Tying the Cross-Cultural Knot Empowered lives. Resilient nations. Uncovering Perceptions on Lebanese- Syrian Intermarriages: The cases of Tleil (Akkar) & Qobbe (Tripoli) Conflict Analysis Report – March 2019

Supported by: This report was written by an independent researcher as part of a conflict analysis consultancy for the UNDP “Peace Building in ” Project to inform and support UNDP Lebanon programming, as well as interventions from other partners in the framework of the Lebanon Crisis Response Plan (LCRP). Through these reports, UNDP is aiming at providing quality analysis to LCRP Partners on the evolution of local dynamics, highlighting how local and structural issues have impacted and interacted with the consequences of the Syrian crisis in Lebanon. This report has been produced with the support of the Department for International Development (UKDFID). For any further information, please contact directly: Tom Lambert, UNDP Social Stability Sector Coordinator at [email protected], Fadel Saleh, UNDP Conflict Analyst at [email protected] and Joanna Nassar, UNDP “Peace Building in Lebanon” Project Manager at [email protected]

Report written by Bilal Al Ayoubi The views expressed in this publication are solely those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the views of UNDP, nor its partners. UNDP © 2019 All rights reserved. Cover Photo © UNDP Lebanon, 2019 Empowered lives. Resilient nations.

Tying the Cross-Cultural Knot Uncovering Perceptions on Lebanese- Syrian Intermarriages: The cases of Tleil (Akkar) & Qobbe (Tripoli) Conflict Analysis Report – March 2019

Supported by:

1 Table of Contents Acronyms...... 3 Executive Summary...... 4 Introduction...... 4 Objectives...... 5 Methodology...... 5 General Context...... 5 Lebanese-Syrian Intermarriage: The Absence of Official Data...... 5 Demography...... 6 Geographic Context...... 8 Tleil in Akkar:...... 8 Economic Situation...... 8 Social Situation...... 9 Security Situation...... 9 Qobbe in Tripoli...... 9 Economic Situation...... 10 Social Situation...... 10 Security Situation...... 10 Key Findings...... 11 Perceptions on Lebanese-Syrian mixed marriages: The cases of Tleil and Qobbe...... 11 Perceptions about legal and religious frameworks...... 11 Push and Pull Factors...... 12 An Opportunity for Social Stability or a Trigger for Tension?...... 13 Recommendations...... 14 Annexes...... 15

2 Acronyms

DFID Department for International Development

FGD Focus Group Discussion

HRW Human Rights Watch

INGO International Non-Governmental Organization

ISF Lebanese Internal Security Forces

LAF Lebanese Armed Forces

NGO Non-Governmental Organizations

UN United Nations

UNDP United Nations Development Programme

UNHCR United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

3 I. Executive Summary social stability, aims to uncover perceptions of stakeholders from Tleil in Akkar and in the Qobbe This report explores the perceptions of refugees, neighbourhood of Tripoli. The study also seeks to host communities and other stakeholders identify and understand a number of potential regarding mixed marriages between members of factors that may trigger such perceptions. Lebanese and Syrian communities in Lebanon. More specifically, the study focuses on the village Despite significant differences between the rural of Tleil in Akkar and the neighbourhood of Qobbe border village of Tleil and the congested urban in Tripoli based on reports which cite intermarriage neighbourhood of Qobbe, both communities share in these areas. one common reality: they host proportionally high numbers of Syrian refugees. According to the Our research seeks to provide insight into tensions municipality, estimates place 1,400 Lebanese in which arise as a result of these intercommunity Tleil and approximately 1,200 Syrian refugees, of marriages, with evidence to suggest that there which 843 are registered with the United Nations are regional variances in these perceptions. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).1 Thus, whilst some communities may think that In Qobbe, it is more difficult to determine the intermarriage triggers dispute, others believe number of Lebanese residents since many are not that it can enhance social stability and improve originally from Tripoli, but the UN Habitat Tripoli communication between groups. The report Profile approximated 80,000 residents to be of also highlights the vulnerabilities of women Lebanese origin, of which 7,200 were registered and girls who may be forced into intermarriage refugees.2 relationships, and also discusses growing instances of polygamy in some areas. Further research is required to understand the conditions in which intercommunity marriage To mitigate tensions caused by intermarriage, facilitates reduced tensions between refugee and the report recommends further study in order host communities. These marriages have united to obtain accurate data on the phenomenon and people from Lebanon and Syria, creating bonds to facilitate meaningful sharing of information that have in turn encouraged many communities thereafter. Furthermore, to protect vulnerable to welcome refugees. However, the economic women and girls affected by intermarriage, the and legal vulnerabilities of Syrian refugees, report recommends to advocate for greater particularly young girls, places them at higher risk protection laws and to empower women to of abuse, exploitation and forced marriage. This create positive change. Additionally, because report examines the perceived scale of Lebanese- intermarriage is heavily associated with religion, Syrian mixed marriage, and the impact at both work with religious institutions is advised in order community and individual levels, particularly for to prevent exploitation. women and girls. II. Introduction This Conflict Analysis Report forms part of a 1 UNHCR (2018). Syrian Refugee Response: LEBANON, Akkar series of research studies, commissioned by the Governroate. Distribution of the Registered Syrian Refugees at United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) the Cadastral Level. Available at: https://data2.unhcr.org/en/docu- and funded by United Kingdom’s Department ments/download/68129 for International Development (UKDFID). The 2 UNHCR (2018). Syrian Refugee Response: LEBANON, North research, exploring the prevalence of Lebanese- Lebanon Governroate. Distribution of the Registered Syrian Refu- Syrian mixed marriage and its impact on gees at the Cadastral Level. Available at: https://data2.unhcr.org/en/ documents/download/68132

