Lebanon’s Ministry of Social Affairs (MOSA) announced today the allocation of LBP 4.5 billion (approximately $5M) for social assistance from the 2024 national budget. These funds will provide a one-off cash transfer of US$100 to people with disabilities holding a valid Personal Disability Card (PDC). This initiative aims to respond to the specific needs of people with disabilities during the massive displacement crisis and humanitarian needs caused by the armed conflict. This initiative falls under the implementation of the national social protection strategy, which is funded by the European Union, the Kingdom of Netherlands, the United Kingdom and other donors, and supported by UNICEF and the International Labor Organization (ILO).

During the conference, Minister of Social Affairs Dr. Hector Hajjar announced that “450 billion Lebanese pounds (equivalent to approximately $5 million) will be allocated for the first time, to be disbursed for emergency social assistance from the budget allocated to the Ministry of Social Affairs for the year 2024.” He explained that “this amount will provide a one-time cash transfer, worth the equivalent of USD 100, to all persons with disabilities who hold an unexpired personal disability card. This initiative is an expression of the commitment of the Lebanese government to provide social protection for its citizens.”

The ministry also announced that the National Disability Allowance (NDA) will be renewed until September 2025 in partnership with UNICEF and the ILO with additional funding from the European Union and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This will ensure that people with disabilities (born between 1994 and 2009) will continue receiving their $40 monthly allowance, especially in times of crisis where a growing number of individuals are unable to afford basic services and commodities.