution has been temporarily halted due to COVID-19 lockdown measures, but activists continue to support vulnerable communities through various initiatives. Despite the government's repressive actions and the economic crisis, the spirit of the October revolution persists. Activists are preparing to resume protests once the pandemic is under control, highlighting the government's failures and the deep-seated issue of clientelism in Lebanon.

A Lebanese couple, Darwish and Sukkarieh, who sought asylum in Sweden due to death threats from religious authorities in Lebanon, face deportation after their request was rejected. The couple had removed their religious affiliations to marry civilly in Lebanon, defying sectarian norms. Despite receiving threats, including a fatwa from Lebanon's Grand Mufti, the Swedish Migration Agency deemed their claims of persecution not credible. The article highlights the challenges of civil marriage in Lebanon and the couple's fears of returning to a country where religious leaders hold significant power over civil matters.

The film 'Capharnaüm' addresses child abuse in Lebanon, following the story of Zain, a street-smart child facing various forms of abuse. Directed by Nadine Labaki, the film sheds light on issues such as child labor, early marriage, and statelessness. Organizations like Himaya and Kafa are actively working to protect children and raise awareness. Despite existing laws, child abuse remains prevalent, necessitating continued efforts for change. The film has significantly impacted public awareness, prompting further action from both local and international organizations.

Lebanese creativity is being bolstered by startup awards and competitions, with initiatives like the Hult Prize Foundation's Changemaker Festival and various accelerators and funds supporting social enterprises. These efforts are crucial in a country facing multiple crises, providing young entrepreneurs with the resources and mentorship needed to develop their ideas into impactful businesses. Key players include Heatechs, Labneh&Facts, and FabricAID, which have benefited from such support. However, there is a need for more incubators, accelerators, and entrepreneurship education to sustain and grow these enterprises.

Despite technological advances and rights established by international law, labor exploitation remains a global issue, with racial and gender dimensions. The International Labour Organization reports 40.3 million people as modern slavery victims, with 24.9 million affected by forced labor. In the Middle East, the kafala system leaves migrant workers vulnerable, despite trade union efforts leading to reforms in places like Qatar. Child labor persists in Asia-Pacific, with Indonesia lagging in its eradication pledge. Global agriculture, including palm oil plantations in Guatemala, continues to exploit workers. In Europe, migrant sex workers face criminalization and exploitation. Mauritania struggles with slavery, particularly among the Afro-Mauritanian or Haratine population. The solution to ending extreme worker exploitation requires action from governments, corporations, civil society, trade unions, individual workers, and consumers.

The second edition of Beirut Pride, scheduled for May 12-20, was cancelled by Lebanese authorities, and organizer Hadi Damien was arrested and forced to sign a pledge to halt activities. The cancellation followed a distorted Arabic version of the event's program, which authorities claimed promoted debauchery. Despite this, the Zoukak theatre company and local NGO Helem continued to support LGBTQ rights, with Helem holding a conference on May 17. Activists advise the LGBTQ community to stay discreet for the time being, with plans to organize another event in solidarity with Beirut Pride when the situation improves.

In Lebanon, journalists, activists, and talk show hosts face legal pressures and charges of defamation, symbolizing government efforts to suppress free speech ahead of the parliamentary elections on May 6, 2018. Legal attacks have increased, particularly since November 2017. High-profile cases include LBCI talk show hosts Marcel Ghanem and Hisham Haddad, and journalist Hanin Ghaddar. The upcoming elections, delayed since 2013, will introduce proportional representation, ending the sectarian parliamentary system. Critics argue that the legal system is being used politically to intimidate and promote self-censorship. Human Rights Watch and other organizations call for the repeal of laws criminalizing peaceful criticism of the government. Despite the risks, many in Lebanon continue to express their opinions, hoping for more protection and change with the new elections.

The article discusses a campaign led by Manal Kortam to advocate for the rights of marginalized populations in Lebanon, particularly Palestinian refugees. The campaign aims to highlight the dire living conditions and systemic discrimination faced by Palestinians, who are legally recognized as refugees but not as citizens, affecting their opportunities and rights. The campaign also seeks to include other vulnerable groups such as women, disabled, and poor people. Anis Mohsen, a Palestinian-Lebanese editorial secretary, shares personal experiences of discrimination and the challenges faced by Palestinian refugees in Lebanon. The campaign aims to foster a new discourse and mindset, advocating for a rule of law that protects all citizens and promotes post-war reconciliation.