4 III. Objectives – Syrian marriages, and stakeholders from the neighborhood of Qobbe and The report attempts to answer the following the village of Tleil including four local questions: businessowners, six Syrian refugees, 1) To what extent do stakeholders (host and five local NGO staff members. communities, refugees and municipal b. Two focus group discussions with representatives) believe that there are Lebanese and Syrian youth from in growing tensions as a result of Lebanese- Qobbe. Syrian intermarriage in their communities? 2) Secondary Data: Background research and a. In what ways do they believe tensions analysis: Review UNDP reports related to are manifesting or will evolve in Tripoli and Akkar, with information derived future? from the Mechanism for Social Stability (MSS) b. Why do they think this is important processes as they pertain knowing that both (or not) in terms of impact on social communities were part of the Mechanisms. stability? Other open-source documents, research 2) Perception vs. Reality: How do stakeholders papers, and background material were describe their knowledge about reviewed to better understand the context intermarriage? and dynamics related to the Lebanese- Syrian mixed marriages. a. How do they define it? b. Do they personally know a Lebanese- General Context Syrian couple or these general perceptions? Lebanese-Syrian Intermarriage: The Absence of Official Data 3) In their opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing women involved in Tensions caused by Lebanese-Syrian intermarriage intermarriages? Similarly, what are the have been reported in Lebanon since 2014, when biggest challenges faced by the couple, their the Trend Analysis of Participatory Assessment (PA) families and the wider community? Reports conducted by UNHCR found that women 4) Do respondents perceive any positive felt these relationships led to intercommunity outcomes of intermarriages? If yes, what tension.3 More recently, in 2016 and 2017, Syrian are they, and what is their impact on the women reported high levels of discrimination with relationship between refugees and the host many host communities expressing distrust and community? an unwillingness to engage with refugees, partly due to a sense of insecurity cultivated by the

Methodology large influx of refugees. In 2016, young Lebanese The research methodology of this report consists people reported that tensions had increased of the following: and that they were “concerned of sexual/verbal harassment perpetrated against Lebanese 1) Primary Data: women, Syrian-Lebanese intermarriages and child a. Twenty Three key informant marriage among Syrian girls to Lebanese men.”4 interviews with the mayor of Tleil,

civil affairs lawyer, mukhtar, two heads 3 UNHCR Lebanon (2018). Trend Analysis of Participatory Assess- of local NGOs, INGO local field officer, ment (PA) Reports: A timeline of key events reported by persons of UN agency local field staff member, concern from 2012 to 2017. a sheikh engaged in mixed Lebanese 4 Ibid.

5 This literature review gathers information on the the same negativity as in previous decades when perceptions about mixed marriages in Lebanon, Palestinian refugees resettled in Lebanon. These finding that such relationships simultaneously concerns are most notable in rhetoric which increase and reduce tensions between refugees calls for refugees to return to Syria even before a and host communities. This fluctuation is political settlement takes place there. dependent on factors such as cultural parallels, The in the north of Lebanon has geographical area, religious homogeneity and rarely observed such cultural tension, since many socioeconomic status. No study has yet focused traditions are common to both predominantly specifically on intercommunity marriage between Sunni populations.9 However, in addition to Syrian and Lebanese individuals, thus it is difficult settling in cities and villages according to their to estimate the scale of the phenomenon. religious beliefs, many Syrian refugees make their However, according to an ARK perception decisions based on social class. For instance, survey, the number of people who believe that refugees with middle or upper class status often intermarriage is a primary source of tension has choose to settle in or its suburbs, whilst 5 increased by 10 per cent from WAVE I to WAVE IV. refugees from more marginalized backgrounds Demography have settled in cities or towns close to the Syria- Lebanon border10 with many now residing in One study conducted in Wadi Khaled, Akkar, found Tripoli’s poorest neighbourhoods such as Bab al- that factors enhancing social stability between Tabbaneh11 Tensions are further compounded refugees and host communities were often linked by additional socioeconomic dimensions since to shared histories between these neighbouring many wealthy Lebanese business or landowners groups.6 At the beginning of the crisis, these have benefitted from the influx of refugees, whilst refugees were welcomed by many because of the poorer host communities have suffered. shared history and culture between Wadi Khaled and Syria, family ties and empathy for those Intermarriage is also known to cause tensions persecuted by the Syrian regime.7 Whilst these in Syrian communities where there is a strong social bonds have encouraged many Lebanese to preference for intracommunity marriages, welcome Syrian refugees to their communities, leading some Syrian women to accept or choose 12 negative perceptions continue to rise as the polygamous relationships with a Syrian husband.

situation is exacerbated by ongoing conflict in 9 Syria.8 Locals raised concerns that history may CARE International (2018). Syrian Refugees in Lebanon Eight Years On: What works and why that matters for the future? Ac- repeat itself, and that they would experience cessed on 1.3.2019. Available at https://www.care-international.org/

5 files/files/CAREInternationalLebanon_RefugeesinLebanon_What- Ark & UNDP “Regular Perception Surveys on Social Tensions worksandwhythatmattersforthefuture.pdf throughout Lebanon” WAVE I and IV 10 Thorleifsson, C. (2016). The limits of hospitality: coping strategies 6 The Lebanese Center for Policy Studies (2018). Building peace among displaced . Third World Quarterly, 37, into refugee responses. Syrian refugees in Lebanon. Accessed 1071-1082. on 2.3.2019. Available at https://www.kpsrl.org/sites/default/ 11 Lebanon Support (2016). The conflict context in Tripoli: Chronic files/2018-08/Building%20peace%20into%20refugee%20respons- neglect, increased poverty, & leadership crisis. Conflict Analysis Re� es%2028-8.pdf port. Accessed on 4.3.2019. Available at https://civilsociety-centre. 7 Ismail, K., Wilson, C. & Cohen-Fournier, N. (2017). Syrian refu- org/sites/default/files/resources/ls-car-nov2016-tripoli_0.pdf gees in Tripoli, Lebanon. Feinstein International Center. Accessed 12 House of Peace (2017). Customs & Traditions: Connectors or on 4.3.2019. Available at http://fic.tufts.edu/assets/Tripoli-FI- Dividers for Syrian Refugees in Lebanon? Syrian Voices Paper. NAL-5-July.pdf Accessed on 1.3.2019. Available at https://data2.unhcr.org/fr/docu- 8 Sup7. ments/download/54481

