Syrian Labor in Lebanon: Refugees and workers

BACKGROUND: The Syrian Civil War has displaced over 1.16 million Syrians to Lebanon. This refugee population is living precariously in refugee camps, informal settlements, and other housing across the country. While aid agencies provide this population some support, there are shortfalls in access to basic necessities, including healthcare, education, and food stuffs. As a result, many Syrians work to adequately provide for their families. Syrians work in service, construction, transportation, restaurants, and the informal sector. These jobs are often low-paid, hazardous, insecure, and unprotected by Lebanese labor laws. Moreover, Syrians are competing with the Lebanese for jobs, causing increased tensions and discrimination.

METHODS: This research explores the work context of Lebanon's Syrian refugees. The author will conduct a desk review of gray literature and news reports on the topic. These texts will be coded based on relevant themes (i.e., 'refugee,' 'worker,' 'exploitation,' 'legal rights,' 'discrimination,' and 'occupational health') identified through the review. Data gathered will be synthesized into a comprehensive report on the work experiences of Syrian refugees in Lebanon.

Results: This paper will identify trends in work experiences of Syrian refugees, including workplace exploitation, discrimination, and occupational injury or illness. The paper will also report finding on the social experience of Syrian workers.

Discussion: The analysis will highlight the need for proactive government and civil society programs to protect the health and wellbeing of Syrian workers and their families. The author will propose a research agenda to support civil society organizations working to protect the livelihoods of Syrian refugees.