An Economic Crisis in Lebanon

Dana spoke with Danielle Bechara, 12, and other students at her school about the financial crisis in Lebanon.

Lebanon has been facing a huge economic crisis for the past year. A dramatic increase in the cost of living has caused a lot of suffering for the people in this Middle Eastern country with a population of nearly 7 million. 

Government corruption is partly to blame for the country’s hardships. In recent months, many residents have taken to the streets to protest the mismanagement.

The crisis has pushed tens of thousands of families into poverty. A growing number of people cannot afford food, water, and electricity. Others have struggled, but have still managed to afford basic necessities.

“My family might not be suffering as much as others, but the crisis has made it hard for us to afford food, clothes, and school supplies,” said Danielle Bechara, 12.

The strain of the financial collapse has led some families to drift apart. “The crisis has separated my family,” said Mahmoud Araji, 13. “My dad has to work extra hours, so I cannot see him much.” 

“There are several problems,” Danielle told Dana about the financial situation in Lebanon. “But I’m sure they’ll be resolved.”

THE EFFECTS OF THE PANDEMIC

The shuttering of many businesses due to the coronavirus pandemic has pushed the unemployment rate to 40%. People have had to dig into their savings to afford medical care for family members suffering from COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus.

“I’ve been trying to stay positive, but it’s heartbreaking knowing what is happening to our country,” said Sarah Khaled, 13, one of several schoolmates I interviewed.

“I’m trying to stay patient, and I’m discovering new talents,” Danielle said.

“I’m trying to be grateful for what I have,” Mahmoud told me. 

I also asked my schoolmates what they wanted kids in other countries to know about the situation here. “They should know that Lebanon is not how the media portrays it,” Danielle said. “The media doesn’t portray all of the beauty in its people. There are several problems, but I’m sure they’ll be resolved.”

Tima Chehabedine, 14, said, “I want everyone to know that we’re in this together.” Despite these expressions of determination, the financial crisis is deepening, and many people are fleeing the country.