6 Increased polygamy is considered to be a cause of negative perceptions seem to arise from the idea tension by both Syrian and Lebanese communities, that Syrian women are often identified as less in addition to early and/or forced marriages demanding than their Lebanese counterparts,20 or between Syrian girls and older Lebanese men.13 In are more likely to work in brothels and/or seek a the case of the latter, Syrian girls are often married divorce.21 Similar stereotypes were expressed in young due to their economic vulnerability14 but, a study that explored coping strategies amongst according to Dr. Imad, there is no data to verify Syrian refugees, in which a number of Lebanese these early marriages despite discussions of informants suggested that Syrian women lack the phenomenon taking place. In general, early morals, often found throwing themselves at marriages amongst Syrians have become more men or stealing husbands.22 Indeed, the media prevalent as a negative coping mechanism which exacerbates such inaccurate perceptions, with results from forced displacement.15 In many one outlet underscoring misinformation about families, early marriage is considered a protective the percentage of unmarried women in Lebanon measure against (Sexual) Gender-Based Violence, which has been reported as 85 per cent but of which the risk is considered to be higher in is actually closer to 32 per cent23 In reality, Lebanon than in Syria. Financial pressures may such prejudices are strongly linked to legal and also lead a family to marry off their young girls economic vulnerabilities. As a result of the greater soon after they arrive in Lebanon, with some mobility restrictions placed on Syrian men, women girls forced to marry young as a means to escape are more likely to find work and are thus more difficult living conditions or a lack of freedom at publicly visible; adding to the perception that they home.16 are less conservative than Lebanese women.24

According to a Fafo survey conducted in 2013, Many also believe that humanitarian agencies 82 per cent of Lebanese respondents would have unfairly provided support targeted solely at feel uncomfortable marrying a Syrian,17 with refugees, and although many organizations have such relationships linked to moral concerns since adapted their strategies to also support host including men divorcing their wives for Syrian communities, the negative perception persists. As 18 19 women or marrying a second wife. These a result, refugees are often verbally and physically

13 harassed and often experience violence at the Sup7. 25 14 hands of host communities. Indeed, the ARK- Ibid UNDP perception survey indicated that almost 15 Imad, A.G. (2017). The Problematics of Mixed Marriages be- 30 per cent of Syrians have experienced ‘verbal tween Persons of Different Religions, Denominations and Na- harassment’.26 Furthermore, there is greater tionalities. The Peacebuilding in Lebanon. Accessed on 27.2.2019. competition for employment and the crisis is Available at http://www.lb.undp.org/content/dam/lebanon/docs/ CrisisPreventionRecovery/SupplementArticles/17Supp/PEACE%20 20 BUILDING%2017%20ENG%20p6.pdf Ibid. 21 16 Bartels, S. A., Michael, S., Roupetz, S., Garbern, S., Kilzar, L., Ibid. Bergquist, H., & Bunting, A. (2018). Making sense of child, early 22 Sup11. . ما حقيقة معدل “العنوسة” البالغ %85يف لبنان؟ .(and forced marriage among Syrian refugee girls: a mixed methods 23 Lebanon 24 (2019 study in Lebanon. BMJ Global Health, 3, e000509. Available at: https://bit.ly/2VmdAOJ 17 Christophersen, M., Liu, J., Thorleifsson, C. M., & Tiltnes, A. A. 24 Sup7. (2013). Lebanese attitudes towards Syrian refugees and the Syrian 25 Sup10. crisis. Results from a National Opinion Poll. FAFO Paper, (13). 26 Ark & UNDP “Regular Perception Surveys on Social Tensions 18 Sup15. throughout Lebanon” WAVE IV, September 2015 https://data2. 19 Sup7 unhcr.org/en/documents/download/67048

7 placing additional strain on already limited public Geographic Context services, particularly in poorer host communities. Tleil and Qobbe were chosen as the focus localities It seems, then, that intercommunity marriage of this research because they were referenced in is relatively rare, and that the phenomenon is in the Participatory Assessment of Syrian Refugees fact exaggerated in some communities. Accurate in Lebanon conducted by UNHCR in 2017, which data could reduce tensions and challenge this cited perceptions of, or incidents related to, misconception.27 Interestingly, a collaborative Lebanese-Syrian mixed marriages. assessment conducted by UNHCR and REACH in Akkar found that the relationship between refugees Tleil in Akkar: and host communitiesSY variedRIA RbetweenEFU villages:GE ETleil R isE locatedSPO in NtheS AkkarE Governorate in North In some villages, refugeesLEB AandN hostON ,communities Akkar G oLebanon.verno r Nestledate in Middle Dreib, the area did not engage withD oneist another,ributio whilstn of tinh eothers Reg isexperiencedtered Sy rhighian tension Refu gate thees startat t hofe the C aSyriandas tral Level As o f 31 D e ce mb e r 20 1 8 relationships were characterizedAKKAR by a high level uprising, and as a result of indiscriminate attacks

Dayret Nahr El-Kabir of interaction, often as a resultTotal Nofo . oearlierf Hous epositivehold Re goniste rvillagesed 25 ,3such25 as Debbabiyeh and El Noura. Its 1,863 Total No. of Individuals Registered 105,612 contact between the populations. Indeed, one proximity to the Syrian border gives it a strategic Lebanese FGD participant acknowledged stronger location, overlooking Syrian plains and connecting relationships between the two communities as a Sahel Akkar to Upper Dreib and Qobayyat.

