The Situation of Palestinian Refugees in Lebanon and the Impact of the Economic Crisis on Palestinian Labour in Nahr al-Bared Camp

02/05/2024

Nahr al-Bared: On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, the Lebanese-Palestinian Coalition for the Right to Work Campaign for Palestinian Refugees in Lebanon organised an interactive seminar and open discussion titled “The Situation of Palestinian Refugees in Lebanon and the Impact of the Economic Crisis on Palestinian Labour.” The event was attended by representatives of factions, political parties, national and Islamic forces, popular committees, NGOs, women’s committees, the Engineers’ Union, social associations, and activists from the local community, including workers.

After welcoming the attendees, Mr. Alaa Dirawi, the coalition coordinator in Tripoli, delivered the coalition’s statement for International Workers’ Day: “No Economic and Social Justice Without Ending the Genocide of Palestinian Workers. Greetings and appreciation to workers worldwide, especially to those in Palestine, Gaza, the West Bank, Jerusalem, and the occupied territories, who, like other members of the Palestinian people, endure systematic violations by the Israeli occupation: harassment at military checkpoints, targeting of labour and agricultural facilities, land confiscation, and suffering from genocide, starvation, and displacement in Gaza. Special recognition is given to the workers in Lebanon and Palestine who face harsh economic conditions and overcome difficulties to ensure a decent living for their families.” The discussion highlighted key issues affecting Palestinian labour.

Captain Shadi Al-Sayed, President of the Federation of Workers and Employees Unions in the North, spoke about the importance of Lebanese-Palestinian relations in various fields, particularly concerning Palestinian workers and their rights, which are denied by Lebanese law. He emphasised the need for solidarity and joint efforts to secure the rights of Palestinian workers and offered his support to any Palestinian worker seeking to claim their rights through the Labour Arbitration Council.

The seminar included valuable contributions from the attendees, and at the end of the event, several workers were honoured for their efforts and dedication in supporting development in their workplaces.