The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) commissioned ITAR Consultants to conduct an in-depth review of the Lebanese diaspora’s humanitarian and recovery efforts following the Israeli military offensive against Hezbollah in September 2024. This study builds on a previous mapping of over 126 diaspora organisations responding to the crisis and aimed to enhance understanding of their role in humanitarian and reconstruction efforts. Specifically, the evaluation aimed to:
- Identify and assess diaspora-led recovery and reconstruction initiatives post-ceasefire;
- Explore the interaction between Lebanese civil society organisations (CSOs) and diaspora organisations, including successes and challenges in collaboration;
- Examine the potential for improved coordination between diaspora actors across different regions, generations, and sectors; and
- Provide recommendations for strengthening diaspora-led humanitarian action and its integration into the broader humanitarian response in Lebanon.
To achieve these objectives, the evaluation included:
- Updating the online mapping of Lebanese diaspora organisations, focusing on shifts from emergency response to recovery and reconstruction;
- Key Informant Interviews with diaspora organisations, CSOs in Lebanon, and other key stakeholders;
- Analysis of diaspora coordination efforts, partnerships with local actors, and capacity development needs; and
- A final review workshop to validate findings and refine recommendations.
Findings of the study will inform strategies for enhancing diaspora engagement in Lebanon’s long-term recovery, with a focus on sustainability, coordination, and localisation.