Machta Hammoud 28 2,383 Aabboudiye result of more intermarriages inSamm atheqiye area. 262 AAridet Cheikh Zennad 780 Janine Khalsa 8 Hokr Ed-Dahri 8 7 10 Kfar Noun Aaouaainat Aakkar Dibbabiye 13 63 6 Noura Et-Tahta Qarha Aakkar Chir Hmairine 49 Tall Hmayra 19 Tall Bire 1,358 A study conducted by CARE International found 202 Qachlaq 39 18 Rmah Cheikhlar Aamayer Kneisset Aakkar Srar Fraydes Aakkar Mounjez 16 42 12,984 Hnaider 155 3 Cheikh Zennad 41 Massaaoudiye 24 1,246 397 115 Aamaret El-Baykat that shared concerns between refugees and host Ouadi El-Haour 512 Darine 163 1,528 243 Haytla Saadine 15 Baghdadi 703 882 Aamriyet Aakkar communities, specifically for their children and Mazraat En-Nahriye 46 Tall Meaayan Tall Kiri Tall Aabbas Ech-Charqi 801 Kneisset Hnaider 1,337 744 Ghazayle Tleil 1,216 Barde 190 843 Qleiaat Aakkar 11 negative coping strategies, could825 help to reduce Biret Aakkar Aain Ez-Zeit Kafr Saidnaya Hayssa 7 22 4,577 Haouchab 5 2,271 Aain Tinta Khirbet Daoud Aakkar 188 29 22 2,080 Koueikhat Tall Aabbas El-Gharbi tensions. One activity that targeted the issue of Rihaniyet Aakkar Douair Aadouiye Qbaiyat 624 1,930 607 127 Khirbet Char P! 58 113 Sfinet Ed-Draib Sindianet Zeidane 20 Hmaiss Aakkar Berbara Aakkar 381 intermarriage directly was heldRmoul in , where 4 24 26 Sammouniye Aandqet Qaabrine Hokr Etti 519 354 Majdel Akkar 390 260 332 Khreibet Ej-Jindi Deir Jannine Knisse a collaborative project between UNDP and KfW 2,012 Kfar Harra 69 275 34 Hedd 6 Mqaiteaa 1,347 Kfar Melki Aakkar Kroum El-Aarab 520 Souaisset Aakkar Balde WaMazraatBalde Mazareaa Jabal Akroum facilitated a series of workshops for Lebanese Halba 306 65 111 Qbaiyat Aakkar 5,566 Tall Sebaal 7,370 303 Cheikh Taba Es-Sahl 448 32 Hayzouq 4 124 Beino 353 Daouret Aakkar and Syrian women to address tensions related to Halba Machha 403 Semmaqli 274 Aarqa P! 1,305 1,241 Jdidet Ej-Joumeh 54 Dahr Laissine Aaiyat Qoubber Chamra 165 both intermarriage and polygamy.2,788 The workshopsMiny ara 218 1,022 Zouarib Cheikh Taba Beit MellatTallet Chattaha Borj Aakkar Aamaret Aakkar 8 88 Idbil 14 3 119 109 129 Aayoun Aakkar 19 Chaqdouf Aakkar El-Aatiqa 156 taught sewing skills, encouraged culturalDeir Dalloum exchange 1,432 Karm Aasfour 2,638 Jebrayel 4 FigureQantarat Aakkar 1. A map showing Tleil location as part of Zouq El Hosniye 158 Aain Yaaqoub 33 30 115 Ilat 345 El Aabdé Zouq El-Moqachrine 139 and raised awareness of human rights.2 Zouq El-Hbalsa Tikrit P! 516 Ouadi El-Jamous Mar Touma 5 the Middle Dreib area of Akkar Bezbina 1,725 Zouq El-Hadara 55 474 51 Bqerzla Mhammaret 370 7,519 Menneaa Majdala Rahbe 6 6,571 833 187 Tshea Houaich 25 Hmaire Aakkar Economic Situation 80 14 Qardaf 347 Dinbou berqayel Sayssouq 49 3,669 5 Like most ofC hane Akkar, Tleil lacks investment in 37 Qraiyat 27 Beit El-Haouch 17 Sup15. 13 agriculture, but small pockets of productivityFnaP!ydek do Beit Younes Aayoun El-Ghizlane 28 Beit Ayoub 28 UNHCR & REACH (2014). Lebanese Communities27 Hosting Syr- materialize, and dairy and poultry24 farming are Bzal Habchit Fnaydeq 57 26 1,234 Jdeidet El-Qaitaa ian Refugees: Akkar Governorate - Lebanon.180 Assessment Report. present but limited. AsHrar a result of hardships facing 930 Sfaynet El-Qaitaa 129 Qabaait Accessed on 1.3.2019. Available at https://data2.unhcr.org/fr/docu- these413 small producers, many young people from

ments/download/41553 Michmich Aakkar the village seek employment in the916 public sector, 29 Sup10. often joining the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) or 30 UNDP (2016). Lebanese and Syrian Women of Akroum Sewing Internal Security Forces (ISF), and other private New Friendships. Peace Building in Lebanon. Accessed on 4.3.2019. sector companies out-with the region. Notes Location Diagram Available at https://www.alnap.org/system/files/content/resource/ Akkar This map has been produced by the Inter-Agency Information Management Unit of Legend UNHCR based on maps and material provided by the Government of Lebanon for files/main/undp-newsletter-web-en.pdfoperational purposes. It does not constitute an official United Nations map. The No. of Refugees per Cadastral Governorate North designations employed and the presentation of material on this map do not imply the 2 - 100 Caza expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Secretariat of the United -El Nations concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. 101 - 1,000 Cadastral Boundary 1,001 - 3,000 P! Main Towns Data Sources: Beirut 8 - Lebanese Border, Caza and Cadastral Boundaries: NPMPLT 2005. 3,001 - 5,000 - Geographic Projection WGS 1984 5,001 - 7,500 Bekaa Registered Refugees Figures by UNHCR as of 31 December 2018. For more information contact Diana El Habr at [email protected] 7,501 - 13,160

