France and UNDP: Partnering for Peace, Building Resilience in Lebanon

January 2, 2026

When Lebanon emerged from the November 2024 ceasefire, the country faced daunting challenges: over 113,000 people still displaced, 1,526 contaminated sites, and strained public services. Turning this fragile peace into lasting stability requires concrete solutions that restore trust, rebuild communities, and accelerate recovery.

Thanks to the support from France’s contribution, UNDP supports the Lebanese Armed Forces as key to strengthening the State’s security presence and function, and ensuring the extension of State authority and UNSCR 1701, thereby contributing to the country’s recovery, restoration of services, and revival of livelihoods.

First, strengthening security and state authority is essential for stabilization, building peace and strengthening the social contract. France’s funding helps sustain the Lebanese Armed Forces” (LAF) morale by ensuring food security and education for soldiers’ families, which contributes to maintaining operational readiness for troops. But more long-term support is needed, especially given the LAF’s essential role in Lebanon’s context now.

Further, UNDP supports LAF Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) capacity to rehabilitate public basic services such as clinics, schools, and water systems—visible peace dividends that rebuild trust between citizens and institutions. Mine action teams are clearing 17.7 million square meters of contaminated land, making villages safe again.

“For years, we could not cultivate our land because of unexploded ordnance. Today, thanks to clearance efforts, we are planting again and securing food for our families.”

Farmer from Marjayoun (UNDP Mine Action Testimony, 2025)

Second, promoting social stability and restoring basic services is critical to prevent tensions from reigniting. The Insider Mediators Network—68% women—has expanded to help communities in early conflict prevention, addressing disputes before they escalate. . Municipal services are being strengthened through improved solid waste management (13,225 tons of waste have been collected and 4,700 bins distributed), solar-powered water systems, and rehabilitated health facilities.

“Solar energy in our water pumping station means we can provide clean water without interruption. People see that the municipality is delivering, and trust is returning.”

Mayor of Nabatieh (UNDP Municipal Services Testimony, 2025)

Third, reviving livelihoods and empowering women ensures that recovery is inclusive and sustainable. Emergency grants and technical support are helping micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) restart operations. Women-led cooperatives are a particular focus: 31 cooperatives have been supported in 2025 alone, safeguarding the livelihoods of around 6000 members through investments in infrastructure, equipment, solar energy and e-commerce platforms.

“Before, we feared losing everything. With UNDP and France’s support, we restored our facility and now sell our products online. Sixteen families depend on this income—it’s our lifeline.”

Cooperative Leader, Deir Mimas (UNDP Women’s Economic Empowerment Testimony, 2025)

Finally, driving governance and reform locks in these gains for the long term. France’s contribution supports digital transformation of public services, modernization of electoral systems, and justice sector reforms. These efforts aim to create transparent tax systems, inclusive elections, and stronger institutions.
“Moving services online is not just about efficiency—it’s about fairness and trust. Citizens can now access services without intermediaries, reducing corruption risks.” — Civil Servant, Beirut (UNDP Governance Reform Testimony, 2025)

These interventions are not abstract—they translate into safer communities, restored dignity, and economic opportunities.
“When schools reopened and health centers started working again, we felt life returning. It gave us hope that our children can grow up in peace.” — Mother in Tyre (UNDP Social Services Testimony, 2025)

Looking Ahead

France’s partnership with UNDP is more than financial—it is a commitment to peace, resilience, and hope for Lebanon’s future. The journey is far from over. Additional resources are needed to scale up mine clearance, expand municipal services, empower more women entrepreneurs, and accelerate governance reforms.