LEBANON - The European Union will provide Lebanon with €505 million in financial support for 2026 and 2027, the European Commission announced, marking the second part of a €1 billion support package announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during her visit to Beirut in May 2024.

The new funding will focus on three main areas: maintaining essential services for vulnerable groups, supporting economic recovery and reforms, and strengthening security and border management. It will also help Lebanon respond to the effects of regional instability, conflict and displacement.

Essential Services and Vulnerable Groups

Part of the package will support access to education, healthcare, social protection and water services.

The funding will include cash assistance for vulnerable households and people with disabilities, as well as support for access to primary healthcare.

The EU will also support longer-term solutions for refugees from Syria, including safe, voluntary and dignified returns. At the same time, it will assist Lebanese authorities in gradually taking over and maintaining the provision of essential services.

Reform, Economic Recovery and Security

The second area of support will focus on Lebanon’s reform agenda, including the justice sector, oversight and regulatory bodies, Parliament and human rights.

EU assistance will also contribute to strengthening Lebanon’s security sector and border management. The package is intended to support the private sector’s ability to adapt and contribute to economic recovery, particularly in areas affected by conflict.

The funding comes as Lebanon continues to face economic and institutional challenges alongside the effects of regional conflict and displacement.

Civil Society and Cultural Heritage

The third area will support civil society organizations working on issues including women’s rights, youth, minorities and people with disabilities.

Funding will also support initiatives aimed at strengthening democratic participation, transparency and efforts to combat corruption.

In addition, the EU package will contribute to social cohesion and the protection of Lebanon’s cultural heritage.

Funding Announced at UN General Assembly

European Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Šuica announced the €505 million allocation in New York on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The funding forms part of the EU’s broader engagement with Lebanon and follows the €1 billion package announced by von der Leyen in 2024. The second tranche is intended to support reforms, economic recovery, essential services and security-related priorities over the 2026–2027 period.