GIS and Mapping by UNHCR. For Information and updates ± El Nabatieh contact Jad Ghosn: [email protected] South Maroun Sader: [email protected] 0 5 10 KM NPMPLT: National Physical Master Plan for the Lebanese Territory Social Situation arrested for transporting arms.33 However, since fighting stopped on the other side of the border Tleil was traditionally characterized by a class four years ago, the security situation has improved divide between farmers and landowners, but with markedly. increased access to education, better employment opportunities and resources, this divide is no Qobbe in Tripoli: longer a major influence on social relationships. The Qobbe neighbourhood in Tripoli overlooks Nevertheless, traditional thinking often permeates Bab El Tabbeneh, one of the poorest communities at critical milestones such as municipal elections. in Lebanon. Indeed, Qobbe shares many Sectarianism is another highly divisive and sociocultural and political characteristics with sensitive matter in Tleil, where the village is Bab El Tabbeneh, including a long and unsettled comprised of around 1,450 individuals who mainly history of conflict from the follow Christianity and who are divided across and the Syrian Army occupation. This ultimately three sects: The majority are Greek Orthodox, and lay the foundations for more than 20 sectarian others are Catholic and Maronite. Each sect has clashes between Sunnis and Alawites living in various churches, institutions and gatherings but Qobbe, Bab El Tabbeneh, Mankoubeen and Wadi el Nahle. Each neighbourhood was at the forefront since most of them work outside Tleil or Akkar, of sectarian clashes from 2008 to 2014, ultimately fewer actually reside in the village. The outskirts of impacting on socioeconomic conditions, and the village are home to around 1,450 Muslims, of SYRIA REFUGEE RESPOdrasticallyNS affectingE infrastructure and services. which there are 843 Syrian refugees31 and around Qobbe is in fact home to the predominantly Alawite LEBANON 600 N Lebaneseorth nationals Gov note originallyrno rfromat Tleil.e,32 Tripoli, , Bcharreh, El Koura, El Minieh-Dennieh, Zgharta Districts (T+5) neighbourhood Jabal Mohsen, and so former Most of these Lebanese families are from the fault lines stretched from the Riva frontline to Al Distributionsurrounding of th villagese R whoe gboughtist ore rentedred lands S yrian Refugees at the Cadastral Level As of 31 December 2018 Omari, passing by Bakkar, Amerkan and Qobbe on the main road and later used to host large Residential Housing Complex (Hariri Compound). numbers of Syrian refugees. This demographic Trablous Ez-Zahrieh Rihaniyet-Miniye shift has been a considerable source of tension for 2,061 Zouq Bhannine 30 Trablous El Hadid 6,736 Tripoli + 5 Districts Trablous El Mhatra 395 the Lebanese host community. 8 Trablous Es-Souayqa Minie Total No. of Household Registered 34,281 62 Trablous El-Haddadine, El-Hadid, El-Mharta 11,683 Security Situation 1,463 Raouda-Aadoua Total No. of Individuals Registered 142,768 Trablous Et-Tell Trablous et Tabbaneh 263 2,129 4,549 Merkebta Nabi Youcheaa 768 According to the local authority, a lack of Mina N 3 Mina N 1 Deir Aammar 547 2,946 246 interaction between refugees and the host 3,034 Borj El-Yahoudiye Tripoli Beddaoui 49 Hraiqis community complemented Tleil’s long standing 18,257 Terbol-Miniye Mina Jardin Boussit 25 Mzraat position as one of the safest villages in Akkar. Mina N 2 1,311 18 Qarhaiya Trablous El-Qobbe Aasaymout 7,186 Aazqai This segregation was certainly considered as one 120 Harf Es-Sayad Trablous jardins Hailan Debaael 107 Qarne 1,682 Aalma 159 Btermaz Beit Haouik means to reduce the risk of conflict or incidents, 920 186 25 Mejdlaiya Zgharta Kfar Chellane Trablous En-Nouri Harf Es-Sayad but not necessarily in resolving disputes over 28 4,494 Miriata 657 Haouaret-Miniye Arde Aachach Mrah Es-Srayj 107 2,092 27 206 7 Trablous Er-Remmaneh Trablous Ez-Zeitoun 550 water or waste management. During the first Beit Zoud Bakhaaoun 15,870 Aardat Kfar Habou 1,910 few years of the Syrian uprising, some of the 482 tarane Qemmamine Rachaaine 193 Sfire Tallet Zgharta Mrah Es-Sfire 449 Kfar Bibnine Jayroun Ras Masqa 480 Kharroub-Miniye Qraine villages surrounding Tleil were targeted with 2,028 Zgharta Danha Haql el Aazime 12 Aain Et-Tine-Miniyé 40 12 Mazraat Ajbeaa 2,126 Kfardlaqous 31 131 224 Qattine-Miniyé Beit El-Faqs indiscriminate shelling, affecting overall safety 226 Asnoun 31 Aassoun Qarsaita Barsa 68 Hariq Zgharta 1,568 122 and security in the region, with one Syrian refugee 562 2 Izal Sir Ed-Danniye Hazmiyet-Miniye Figure 2. A map of Al Qobbe neighbourhood112 Kfarho uinra Qarah Bach Qalamoun Dedde Zgharta 529 5,495 99 Mazraat Ketrane 3,114 1,755 Mazraat Jnaid 120 Tripoli Deir Nbouh 1 Bqaiaa El-Koura 395 Hraiche Khaldiye Mimrine 31 40 Kfarzaina Kfaryachit Bqarsouna 33 Deir El-Balamand Nakhle 54 Houakir 147 Mrebbine Sup1. 288 63 Bechehhara 528 Available at: 10 . توقيف سوري يف 894عكار بجرم mineنقلBatro uأسلحة .(Annahar24 (2015 223 Sakhra 7 32 Deir Jdeide Mazraat El-Kreme Qalhat Btouratij Kfarchakhna 29 According to the mayor of Tleil. https://bit.ly/2VvkXbH 7 Jarjour Zaghartaghrine 156 370 104 57 Karm El-Mohr Enfe Bsebaal Iaal Aaymar El Minieh-Dennie Kfar Kahel 34 1,415 144 60 100 5 529 Kahf El-Malloul Fiaa 19 3 9 Morh 253 197 Bchannine 186 115 135 Aarjis Miziara Badbhoun 448 156 461 Bterram Bnechaai Behouaita 6 179 7 Aafsdiq Daraiya Zgharta 6 313 219 Chikka Bhairet Toula Bechnnata Toula Zgharta 1,680 3 27 Bqaa Sefrine Bechmizzine Zgharta Kfarfou Mazraat Et-Teffah 26 Sebaal Zgharta 1,504 275 119 29 Ras Kifa 123 Kfar Aaqqa 146 777 Ijbaa Heri Ayto Beslouqit 1,036 31 310 Kfar Hazir 133 7 449 El Koura Karm Sadde Kafraya El-Koura 239 Kfar Saroun El-Koura 170 Bednayel El-Koura 630 Seraal Hamat 263 12 Aintourine 264 Ehden Rechdibbine Moghr El-Ahoual 748 20 Kfar Hata El-Koura Dar Chmizzine Bhabbouch El-Koura 7 Ras Nahhach 127 131 Ain Aakrine Aarbet Qozhaiya Ouajh El-Hajjar 77 Tourza Selaata 356 61 21 11 56 Aabdine Kfarsghab 42 Dar Baaechtar 25 Qatnaaoun 484 55 Koubba Ijdaabrine 411 107 Qnayouer Bane 82 393 Rachkida 134 Blaouza 21 128 Billa Metrit Berhalioun Kfar Khollos 37 4 Ouadi Qannoubine 5 Aabrine 74 88 Beit Menzer Batroun 382 7 Bcharre Majdel el-Koura Zgharta El-Mtaouile Hadchit 2,006 Kfar Hay Boqsmaiya Deir Billa 111 Mazraat Aassaf 51 105 85 143 Bcharre Beit Kassab 15 Bijdarfil 1,082 Basbina Jebla Qnat Ijdabra 79 40 31 Mazraat Bani Saab 3 120 Harbouna Daael El Koura 11 Breissat Kour 7 95 Hardine Basbina Sourat El-Batroun Helta 3 Edde El-Batroun 50 5 Bazaaoun Ftahat 6E8l-Batroun 36 119 40 Kfifane Kfar Hilda Dimane 38 Kfar Aabida 147 Kfarb Shlaimane 892 Niha El-Batroun Haqath Ej-Jebbe 6 Kfar Hatna Aartiz Bechtoudar Hasroun 340 3 17 185 Mrah JCrahndeid El-Batroun 34 6 42 212 Bqaa Kafra 31 Deir Kfifane Zane Assia 23 121 Deir Mar Youhanna EL-Batroun Smar Jbayl 157 237 Kfour El-Aarbi 7 Mrah Ez Ziyat Beit Chlala 13 Bqerqacha Mrah El-Hajj Nahle El-Batroun Ghouma 7 132 36 Thoum Daraya El-Batroun 5 Deir Mar Youssef Jrabta 17 70 Rachana 31 Chibtine 3 AAbdelli Tannourine Et-Tahta 251 Aalali 38 158 25 Mchaa Ej-Jibbe Bcheaali Sghar El Batroun Toula El-Batroun Racha 128 115 98 Douq Mehmarch 37 Douma 9 96 Hadtoun 219 Ouata Houb Jrabta El-Batroun 11 11 30 Masrah Mar Mama Ram El-Batroun 12 16 Dahr Abi Yaghi Chatine 62 Tannourine El-Faouqa 49 741

