Women’s safety, access and agency in Central Bekaa: Lebanese and Syrian women across host, displaced and refugee communities

This gender brief examines how conflict and displacement have affected the safety, access to services, economic security, wellbeing, and agency of Lebanese and Syrian women across host, displaced, and refugee communities in Central Bekaa. Drawing on research conducted by UN Women, Women Now for Development, and Peace Labs in March–April 2026, it highlights the interconnected challenges women face, including protection risks, economic insecurity, restricted mobility, and barriers to services, while also documenting women’s role in supporting their families and communities and strengthening social cohesion. The brief concludes with recommendations for gender-responsive programming that addresses both shared and distinct needs and places women at the centre of recovery and response efforts.