A labour market assessment provides critical insights into economic activities, employment trends, and barriers to job opportunities for Syrians refugees and Lebanese residents in Arsal, helping the UNDP develop programs in the area after ISIS left.

Background

After the departure of ISIS from Arsal, Lebanon, Triangle assisted the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in developing the Arsal Labour Market Assessment (ALMA) project. The project was initiated to address the critical need for understanding employment and economic activity in the area. It aimed to map key economic activities, assess employment trends, and identify barriers to job opportunities among Syrian refugees and Lebanese residents. 

Triangle was tasked with conducting a comprehensive feasibility study for ALMA. The assignment involved a detailed mapping of economic activities, assessing employment trends, identifying barriers to job opportunities, and exploring income generation activities. The final deliverable was a comprehensive report with recommendations for livelihood interventions to support vulnerable populations. 

The Challenge

Arsal’s labour market has been shaped by conflict, displacement, and economic instability. The lack of structured data on employment dynamics hindered the ability of policymakers and development agencies to design effective livelihood interventions. Without a clear understanding of labour participation, income generation, and economic barriers, efforts to improve employment prospects in the region remained fragmented and reactive.

Our Approach

Triangle used a mixed-method research approach, designed to provide a granular understanding of Arsal’s labour market. 

• Economic Activity Mapping: Mapped key industries, sectors, and business activities to establish a clear picture of economic drivers in Arsal. 
• Labour Market Assessment: Analysed employment trends among Syrian refugees and Lebanese residents, evaluating participation rates, skills, and job availability. 
• Barrier Identification: Examined structural and socio-economic barriers to employment and self-employment, including regulatory constraints and financial challenges. 
• Income Generation Analysis: Explored viable opportunities for income-generating activities to support sustainable economic participation. 
• Policy & Livelihood Recommendations: Developed evidence-based recommendations for targeted livelihood interventions to enhance economic resilience for vulnerable populations. 

Results and Impact

The study provided actionable insights that directly contribute to improving economic opportunities in Arsal: 

• Data-Driven Decision-Making: The assessment equips policymakers and development agencies with robust data to inform strategic livelihood initiatives. 
• Enhanced Economic Inclusion: By identifying key employment barriers, the study enables targeted interventions that promote job access for Syrians and Lebanese residents. 
• Sustainable Livelihood Strategies: The findings support the design of long-term economic programs that align with local market needs and opportunities. 

Looking Ahead

The insights gained from this assessment guided initiatives aimed at fostering economic stability and resilience in Arsal. Moving forward, Triangle continues to work alongside UNDP and other stakeholders to refine strategies that enhance employment prospects and drive sustainable development in the region.