Lebanon’s crisis is spiralling out of control, says UN rights chief

geneva — Lebanon’s economic crisis is getting out of hand, the UN rights chief warned on Friday, calling for urgent internal reforms coupled with international support to prevent further mayhem.

Michelle Bachelet, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, said the social fabric of the country was at risk as vulnerable populations are threatened with extreme poverty.

“This situation is fast spiralling out of control, with many already destitute and facing starvation as a direct result of this crisis,” she said in a statement.

“The alarm has been sounded, and we must respond immediately before it is too late.”

For months, the Mediterranean country has grappled with its worst economic crisis since the 1975-1990 civil war.

Tens of thousands have lost their jobs or part of their salaries, while a crippling dollar shortage has sparked spiralling inflation.

Bachelet said an unemployment crisis would propel poverty and indebtedness with “grave implications” in a country with fragile social nets.

She said vulnerable Lebanese, along with 1.7 million refugees, were increasingly unable to meet their basic needs, as were 250,000 migrant workers, many of whom have lost their jobs or been left homeless.

“Their situation will only get worse as food and medical imports dry up,” the former Chilean president said.

“As we respond to this pandemic and the socio-economic crisis, we must include and protect everyone, regardless of their migration or other status.” —