What This Means
This research examines the state of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) — which includes family planning, maternal healthcare, and sexuality education — in Lebanon's healthcare system. Despite Lebanon having signed onto international agreements that commit it to protecting these rights, the authors find that actual policies and services fall far short. Political divisions, conservative social attitudes, and a lack of government prioritisation have resulted in patchy family planning services, no comprehensive sex education, and inadequate maternal care, with the worst impacts felt by refugees, women, and young people. Lebanon's national health strategy 'Vision 2030' is criticised for having very limited focus on these issues, leaving deep inequalities in place.
The situation is made worse by Lebanon's ongoing crises — economic collapse, political instability, and repeated episodes of conflict and displacement — which further strain health services and deepen inequalities for the most vulnerable. Rather than having a robust national system for SRHR, Lebanon currently depends on temporary programmes run by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to fill the gaps. The authors describe this as a sign of 'policy paralysis,' meaning the government has largely failed to build a sustainable, long-term approach to these health needs.
This research suggests that Lebanon needs a fundamental shift in health policy to treat sexual and reproductive health as a core part of public health rather than an afterthought. The authors call for government agencies, NGOs, and international partners to work together to reform the health system in a way that is gender-sensitive and inclusive — ensuring that services reach everyone, including the most marginalised communities. The findings highlight how political and social barriers can prevent people from accessing basic healthcare services, with consequences for health outcomes, gender equality, and social equity.