The article discusses a book that explores the daily realities of Arab women, covering themes such as beauty, family pressure, commitment issues, violence, and oppression. It highlights the stories of several women who challenge societal expectations and stereotypes. Raya Hajj and Mishka Mourani's stories address career and independence struggles, while Zeina Abi Assy's narrative deals with body image and self-acceptance. Shahd Alshammari discusses disability and love, and Nisreen Sinjab portrays the life of an Arab woman balancing family, career, and self. The article emphasizes the importance of intellectual freedom for Arab women and the growing movement of Arab feminism. It also includes the story of Gabi Toufiq, who shares her experience with rape and the subsequent victim-blaming. The anthology is seen as a testament to the courage of young Arab women writers who are speaking up against stigmatization and seeking independence.

The article discusses a collective exhibition called 'Haneen' in Beirut, which is supported by UNICEF and the local NGO Beyond, in collaboration with Lebanese artist Chadi Aoun. The exhibition features 39 poems written by Syrian children who are refugees in Lebanon, expressing their experiences and traumas of the war in Syria. These poems have been interpreted by 47 artists through various mediums such as paintings, drawings, sculptures, and sound installations. The exhibition aims to highlight the therapeutic nature of art for children affected by war and to create a connection between Syrian refugee children and Lebanese and Syrian artists.

The article discusses the increasing legal attacks against journalists, activists, and media personalities in Lebanon, particularly in the context of the upcoming parliamentary elections on May 6, 2018. It highlights several cases where individuals were charged with defamation for criticizing the government or political figures. The article features comments from representatives of the Samir Kassir Foundation, The Washington Institute, March Lebanon, and Human Rights Watch, who express concerns about the chilling effect these prosecutions have on free speech. The new election law and its potential to end the sectarian parliamentary system are also discussed. The article suggests that the legal actions are intended to intimidate and promote self-censorship among critics of the government ahead of the elections. Despite the risks, some journalists and activists remain hopeful for change and continue to speak out.

An exhibition titled 'Haneen' in Beirut showcases the works of Syrian refugee children expressing their experiences of war through poetry, paired with interpretations by Lebanese and Syrian artists. Supported by UNICEF and local NGO Beyond, the exhibition features 39 poems by Syrian children and 47 artworks, aiming to demonstrate the therapeutic nature of art and foster connections between the children and artists.

The Lebanese General Security Directorate initially banned Steven Spielberg's film 'The Post' due to his ties with Israel and his blacklist status from 'Schindler’s List,' but later reversed the decision. Movie censorship in Lebanon is inconsistent, influenced by a 1947 law and pressures from religious and political groups, and is based on subjective criteria including public morals, state authority reputations, sectarian sensitivities, and national interests.

Pierre Sadek, a renowned Lebanese satirist, is honored through an exhibition at the Sursock Museum in Beirut, showcasing 720 of his drawings. The exhibition, organized in partnership with the Pierre Sadek Foundation, aims to preserve his legacy and runs from February 8 to April 30. Sadek's work, spanning over 53 years, includes 30,000 illustrations, TV animations, and book covers.

Despite Lebanese law ensuring rights for people with disabilities, children with disabilities face significant barriers to education, including discriminatory admission practices and lack of inclusive schooling. Human Rights Watch reports that many children are either denied admission or funneled into segregated institutions. The Ministry of Social Affairs supports some specialized schools, but these do not offer legal degrees or labor certificates. The Friends of the Disabled Association acknowledges some progress but criticizes the government for insufficient resources. The article calls for better implementation of inclusive education policies to improve the quality of life for disabled children in Lebanon.

The Lebanese government launched an online platform for non-resident Lebanese to register to vote in the upcoming parliamentary elections scheduled for May 2018. This initiative, which saw over 90,000 eligible voters register, marks the first time the option has been available. Although out-of-country voting was mandated to start with the 2013 elections by Elections law No. 25, it has been delayed multiple times.

