Abstract

This study examines the role of civil society organizations (CSOs) in Lebanon’s emergency response during the 2024 Israeli war and displacement crisis. Drawing on interviews, focus group discussions, and desk research, it explores how local CSOs, grassroots initiatives, and volunteer networks acted as first responders, mobilizing rapidly to provide shelter, food, healthcare, protection, and psychosocial support before formal coordination systems were fully operational. The study highlights the central role of civil society in responding to crisis amid weak state capacity, while also identifying challenges related to coordination, funding, and preparedness. It calls for more inclusive and anticipatory emergency governance frameworks that better integrate and support local civil society actors.

Date: February 2026