The plague of street children and begging in Lebanon is a deeply concerning issue that weighs heavily on society. Beyond its humanitarian dimension, this situation also raises economic, social, and security challenges that require in-depth analysis to identify viable solutions.

Child Begging in Lebanon- why?

Several factors have contributed to the rise of this phenomenon, including:

1. The Economic Crisis: For several years, Lebanon has been facing a severe economic crisis marked by financial collapse, deteriorating living conditions, and rising unemployment. This situation has particularly affected the poorest families, who struggle to meet their children’s basic needs, forcing some of them to take to the streets to beg or engage in hard labor.

2. Political and Security Instability: The country suffers from chronic instability due to internal political tensions and regional conflicts, further complicating the social landscape. Many children from displaced or migrant families due to wars find themselves abandoned in the streets, often falling victim to exploitation.

3. Family Disintegration: Social tensions, domestic violence, and divorces contribute to family breakdown. Some children end up abandoned or left to fend for themselves, pushing them towards begging. In other cases, economic hardships force some parents to exploit their children for survival.

4. Illiteracy and Extreme Poverty: Many families lack access to education and healthcare, significantly limiting their children’s future prospects. Without education or skills, these children are often forced to turn to the streets to survive.

5. A Worrying Reality: More Than 1,500 Children in the Streets

According to some estimates, over 1,500 children in Lebanon are involved in begging. These children are particularly visible in urban areas, such as Beirut and its suburbs, as well as in rural regions affected by extreme poverty. The phenomenon is especially alarming in the Bekaa Valley and southern Lebanon, where many Palestinian and Syrian refugee camps are concentrated. These children, coming from extremely disadvantaged backgrounds, often become part of the cheap labor force in the informal economy.

Where Are they?

Begging children can be seen in various strategic locations in major cities, including:

1. Shopping Centers and Popular Markets: High-traffic areas where children seek the generosity of passersby.

2. Main Roads and Highways: Many children approach cars at traffic lights or weave between vehicles to beg.

3. Tourist Areas: In cities like Beirut and Byblos, children take advantage of the presence of visitors to elicit their sympathy.

4. Near Universities and Schools: These locations, frequented by students, provide a strategic opportunity for children to collect donations.

What Solutions?

Fighting child begging requires an integrated approach that combines social protection, education access, and economic development.

NGOs play a crucial role in this fight. One such organization is Lebanese Spotlight, which is actively involved in community work. In an exclusive statement to Al Safa News, Noor Naqach, the organization’s secretary-general, explains:

“Our mission is to serve the community by offering volunteer opportunities to young people, helping them develop their skills and human potential.”

She adds:

“We have a specific program for children in need of education, particularly those of different nationalities who attend evening schools or are not enrolled at all. We teach them the basics of mathematics, Arabic, and English according to their level.”

The organization has also launched the “Safe Port” program, active in the Qasqas and Karm el-Aris neighborhoods, which aims to educate children on protection and abuse prevention through interactive activities.

Additionally, the "Mayyel" program is dedicated to people over 60 in Mar Mikhaël and Ras el-Nabeh, highlighting the organization’s commitment to vulnerable populations.

Other Strategies

Beyond NGO efforts, several measures can be considered to combat this issue:

1. Strengthening Educational and Awareness Programs: Greater investment is needed in free, accessible education for children at risk of begging.

2. Supporting Underprivileged Families: The government should implement financial assistance programs, such as food subsidies or microloans, to ease the burden on struggling families.

3. Rehabilitating Street Children: Shelters must be developed to provide proper healthcare, psychological support, and education for these children.

4. Enforcing Strict Laws Against Forced Begging: Legal measures should be enacted to punish those who exploit minors for begging.

5. Collaborating with International Organizations: A coordinated effort between local NGOs and international child protection agencies could help develop more effective strategies.

6. Creating Job Opportunities for Youth and Families: Addressing child begging also requires improving economic conditions and opening new employment opportunities for families.

A Structural Problem Requiring Long-Term Solutions

The phenomenon of child begging in Lebanon reflects a broader social crisis fueled by economic collapse and political instability. While NGO initiatives and humanitarian aid programs provide essential support, only a cohesive public policy, combined with genuine reform efforts, can effectively combat this issue and offer a better future for these abandoned children.