On August 4th, a huge explosion occurred in Lebanon's capital of Beirut killing at least 100 people and injuring more than 4,000.
Lebanon has been experiencing social, economic, political and health crises and due to COVID-19 and the explosion, the struggles have been exacerbated. Lebanon is not only trying to curb the spread of the coronavirus bit is also in an unprecedented economic situation that has pushed thousands into poverty and triggered large anti-government protests.
Lebanons economic situation has pushed thousands of people into poverty and triggered large anti-government protests.
Unemployment is at 25%
Public debt-to-gross domestic product was third highest in the world.
Currency is collapsing
Lebanese pound has lost 80% of its value over the past 10 months
Prices of goods has tripled
1/3 of the population living below the poverty line
Increase in suicides has been linked to the dire economic situation
Protests have escalated due to anger and frustration with the governments faliure to provide basic necessities. Dealing with daily power cuts, lack of safe drinking water, limited healthcare, and some of the worlds worst internet connection, the people of Lebanon are frustrated and want to see change.
October, the government proposed new taxes on tobacco, petrol, and voice calls via messaging services to increase their revenue, however backlash forced the plan to be cancelled. This problem has been here for years.
With the pandemic, the economic and healthcare crises have become much worse.Businesses forced to lay off staff - adding to unemployment. Banks have tightened capital control. The gap between the Lebanese pound's value on the official and black market exchange rates widened Families unable to buy necessities. Hospitals are turning off air conditioners to cut costs. Due to the explosion, the port of Beirut is at risk of shutting down, leading to a pause on food and medical supplies.
Article by Roshni Patel and Naomi Porter