A first-of-its-kind in-depth analysis of Lebanon’s food security and nutrition landscape supports evidence-based policymaking and strategic interventions to achieve zero hunger. 

Background 

Lebanon has faced significant challenges exacerbated by economic strains and an influx of refugees, making it crucial to understand food security dynamics and their implications.  

Commissioned by the World Food Programme (WFP) during key stages of the Syrian refugee influx, the strategic review of food and nutrition security in Lebanon aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of the country’s food security landscape. This review supported WFP in aligning its efforts with national development goals, enhancing engagement with governments and stakeholders, and identifying priority areas for intervention to address gaps and accelerate progress toward achieving zero hunger.

The Challenge 

Lebanon’s food security and nutrition landscape were shaped by a combination of socio-economic hardships, political instability, and regional crises. The influx of refugees placed additional strain on resources, increasing food demand while disrupting traditional supply chains. Rising inflation, currency devaluation, and structural weaknesses in agricultural production further exacerbated food insecurity. Additionally, gaps in policy coordination and the absence of a comprehensive food security framework hindered the effectiveness of interventions. Addressing these challenges required a multi-sectoral approach that combined data-driven policy recommendations, stakeholder engagement, and targeted interventions to improve resilience within the food system.Our Approach 

• Comprehensive Research and Data Analysis: Conducted literature reviews, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions to assess the country’s food security and nutrition landscape. 
• Multi-Phase Methodology: Applied grounded theory methods, ensuring flexibility in gathering relevant information and integrating stakeholder feedback. 
• Inclusive Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborated with WFP and key stakeholders, including government agencies, international organizations, NGOs, academia, and the private sector, to capture diverse perspectives.
• Bilingual Presentation: Delivered the final report in both English and Arabic to enhance accessibility and stakeholder engagement. 
• Stakeholder Workshops: Facilitated interactive sessions to discuss findings, validate key insights, and foster dialogue on potential solutions to food security challenges. 

Results and Impact 

• First-of-its-Kind Food Security Review: This was the first comprehensive assessment of food and nutrition security in Lebanon, setting a critical benchmark for future research and policy discussions. 
• Increased Awareness & Knowledge: The review provided stakeholders with a deeper understanding of Lebanon’s food security landscape, highlighting critical challenges and potential solutions. It became a key reference for policymakers and development actors. 
• Influence on Policy and UN Coordination: The findings directly contributed to discussions at the food security policy level among UN agencies and national stakeholders, shaping Lebanon’s broader food security strategy. The review played a pivotal role in guiding high-level coordination meetings among UN actors. 
• Foundation for WFP & ESCWA Programming: The analysis formed the basis for WFP’s and ESCWA’s food security programming for years, influencing interventions and strategic priorities across the sector. 
• Key Stakeholder Engagement & Events: Triangle’s research supported multiple high-level meetings and events, facilitating dialogue between policymakers, humanitarian actors, and development agencies, fostering stronger partnerships for food security efforts. 
• Timely Programming for WFP: The initiative provided a strategic roadmap for WFP’s programming during key stages of the Syrian refugee influx, ensuring a targeted response. 
• A Unique Benchmark Study: Since its publication, no other organization has conducted a similar review in Lebanon, reinforcing its long-term impact on food security planning and interventions. 

Looking Ahead 

Moving forward, Triangle will continue to leverage evidence-based research to support WFP, other international organizations, and national partners in implementing strategic interventions across sectors in Lebanon.