URDA has always represented the reality of Lebanon in various meetings and conferences both domestically and internationally. Last Friday, August 23, URDA, represented by its Executive Director Jihan Kaisi, participated in a meeting called by the Office of Governmental Foreign Relations in Washington, D.C., where a meeting was held with Ms. Janine Wynne, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration. Several specialists in humanitarian affairs also attended the meeting.
The meeting began with a discussion about Lebanon and its economic crisis, which the World Bank has described as one of the worst crises in modern history, with more than 80% of its population living below the poverty line. Lebanon also hosts about two million refugees deprived of basic dignified living conditions, making it the country with the highest number of refugees relative to its population.
Kaisi then spoke about URDA, its programs, and sectors in alleviating the suffering of thousands across various Lebanese regions. She focused on the deteriorating humanitarian situation in southern Lebanon and the increasing number of displaced people needing urgent intervention. She also discussed the emergency plan launched by URDA in case the conflict escalates.
The joint project between URDA and the Global Women’s Institute at George Washington University was a significant part of the meeting. Kaisi presented the study’s methodologies and techniques and their field application, which helped in empowering and protecting women, significantly elevating the community and bringing positive change to many lives.
Janine Wynne praised URDA’s efforts and its team for addressing the needs of those affected, highlighting the significant role of local organizations in supporting the needy within their countries, as they are closer to the people.
This meeting took place on the sidelines of a conference organized by George Washington University on women’s empowerment and protection, in which URDA played a major role, continuing its efforts to promote its humanitarian and developmental mission worldwide.