Lebanese singer Yasmine Hamdan's song 'Balad' from the album 'Al Jamilat' reflects on the social and security issues in Beirut, depicting scenes of daily life such as traffic jams, shouting people, and children selling items to drivers. The song expresses the feelings of being a hostage to the security situation and feeling abandoned as a citizen.

Caroline Torbey, with a multicultural and multilingual background, grew up in Cameroon speaking multiple languages. Her father, Lebanese, often used proverbs and idioms in Arabic, which Torbey found colorful and interesting. This inspired her to research and understand these proverbs, leading to the creation of a children's book that brings Lebanese proverbs to life.

Lebanon's winemaking tradition, dating back to the Phoenicians, has seen a revival since the early 2000s, with the country now producing around 8.5 million bottles annually, primarily for export. Notable wineries include Chateau Ksara, known for its diverse wine offerings; Chateau Khoury, which emphasizes organic agriculture; and Coteaux les Cedres, recognized for its organic and fair trade practices. These wineries contribute to Lebanon's growing reputation in the global wine market.

The Beirut International Film Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary and 17th edition by screening movies, short films, and documentaries addressing terrorism, religious extremism, refugees, and marginalized groups' rights. Running from October 4 to 12, the festival showcases local, regional, and international independent films that are typically not available on television or in local cinemas, with a jury of four selecting the best in each category.

In Lebanon, women face significant challenges in professional success due to a male-dominated political environment. Despite this, some women, like Aline Kamakian, have overcome these obstacles to launch successful businesses. Kamakian, who faced sexual harassment early in her career, now owns Mayrig, an Armenian restaurant in Beirut. The Lebanese Parliament's refusal to pass a quota for women in decision-making positions highlights the ongoing struggle for gender equality in the country.

The Beirut Art Fair (BAF), held from Sept. 21-24, showcased Khalil Gibran’s 'The Prophet' and Arabic protest art, emphasizing Arab identity. The event, founded by Laure d’Hauteville, featured 51 galleries from 23 countries and was accompanied by the Beirut Design Fair (BDF). Beirut is highlighted as a cultural hub in the Middle East.

Rosemary, a Kenyan woman living in Beirut, recounts her experiences of verbal and physical abuse, reflecting the broader issue of racism faced by black women in Lebanon. After enduring constant harassment, she and her family were forced to vacate their apartment. The Anti-Racism Movement (ARM) has documented her story, shedding light on the pervasive racism in the country.

Buildings in Ouzai, a poor neighborhood in southern Beirut, have been revitalized with vibrant colors through the Ouzville project initiated by Ayed Nasser, co-founder of Loft Investments. The project has garnered mixed reactions, with some praising the effort to beautify the area and others criticizing it for not addressing deeper social and political issues. Nasser highlights the neglect by politicians and the community's focus on personal interests over public spaces.

The article discusses the significant role Yemeni women are playing amidst the ongoing conflict in the country. Despite facing challenges such as widowhood, lack of access to maternal care, and a conservative society, women have been actively involved in providing humanitarian relief and peacebuilding efforts. Hiba Ali Zain Aidaroos, a lawyer and lecturer, founded the NGO Sawasya to report human rights violations, distribute food aid, and provide solar energy systems. The article also mentions a report by Saferworld and other organizations highlighting women's growing roles in the conflict. Women with medical backgrounds, like those working with MSF, are providing essential services, and gender activist Rasha Jarhum discusses the pre-war and current challenges for Yemeni women. The article underscores the resilience and optimism of Yemeni women, who are expected to continue fighting for their rights post-war.

More than 75,000 people have disappeared in Syria since 2011, according to the Syrian Network for Human Rights. Amnesty International launched a campaign on the International Day of the Disappeared to urge authorities and armed groups to disclose the status of the disappeared to their families. The campaign included a weeklong exhibition at Station Beirut, featuring poems by detainees and portraits by Syrian artist Azza Abou Rebieh.

On July 24, Judge Saqr Saqr received a medical report on the deaths of four Syrians in Lebanese custody. The report, prepared by a committee of three doctors, concluded that the deaths were due to health problems rather than violence. The four Syrians were among hundreds arrested during army raids on Syrian refugee camps in Arsal, aimed at capturing terrorists.

