Lebanon's Diaspora Returns to Rebuild Amidst Ongoing Conflict

Lebanon, shaken by war, witnesses its diaspora coming back to support recovery efforts as the country faces unprecedented challenges.

As the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalated last September, many Lebanese citizens living abroad began to experience an overwhelming sense of helplessness as they witnessed their homeland being torn apart on television. Abed Al Kadiri, an artist working in Kuwait, was particularly affected as he watched the destruction unfolding in Beirut, the city of his childhood. Concerned for the safety of his family, including his mother and young son, he was troubled by nightmares and panic attacks fueled by anxiety about their well-being.

Compelled by a desire to contribute to his homeland's recovery, Al Kadiri utilized his resources to fly back to Lebanon. "Lebanon was going into an apocalyptic phase,” he stated, reflecting the urgent need he felt to assist. He, like many others from Lebanon’s sizable diaspora—approximately 15 million compared to the country's 5.7 million inhabitants—took the plunge to return home. These returnees are stepping in to provide critical support during a time of hardship, leveraging both their financial resources and skills to help rebuild a country ravaged by one of the most devastating wars in recent history.

The influx of former expatriates revitalizing Lebanon comes alongside the establishment of cultural hubs like the Lebanese Diaspora Village in Batroun, which connects overseas citizens with their roots and encourages collaboration on recovery projects. The collective efforts of these returnees signify a hopeful surge of resilience as Lebanon navigates this turbulent chapter and strives for renewal in the wake of despair.