Could Lebanon’s economic collapse create new humanitarian crisis? | Humanitarian Crises
Video Duration 25 minutes 40 seconds
Dozens of migrants drowned when their boat sank en route to Europe.
Lebanon’s economic downturn is prompting many to take dangerous sea voyages in search of a better life abroad.
Dozens of people drowned off the Syrian coast in the worst migrant boat capsizing this year.
The ship carrying up to 150 Lebanese, Syrian and Palestinian refugees and migrants has departed from Tripoli, the poorest city in Lebanon.
Many are said to have paid thousands of dollars to smugglers to get them to Europe.
Years of war, sectarian violence and corruption have led to Lebanon’s economic collapse.
The currency has lost 95% of its value and most people cannot buy food, clean water or medicine.
Is there anything that can stop people from taking adventurous boat trips?
Presenters: Imran Khan
Guest:
Zeina Mohanna – Board member, International Amel Association
Patrick Mardini – President and Founder, Lebanese Market Research Institute
Bente Scheller – Director, Middle East Office of the Heinrich Böll Foundation in Beirut