MUSTAQBALI KHAYARI: Protecting vulnerable women and girls in Lebanon from all forms of violence including child marriage

The MUSTAQBALI KHAYARI Joint Programme addresses the urgent threats facing vulnerable women and girls in Lebanon. Amidst a severe national polycrisis, families, particularly Syrian refugees, are increasingly resorting to harmful coping mechanisms, including a sharp rise in child marriage. This initiative seeks to restore agency and choice to girls at risk by addressing the root causes of child marriage and other forms of gender-based violence.

This vital 2-year initiative (November 2025 – December 2027), with a budget of SEK 45,000,000, is generously supported by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). It unites the complementary expertise of UNFPA and UNICEF , operating in the high-need regions of Tripoli, Akkar, Baalbek, and Bekka.

The programme focuses on three interconnected goals:

• Fostering safe communities: Using proven Social and Behavior Change (SBC) strategies, the programme engages families, community leaders, and men and boys to challenge harmful gender norms and promote positive parenting. 
• Enhancing integrated services: Expanding access to essential, high-quality Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) services, including case management, psychosocial support, and specialized programs for adolescent mothers.
• Strengthening national systems: Building the long-term capacity of Lebanon's health and social workforce to deliver survivor-centered care and effectively respond to child marriage, in partnership with the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Ministry of Public Health.

By empowering girls with skills and knowledge, supporting their families, and improving protective services, MUSTAQBALI KHAYARI aims to ensure that every girl in Lebanon can make her own decisions and build her own future.