The YWCA Lebanon and World YWCA Statement on the Attacks on the People of Lebanon
The YWCA Lebanon calls for the solidarity of the YWCA global movement, partner organisations, and worldwide support for lasting and equitable peace.
Mona Khauli, National Executive Director of YWCA Lebanon, shares:
“At a time when Lebanon is facing an unprecedented economic collapse, Israel’s massive offensive launched on Monday has resulted in the tragic loss of 700 lives, and the death toll continues to rise as Israel dismisses global calls for a ceasefire. Over 1,835 people have been injured. Ten of thousands of families have been forced to flee their homes in the Bekaa, South Lebanon regions and Beirut suburbs, and essential services are becoming increasingly scarce. More than 500,000 individuals are now displaced, including around 140,000 children from southern Lebanon who have been forced from their homes in the past four days. Schools have been hastily converted into shelters to accommodate the displaced population. The tragic reality is that Lebanese are already financially destitute owing to high inflation, lack of resources, and diminishing income, and they now have to find safe housing and pay extra to relocate which is sheer madness; nothing less than another “Gaza” genocide, with no restrictive measures whatsoever. Moreover, Israel is now promising another massive strike on Beirut.
The YWCA of Lebanon appeals to the international community to exert immediate pressure on all parties involved to cease hostilities and provide urgent humanitarian aid to address the dire needs of the Lebanese population. We strongly support initiatives aimed at achieving a lasting and equitable peace.”
The World YWCA and the global movement of millions of people work for peace with justice to prevent conflict, provide safe spaces, and work with governments and other actors to end structural violence and support survivors of violence – including meaningful participation of women and young women in leading peace processes.
At the 30th World YWCA Council in November 2023, the highest decision-making body of the global YWCA movement, adopted a resolution to promote human rights and supporting the Middle East region’s movements work towards sustainability.
The World YWCA supports YWCA Lebanon as they share witness of that impact and their appeal to the international community to exert immediate pressure on all parties involved to cease hostilities and provide urgent humanitarian aid to address the dire needs of the Lebanese people.
YWCA women have worked in conflict and post-conflict for more than a century to advocate for peace and justice in communities, countries, regions, and the world. We believe sustainable peace is only possible when women are fully involved in resolving conflict, and peace and security efforts.
To learn more about how to support YWCA Lebanon, please, contact: info@lebanonywca.org or lebywca@cyberia.net.lb
YWCA Lebanon social media links: Facebook – Instagram
Friday, September, 27, 2024