Notes LOCATION DIAGRAM Akkar Legend This map has been produced by the Inter-Agency Information Management Unit of UNHCR based on maps and material provided by the Government of No. of Refugees per Cadastral Lebanon for operational purposes. It does not constitute an official United North Nations map. The designations employed and the presentation of material on 1 - 100 this map do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of Baalbek-El Hermel 101 - 500 the Secretariat of the United Nations concerning the legal status of any Mount Lebanon country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the 501 - 1,000 delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Beirut 1,001 - 3,000 Data Sources: 3,001 - 10,000 - Lebanese Border, Caza and Cadastral Boundaries: NPMPLT 2005. - Geographic Projection WGS 1984 Bekaa 10,001 - 19,000 Governorate Registered Refugees Figures by UNHCR as of 31 December 2018. For more information contact Diana El Habr at [email protected] Caza GIS and Mapping by UNHCR. For Information and updates ± El Nabatieh South contact Jad Ghosn: [email protected] Maroun Sader: [email protected] 0 5 10 KM The No. indicates the registered refugees at the cadastral level NPMPLT: National Physical Master Plan for the Lebanese Territory Economic Situation shifted drastically. Prior to the Lebanese Civil War in 1975, this neighbourhood was inhabited Qobbe, namely the Amerkan and Bakkar localities, by wealthy and upper class families of Tripoli. has historically been known as Tripoli’s upper class During that time, Qobbe was characterized by its where families build their villas and mansions diversity in hosting Sunni and Alawite Muslims overlooking the sea and in close proximity to many as well as Christians. The war segregated the private schools. Indeed, the former Evangelical neighbours and clear fault lines were drawn School for boys (Amerkan School) was later between the Sunnis and Alawites, whilst the converted into a major intelligence hub for the Christian community travelled to safer zones in Syrian Arab Army (SAA).34 Some neighbourhoods Tripoli or outside the city altogether. Checkpoints in Qobbe were particularly vibrant prior to the and walls dividing the neighbourhoods serve as a onset of the 2008 sectarian conflicts; for instance, stark reminder of the unsettled history here, with Amerkan, where many Alawites live, previously bullet ridden buildings witness to the brutality of hosted more than 30 small textile factories/ the clashes. In addition to government efforts to workshops with hundreds, if not thousands, of restore a number of these buildings in 2017, there skilled workers. Today, less than five of these remains a need for psychosocial intervention factories continue to operate, and are struggling to aimed at rebuilding trust between communities, revive their business and productivity. In addition and promoting forgiveness and reconciliation. to thousands of both skilled and unskilled workers who lost their jobs due to closing businesses, Since it is affordable and offers employment there are also hundreds more who lost their opportunities for both skilled and unskilled livelihoods because they were injured by clashes workers, the presence of Syrian refugees in the and rendered disabled. neighbourhood plays an additional role in the social dynamics of Qobbe. Many areas in Qobbe are owned by the national government where there are official premises for Security Situation LAF and ISF, in addition to Qobbe prison and the The neighbourhood of Qobbe survived as one of Lebanese University, where the main campus in the conflict zones of Tripoli from 2008 to 2014: the north was located until recently when it moved Hundreds of shops were forced to close, and to Haykaliyye in . These government tens of buildings were damaged. Today, security institutions created livelihoods for tens of families incidents are rare, and are usually a result of in the region, as well as supported many shops personal disputes, and gender-based/domestic and vendors located nearby. Despite the negative violence. Individuals who participated in sectarian impact of the clashes, these institutions sustained clashes are arrested occasionally but, in general, a minimal level of operation until business as the situation remains relatively calm as it has done usual was restored following implementation of since the Security Plan was implemented in 2014. the Security Plan in 2014. Despite reportedly high tensions between refugees Social Situation and host communities, significant violence is rarely recorded, with triggers for tension usually Over the last few decades, the socioeconomic related to national/local political issues. status and demographic makeup of Qobbe has