The article discusses the dire state of women's healthcare in Syria, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict which has led to the destruction of medical facilities and the targeting of healthcare workers. With over 320 health facilities attacked since 2011, access to healthcare is largely dependent on one's location within the country. The situation has resulted in understaffing in critical areas such as sexual, reproductive, and mental healthcare. Organizations like Medecins Sans Frontieres and local NGOs are attempting to fill the healthcare gap, with some setting up specialized centers and underground hospitals to protect patients and staff from aerial attacks. Despite these efforts, many women still lack access to necessary healthcare, leading to increased maternal mortality rates and reliance on midwives or private hospitals. The article also touches on the challenges faced by Syrian refugee women in neighboring countries. Efforts by various organizations to provide training, raise awareness, and improve access to healthcare are highlighted as crucial steps towards empowering Syrian women during the war.

The UN-recognized government of Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj in Libya is seeking assistance from Italy to combat human smugglers. However, the fragile government must balance the need for international help with the risk of upsetting its population.

In Damietta, a town in Egypt's Nile Delta, an imam is urging residents to minimize wedding expenses to ease financial burdens amid worsening economic conditions. Traditionally, Egyptian weddings involve costly customs such as buying gold engagement jewelry and holding henna parties. However, the declining purchasing power has led many to reconsider these expensive traditions.

The Don Quixote Cycling Collective in Turkey, which originated from the Gezi Park events of 2013, combines biking with social activism. The group's founders, who met during the protests, see themselves as activists who cycle. Emre Tepe, a founding member, discussed the collective's identity and purpose with Al-Monitor.

In Lebanon, public criticism of the army's human rights abuses is met with threats, amidst increased security measures against terrorism. Tensions escalated after a Lebanese army raid in Arsal, a town near the Syrian border, where soldiers encountered suicide bombers and arrested around 350 people, with four dying in detention. The subsequent Hezbollah and national army actions against Islamic State and Jabhat Fatah al-Sham militants have further divided Lebanese citizens.

Hundreds of faces reflecting various emotions are showcased in photographer Fadi Thabet’s open exhibition at Gaza Port. The exhibition, featuring 1,000 photos taken over a decade, was organized and funded by the Palestinian Ministry of Culture in Gaza and occupied 1,000 meters of wall space.

Kafa, a Lebanese feminist NGO, launched a campaign against child marriage with a video titled 'A Wedding or a Funeral,' which portrays the grim reality of child brides and equates early marriage to the death of a girl's future. This initiative is part of Kafa's ongoing efforts since 2015 to end early marriage in Lebanon.

Beirut, known for its air pollution and traffic jams, is seeing a rise in cycling among residents. Every Thursday night, cyclists join rides organized by Cycling Circle, a company founded by Karim Sokhn in 2012 to promote cycling. The company organizes rides in Beirut and biking trips to various locations in Lebanon.

Israel has seen a significant increase in bicycle usage due to traffic congestion, health awareness, and stylish new bikes. Biking, once a children's activity or specialized sport, now attracts a diverse group of cyclists, including professionals commuting to work and members of biking clubs. In Tel Aviv, bikes are particularly popular for avoiding traffic and parking issues, while across the country, amateur riders participate in nature rides and city tours.

Majdal, a 14-year-old Yazidi boy, had his childhood destroyed when the Islamic State invaded his hometown Kocho in August 2014. Separated from his family, he was forced to adopt a new identity and religion in an IS military camp in Raqqa. Recently rescued, Majdal now resides with relatives in a displacement camp near Dahuk, Iraqi Kurdistan, but continues to grapple with the psychological aftermath of his indoctrination and training as a child soldier.

A 450-year-old house in the Zaytoun neighborhood of Gaza City, built during Ottoman rule in Palestine, has been restored by its owner, Atef Salameh. The house now resembles a shami, a traditional Syrian house, similar to those depicted in popular TV series such as 'Bab al-Hara' and 'Layali al-Salihia'.

