Beirut : The Government of Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) will support Lebanon’s sustainable recovery, amidst the multiple crises that the country is facing. This renewed partnership will seek to build Lebanon forward, with a focus on strengthening disaster risk management, and waste management. The support comes at a particularly difficult time for Lebanon as the country is facing multi-faceted challenges, including an economic, financial and fiscal crisis, combined with the devastating consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and the August 4 2020 port explosions.

In line with the Recovery, Reform and Reconstruction Framework (3RF), the Government of Japan will be supporting an integrated response to the numerous crises faced by Lebanon by mainstreaming sustainable and long-term development approaches into the recovery efforts.  The funding and technical expertise provided by the Government of Japan will among other things address waste management, particularly with regards to hazardous and electronic waste (e-waste), which remains a main challenge for the country.  Particularly, UNDP’s demolition waste assessment report showed that a significant amount of E-waste was identified after Beirut Port Explosion, requiring specific treatment. Even before the crisis, Lebanon did not have the infrastructure to properly manage this type of waste, and the new partnership with Japan will seek to find solutions in an environmentally friendly way.

“I am extremely happy to share the news with the Lebanese people that we have launched the important project in partnership with UNDP for reconstruction and recovery from the destructions caused by the Beirut Port blast, which is nearing one year anniversary. As the people faces unprecedented socio-economic and financial crises in a continuous manner, Japan remains to stand hand in hand with the people of Lebanon in this difficult time,” said H.E. Mr. Okubo Takeshi, Ambassador of Japan to Lebanon

“UNDP remains committed to build Lebanon forward, with a focus on a green, inclusive and sustainable recovery. Our long-standing partnership with the Government of Japan will be essential in helping us achieve these goals, as we work together to leave no-one behind.” Celine Moyroud, UNDP Resident Representative, said.

Japan remains one of the strongest partners for UNDP globally and regionally and has been a champion of initiatives anchored in human security, the humanitarian-development nexus, climate action and environmental sustainability. UNDP Lebanon is grateful for the long-standing partnership with the Government of Japan and its contribution of over USD 17 million since 2014 in support of host communities, and the environment.

For more information, please contact

In UNDP – Lebanon        |  Rana Moughabghab   |  rana.moughabghab@undp.org  |  +961 3 835 351

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.