.Available at: https://bit . بعدك عىل بايل .(Chatawy, T (2015 34 ly/2VlZo8s

10 Key Findings there is a parallel structure that helps Syrians who do not want to register their marriage through Perceptions on Lebanese-Syrian official channels. This makes understanding the mixed marriages: The cases of scale of intermarriage difficult to quantify. Tleil and Qobbe “The whole marriage needs nothing more This research highlights underlying factors that than a local self-declared sheikh with two male may drive perceptions of refugee-host community witnesses. Then the contract is written but relationships, including long-standing grievances never gets officially registered at the spiritual or sectarian feuds. courts. If the man is the custodian of that In Tleil, the Mayor reported no intermarriages contract, which in most cases he is, then the between Lebanese residents and displaced mere disappearance of the document annuls Syrians. However, in Qobbe, respondents and FGD the whole process or as if it never happened. participants seemed more acquainted with the So, how can this be fair to women and who subject, or at least believed that it existed in their protects them?” –lawyer community on some scale. Despite this, most In one key informant interview with a local lawyer respondents had an opinion about the subject: who handles intermarriage cases, particularly those Some were opposed to the idea, whilst others which entail divorce and/or disputes, he describes showed little interest and instead highlighted more the situation as a “mess” and adds that it facilitates critical issues such as livelihoods or competition exploitation of vulnerable women and girls who for employment. There was a notable lack of are unaware of their human rights. Furthermore, positivity towards the concept of intermarriage, if a marriage is not officially registered, legal rights with very few respondents identifying more cannot be guaranteed. According to the lawyer, benefits than challenges or noting that this type “among the most critical issues is the fact that the of marriage may enhance communication and sheikhs or religious figures that are handling the interaction between the two families, and hence marriage are not registering it, mostly upon the foster better relationships in the community. demand of the couples, or mainly men.” In other words, a couple would call upon a local sheikh, Respondents shared their perceptions regarding mainly not under the jurisdiction of Dar el Fatwa, a number of factors that may come to influence to conduct the marriage. The marriage certificate or be influenced by intermarriage. For instance, therefore is not necessarily registered, hence the poor socioeconomic conditions and poverty were divorce and anything else related to the legal rights identified as the primary influencers in a decision of the couple, especially the women, cannot be to marry between communities. Similarly, weak guaranteed. This is creating issues not only related legal frameworks, particularly from religious to the vulnerable women and girls, but also, if the perspectives, can also facilitate the occurrence of wife gives birth, to the legality of this newborn and exploitation in intermarriage. The following and their right to registration and citizenship. The sections of this report explore the dynamics and lack thereof risks the child becoming stateless and legalities of intermarriage, and its relationship creating an even more complicated situation. A with social stability. head of a local NGO working on protection related Perceptions about legal and issues fully agreed with the lawyer’s perspective religious frameworks on how complex the situation is. “Unofficial or unregistered marriages put girls and women in According to key informants with access to a very vulnerable position. Many of them do information regarding religious/legal frameworks,

11 not even know that the contracts will not be necessarily have in-depth knowledge that would registered, others are too young to comprehend allow them to understand the bigger picture, or request that. While some others seem to know rather than rely on general public perceptions. and agree for multiple reasons.” Push and Pull Factors According to the lawyer, one of the most important An NGO leader used the term “push and pull reasons behind this concurrence not to register factors” to describe the reasons that may influence the marriage is that “it is being used as a cover men and women in pursuing intermarriage. Since for prostitution or illegal relationships. So instead many respondents did not support to the idea of doing something that is Haram (or prohibited of intermarriage, it was important to understand religiously), they get the sheikh and witnesses to why and so participants were invited to share do the paper but then no one really cares about and explicate their perceptions. The various the entitlements of this contract. As if it never push and pull factors listed by respondents do happened.” not necessarily highlight underlying triggers or The general perception is that most intermarriages diffusers of tension. In fact, there are perceptive are unofficial, hence, no one can extract any differences in each region. concrete data about it, including a definitive “Lebanese men in our communities are gradually number nor the percentage of divorces, legal becoming more convinced that marrying a disputes or protection issues within these Syrian lady will be more cost-effective and marriages. When asked about the scale, even key they wouldn’t need to do anything other than informants who work closely with these issues what they are obliged to do when marrying a responded vaguely that there are simply “many” Lebanese woman.” – female FGD participant cases. For men, push and pull factors may differ from The sheikh interviewed in this study reported those of women. For instance, Syrian women that around 5-10 per cent of the marriages he may be pushed into marrying a Lebanese man conducts in North Lebanon are mixed Lebanese- because of the hardships she faces at home; Syrian and that he registers them legally. However, the Kafala system and the associated risks of he was unable to provide an overall estimate for exploitation; socioeconomic factors; religious how many similar marriages take place, primarily and social pressures; and other cultural reasons. because there are no legal requirements or For Lebanese men, push factors may also be documentation. Another sheikh who facilitates socioeconomic (namely, not being able to afford such arrangements declined to take part in the the standard required to marry a Lebanese interview when he became aware that the project woman). One young female FGD participant was investigating intermarriage. suggested that many Lebanese daughters are Many of the technical and legal hurdles explained pressured into finding a home, leading men to find by key informants were not mentioned by Lebanese alternatives without subsidized housing loans. host communities. Rather, they were more Pull factors, on the other hand, appeal to more concerned about cultural differences, competition emotional reasoning, including love, respect and for jobs, and the complexities of stateless children understanding. Analyses of responses indicated or protection issues of vulnerable women and that many participants felt that intermarriage was girls. In fact, not a single respondent mentioned somewhat materialistic and even opportunistic. For any technical or legal problems, prompting instance, one Syrian resident in Qobbe suggested the assumption that host communities do not

12 that many people assume Syrian women want to is normal and could still occur if Syria was as marry Lebanese men for citizenship, to secure accessible as it once was. However, intermarriage protection, and access to basic services and social with a refugee remains taboo, and is neither seen status. as an enhancer of social stability nor a trigger for tension as it is simply not acceptable. Indeed, a key As for Lebanese men, pull factors may include the local stakeholder suggested he had never heard of availability of potential brides since, particularly this and does not think it would ever happen either, in spite of socio-cultural differences, there are with another reiterating the lack of interaction many commonalities. Additionally, the process between the two communities. Thus, there was is fairly easy, whereby sheikhs providing grooms overall agreement between respondents that this with a list of potential matches to promote early was a topic of little relevance to them. marriage and prevent sins. According to these sheikhs, the earlier these young men and women “The issue is mixed marriages in Tleil between get married, the less adultery-related sins they host communities and refugees is not are likely to commit. This is not solely an issue in something I have heard of or expect in the mixed marriages, but rather more generally the village. I’m surprised to hear that it was cited opposition to prevention of early marriage laws in before” – Mayor of Tleil 35 Lebanon. In Qobbe, responses varied widely between An Opportunity for Social Stability Lebanese residents and Syrian refugees. The or a Trigger for Tension? Alawites in Qobbe held similar opinions to the Christian community in Tleil, but the rate of In Tleil, Lebanese residents appear to be adverse to intermarriage between Alawite Lebanese and any interaction with Syrian refugees, let alone the Syrians is much higher because of strong ties idea of intermarriage. Indeed, Syrian respondents between the two communities. In fact, thousands did not even seem to be acquainted with the old of Lebanese Alawites are originally of Syrian town, with many living and working by the main descent, granted Lebanese nationality during the road where they are not considered part of the SAA occupation. Despite this unique relationship village. Demographic shifts are indeed a trigger for with the Syrian community, the Alawites of tension here, where Muslims now dominate the Jabal Mohsen have fairly limited interaction and surrounding villages and geographic segregation tolerance to the idea of mixed marriage with is evident. Indeed, the predominantly Christian predominantly Sunni refugees. This dynamic is Lebanese community live in the old town and not only driven by a sectarian difference but also have minimal interaction with the ´new´ Muslim- a political discord. The Alawite community in majority village located by the main road where Qobbe is mostly pro-Syrian regime and often see Syrian refugees tend to rent the shops that they refugees as “traitors” or people “ungrateful” to an live in. administration that presumably provided them with more than what they have now. The lack of Thus, the idea of mixed marriage is rarely empathy for these refugees is also compounded by discussed here but the Mayor of Tleil describes the fact that many Alawites with dual nationality the phenomenon as a relationship that has always continue to visit Syria, namely the coastal province taken “place naturally between the Lebanese and of Latakia, for healthcare and shopping in spite Syrians who used to travel across borders or meet of security threats. Thus, as one Jabal Mohsen through familial occasions.” For him, intermarriage resident suggested, they are unable to understand 35 HRW (2017). Lebanon must pass a law banning child marriage. why these Syrian communities forego this in favour Available at: https://www.hrw.org/ar/news/2017/04/12/302215

