Lebanon: Poor people in the north continue to suffer without a masterplan

Lebanon: Poor people in the north continue to suffer without a masterplan

From IRIN via Reuters AlertNet

"Akkar is considered one of the poorest areas in Lebanon," said Muhieddine, adding that the region receives little support from local and international institutions. The bulk of national development, he pointed out, has been largely concentrated in the capital Beirut and in the Mount Lebanon area, both before and after the 15-year civil war.

Nestled on the border with Syria, the area appears in stark contrast to Beirut's luxurious downtown district, where one can pay up to $4 for a cup of coffee.

With local employment almost impossible to find, many locals are tempted to seek jobs in the capital, although this often brings its own set of problems. "If I go to Beirut, transportation will cost money, so I have to think carefully," said Khaled Jawad, who must earn enough to meet the needs of his many children.

POLITICS COULD WORSEN SITUATION

Recent tensions with neighbouring Syria – due to unfolding political developments – have further exacerbated their misery. "We used to go to Syria to buy goods, which are cheaper over there," said Khaled, "but we can't do that anymore."

To make matters worse, Akkar's traditional farming industry is currently facing increased competition from imported crops, which threaten to undercut local produce. According to Muhieddine, an absence of clear-cut government policies has done little to help protect the local agricultural sector.

This largely Sunni area seems a world away from the comfortable urbanites who are the international face of Sunni Arab politics in Lebanon.