The war between Israel and Hezbollah has forced more than a million people to flee their homes in Lebanon. Many displaced individuals now face heightened security and social risks as they navigate overcrowded shelters and temporary housing. Karim, a young gay man displaced from Dahiya, described the specific dangers he encounters while seeking safety. "I would be forced to live surrounded by homophobic men…" Karim said, noting the vulnerability of queer people within these communal living environments. Organizations providing aid report that the mass movement of residents has left many LGBTQ+ individuals without stable, safe, or accepting places to reside. The crisis has disrupted support networks and housing options for those fleeing high-conflict areas, leaving them to manage precarious living situations.
Barriers to State Shelter Access
Collective shelters in Lebanon often operate under admission criteria that prioritize traditional families, effectively excluding single individuals and marginalized groups. Karim stated, "I would rather die than go to a collective shelter." Sandy Mteirek, executive director of Helem, observed that the state response failed to accommodate diverse populations. "The national action plan implemented in response to the war was completely non-inclusive, not only for LGBT+ people, but also for single women, people with disabilities, and, generally, anyone who falls outside the norm," Mteirek said. Mteirek added, "Unfortunately, once again this year, the admission criteria for collective shelters have left a huge number of people without housing."
Helem responded to these gaps by opening three shelters during the 2024 conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. In addition to providing residential spaces, the organization adapted its operations to meet immediate needs. "In times of war, we became a daytime refuge," Mteirek said.
The MOSAIC organization is also managing two apartments in Beirut to provide shelter for LGBTQ+ individuals. Currently, sixteen people are living in these two apartments on a temporary basis. Karen, a social worker at the MOSAIC association, noted that existing state policies reflect long-standing administrative patterns. "The government didn’t wait for the war to neglect minorities," Karen stated.
Securing resources for these private initiatives remains a challenge for organizers. Bechara Samneh, director of the MOSAIC organization, noted that the facilities rely heavily on public contributions rather than state support. "For example, 80% of the furniture in our first apartment came from donations," Samneh said. "When a crisis hits, the community comes together to support each other!"