13 of basic services provided by international aid. lack of access to, relevant information; Indeed, there are many Alawites who “see living in a war-torn Syria easier and cheaper than being in - Advocating for enforceable and regulated one of the poorest neighbourhoods of Lebanon.” protection laws that can create safety nets, provide shelters for GBV victims, end child Outside the Alawite Jabal Mohsen, Sunni marriage etc.; communities are more welcoming of intermarriage, with some who consider it to be a “normal - Providing safe spaces whereby men and evolution of the relationship.” Others, particularly women, Syrian and Lebanese, can interact; Lebanese Sunni women, were more conservative - Working with religious institutions to prevent in their responses: “We cannot prevent people exploitation and misrepresentation of sheikhs from marrying, it is Naseeb, or “God’s will”. in sensitive tasks; Who are we to stand against it? But this does not mean that it is not creating a lot of issues”. - Empowering women to become more For women in this community, it is difficult to financially independent and use their skills generalize intermarriage as a trigger for tension and motivation in skilled jobs including but or an enhancer of social stability. Rather, it should not limited to the production of artisanal be analyzed on an individual basis. For example, and handicrafts items that can support mixed marriage is unlikely to support social cooperatives; and, stability if a Syrian refugee is the second or third wife of a Lebanese man. Instances like this may - Sharing success stories about the approach. compound negative perceptions that Lebanese women hold of their Syrian counterparts, and one activist suggested the same for Lebanese men who marry young Syrian girls. One FGD participant clarified that Lebanese residents care more about employment pressures created by the influx of refugees than intermarriage, which seems irrelevant in comparison.

Regardless of geographic or religious background, most respondents were not very supportive of intermarriage. Even those with a more positive position discussed a number of caveats including cultural differences, lifestyles, risk of exploitation and many others. Recommendations There are a number of key approaches and recommendations that may help to mitigate tensions that result from negative perceptions about intermarriage, including:

- Promotion of data collection, analysis and dissemination in response to the lack of, or

14 Annexes lebanon/docs/CrisisPreventionRecovery/ SupplementArticles/17Supp/PEACE%20 Bibliography BUILDING%2017%20ENG%20p6.pdf

- Ark & UNDP “Regular Perception Surveys on - Ismail, K., Wilson, C. & Cohen-Fournier, N. Social Tensions throughout Lebanon” WAVE I (2017). Syrian refugees in Tripoli, Lebanon. and IV Feinstein International Center. Accessed on - Bartels, S. A., Michael, S., Roupetz, S., 4.3.2019. Available at http://fic.tufts.edu/ Garbern, S., Kilzar, L., Bergquist, H., & Bunting, assets/Tripoli-FINAL-5-July.pdf A. (2018). Making sense of child, early and - Lebanon Support (2016). The conflict context forced marriage among Syrian refugee girls: a in Tripoli: Chronic neglect, increased poverty, BMJ Global mixed methods study in Lebanon. & leadership crisis. Conflict Analysis Report. Health, 3, e000509. Accessed on 4.3.2019. Available at https:// - CARE International (2018). Syrian Refugees civilsociety-centre.org/sites/default/files/ in Lebanon Eight Years On: What works resources/ls-car-nov2016-tripoli_0.pdf and why that matters for the future? - The Lebanese Center for Policy Studies (2018). Accessed on 1.3.2019. Available at https:// Building peace into refugee responses. Syrian www.care-international.org/files/files/ refugees in Lebanon. Accessed on 2.3.2019. CAREInternationalLebanon_RefugeesinLebanon_ Available at https://www.kpsrl.org/sites/ Whatworksandwhythatmattersforthefuture.pdf default/files/2018-08/Building%20peace%20 into%20refugee%20responses%2028-8.pdf :Available at .بعدك عىل بايل .(Chatawy, T (2015 - https://bit.ly/2VlZo8s - Thorleifsson, C. (2016). The limits of hospitality: - Christophersen, M., Liu, J., Thorleifsson, C. coping strategies among displaced Syrians in M., & Tiltnes, A. A. (2013). Lebanese attitudes Lebanon. Third World Quarterly, 37, 1071- towards Syrian refugees and the Syrian 1082. crisis. Results from a National Opinion Poll. - UNDP (2016). Lebanese and Syrian Women FAFO Paper, (13). of Akroum Sewing New Friendships. Peace - House of Peace (2017). Customs & Traditions: Building in Lebanon. Accessed on 4.3.2019. Connectors or Dividers for Syrian Refugees in Available at https://www.alnap.org/system/ Lebanon? Syrian Voices Paper. Accessed on files/content/resource/files/main/undp- 1.3.2019. Available at https://data2.unhcr. newsletter-web-en.pdf org/fr/documents/download/54481 - UNHCR & REACH (2014). Lebanese - HRW (2017). Lebanon must pass a law banning Communities Hosting Syrian Refugees: child marriage. Available at: https://www.hrw. Akkar Governorate - Lebanon. Assessment org/ar/news/2017/04/12/302215 Report. Accessed on 1.3.2019. Available at https://data2.unhcr.org/fr/documents/ - Imad, A.G. (2017). The Problematics download/41553 of Mixed Marriages between Persons of Different Religions, Denominations and Nationalities. The Peacebuilding in Lebanon. Accessed on 27.2.2019. Available at http://www.lb.undp.org/content/dam/

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