The "Asharq Al-Awsat" newspaper reported that the Ministry of Social Affairs will start distributing social aid to 150,000 eligible families next week, amidst rising unemployment levels and political stagnation in addressing economic and social crises. This situation has led to increased criticism of the Lebanese authorities, notably from MP Ni'ma Tohme, who stated that the measures do not match the scale of ongoing disasters.
Social Affairs Minister Hector Hajjar confirmed after meeting with President Michel Aoun that payment to eligible families under the social programs led by his ministry "will begin progressively next week for 150,000 families," emphasizing "full commitment to the criteria set by the ministry and the ministerial committee," with transparency being a key factor.
The Lebanese government has three internationally supported local programs for providing social aid to the most vulnerable groups in Lebanon: the "Amman" program, the "Support" program, and the "Cash Card" program. These initiatives aim to help tens of thousands of Lebanese families survive the ongoing economic and living crisis.
The Lebanese presidency stated that Hajjar updated Aoun on the latest steps regarding the "Support" program and determined the timing for payments under the "Amman" program. They also consulted on issues for the cabinet meeting scheduled for today, particularly concerning the return of Syrians. Hajjar noted that Aoun "insisted on the necessity of expediting the delivery of funds to beneficiaries of the social programs led by the Ministry of Social Affairs." He announced that the payment will begin next week, pointing out that the process "will be progressive for 150,000 families." He specified that families would receive $20 for each child up to six children, and $25 per family. Thus, a family of eight, with six children, would receive $120 for the children and $25 for the family, totaling $145, with each family benefiting according to the number of members.
He mentioned that the criteria for the "Amman" program include those with elderly individuals, special needs, or unsuitable housing that cannot accommodate many people, in addition to other criteria like having no monthly income, as the first phase.
This announcement comes amid a political failure to revive the economy, which raises further criticism. MP Ni'ma Tohme lamented the ongoing financial, economic, and life collapse, stating that the current measures do not align with the scale of continuous disasters. He expressed concern that the responsible parties seem detached from the reality of people's suffering, highlighting issues such as difficulties in obtaining hospital access, school and university tuition, and basic heating and migration challenges.
Tohme criticized the absence of state leaders, claiming that arbitrary and random policies to address the cumulative crises continued to prevail without a clear vision for practical and scientific solutions. He asserted that "the time has come for an economic, social, and health state of emergency across all sectors before total chaos ensues, as matters have spiraled out of control, and the Lebanese citizen is fed up with the state, government, and officials."
He evaluated the country's condition as deteriorating, alleging that decision-makers are preoccupied with electoral polls while the populace suffers significantly. He noted that campaigns of insults and escalation toward the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continue, despite its humanitarian efforts to assist all Lebanese through humanitarian and civil organizations, stating that there is no trust in government institutions.
Tohme emphasized that Saudi Arabia, regardless of the systematic escalation it is facing, has proven through actions that it has not abandoned Lebanon, maintaining a relationship of goodwill and appreciation unmatched by its officials. He called for an end to the escalation against Riyadh, reminding that Saudi Arabia has been instrumental in stopping wars in Lebanon, facilitating the Taif Agreement, and aiding in its reconstruction multiple times. He appreciated the objective approach reflected in the recent interview with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, considering it a roadmap for all Arab and international crises, indicating a profound insight into surrounding global developments.