Mahmoud Shokoko, a leading Egyptian comedian of the 1940s, was known for his musical sketches that contained sociopolitical criticism. His work, including the monologue 'Hashish,' remains influential. Ismail Yasseen, who emerged in the late 1940s, brought a tragicomic style to Egyptian comedy, excelling in monologues about middle-class struggles and contributing to cinema with notable films. In 2014, Google honored Shokoko with a regional Doodle on his 102nd birthday.

Yusra Mohammed Badwan, at 25, became the youngest female mayor in the Palestinian territories after her independent list, the Prisoners’ Bloc, won in the local elections. Despite facing criticism due to her gender and youth, Badwan is determined to overcome opposition and prove her capabilities.

The article discusses the Mzaar ski resort in Kfardebian, Lebanon, which is the country's oldest ski resort and is known for its scenic views of the Bekaa Valley and the Beirut coastline. The resort, situated at the highest point of Mount Mzaar, attracts around 7,000 skiers on a busy Saturday and caters mostly to the local population. However, it also draws visitors from the Gulf, the Emirates, and even European countries like France and Switzerland. The director of the resort, Christian Rizk, emphasizes skiing as a Lebanese passion, and the resort's commitment to providing a diverse skiing experience is echoed by visitors like Lebanese cousins Nour and Sandra, as well as international tourists who compare the resort to Swiss and Alpine destinations.

The article discusses the impact of new U.S. restrictions on asylum seekers, particularly Syrian refugees in Lebanon, following President Donald Trump's executive order. Lebanon, hosting about 1.5 million Syrian refugees, is seeing a parallel between Trump's and Lebanese President Michel Aoun's views on refugees. Aoun has called for the repatriation of Syrians and supports the creation of safe zones in Syria, a policy Trump appears to support. The uncertainty for refugees is exacerbated by the U.S. ban and Aoun's proposals, affecting Syrians' hopes of resettlement and their current living conditions in Lebanon. The article includes perspectives from Syrian refugees in Lebanon, the challenges of the Lebanese sectarian system, and the potential consequences of permanent Syrian settlement in Lebanon. It also touches on the broader implications of safe zones and the political alignment between Trump and Aoun.

Tehran's air pollution remains a critical issue, with historical and ongoing efforts by the Environmental Protection Organization of Iran showing limited success. Despite initiatives like the Comprehensive Program to Decrease Air Pollution in Tehran (CPDAPT) and the Comprehensive Plan for Transportation and Traffic of Tehran (CPTTT), air quality has not improved significantly, and thousands of Iranians continue to die annually due to pollution. The article highlights the persistent challenges and political obstacles faced by Masoumeh Ebtekar, the current head of the Environmental Protection Organization, in addressing this environmental crisis.

In Beirut's Sed el Baouchrieh neighborhood, Iraqi Christian refugees face significant hardships, struggling with high living costs and limited aid. Organizations like Notre Dame de la Miséricorde and Triumphant Mercy provide crucial support, but resources are stretched thin. The UNHCR's aid is deemed insufficient, with only a fraction directed towards Iraqi refugees. The refugees, traumatized by persecution from the Islamic State, seek a permanent safe haven, often viewing Lebanon as a temporary stop before emigrating to Western countries. The article highlights the dire conditions and the need for more comprehensive international support.

Since the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011, female Syrian refugees in Lebanon have faced significant challenges, including trauma and sexual targeting. Art initiatives by visual artists Aglaia Haritz from Switzerland and Abdelaziz Zerrou from Morocco aim to provide these women with a platform to express their stories, moving beyond the victim narrative and sensitively portraying their lives and struggles.

Around 100 Syrian and Lebanese children gathered at Barouk public school for a puppet show by Khayal Theatre Company, part of an initiative by UNICEF and Terre des Hommes Italy to discuss human rights through art. Lebanon hosts approximately 1.2 million Syrian refugees, with over half under 18, facing severe mental health challenges. Various NGOs, including Cirquenciel and Doctors of the World, provide circus arts and entertainment to improve their well-being. Clowns Without Borders also offers clown shows to refugee children, emphasizing the importance of laughter and play in their recovery. These activities aim to provide psycho-social support and a sense of normalcy amidst their challenging circumstances.