The Nahr el-Bared refugee camp, located 16 kilometers south of Tripoli, suffered significant damage and was destroyed in 2007. This event led to the displacement of more than 27,000 residents and the extensive destruction of homes, infrastructure, and the UNRWA compound. The camp housed a diverse population, primarily Palestinians, who were already grappling with ongoing humanitarian difficulties, further exacerbated by their forced displacement. The arrival of Syrian and Palestinian refugees displaced from Syria due to the ongoing crisis added an additional burden.
The historical context of the camp, combined with the profound impact of its destruction on its inhabitants, has contributed to a web of complexities and hardships experienced by its residents. Despite more than a decade having passed since the event, a significant portion of the community remains displaced and heavily reliant on assistance from the UNRWA.
Based on the official Population and Housing Census of Palestinian Camps and Gatherings in Lebanon of July 2017, the total population of NAHR EL-BARED camp was found to be 9470 individuals, with 96.1% identified as Palestinian and the remaining 3.9% representing other nationalities. Whereas UNRWA figures indicate 47,807 registered persons in NAHR EL-BARED camp, the total number of UNRWA-registered Palestinian Refugees in Lebanon has reached 489,292 individuals as of March 2023.
WPA NAHR EL-BARED Center
Our center comprises a single floor offering a variety of facilities and implementing projects. This floor hosts our community kitchen, fostering empowerment and togetherness through shared meal preparation. On the same floor we provide a gym for girls, promoting accessible fitness and physical well-being. Within our establishment, we boast three classroom-style rooms catering to the needs of our young community members. Additionally, on the same floor, we have a dedicated area where social services support and case management is provided. Complementing our indoor facilities is a spacious garden, utilized by the youth for recreational activities and play.
In 2022, over 8,139 youth and women benefited from our diverse services at WPA Nahr El Bared center. We are actively involved in several projects that positively contribute to the community.