High-Level delegation highlights success of ILO's EU-funded ENABLE Project in Beirut

© ILO/ Carl Haddad

BEIRUT (ILO News) – A high-level delegation visited the ILO’s EU-funded ENABLE project site in Bourj Hammoud in the Lebanese capital Beirut, to witness firsthand the impact of the project which the ILO is implementing alongside the Ministry of Social Affairs and local stakeholders.

The visit on 23 January brought together key representatives, including Minister of Social Affairs Dr. Hector Hajjar, Head of EU Cooperation Ms. Alessandra Viezzer, ILO Deputy Regional Director Mr. Peter Rademaker, representatives from Bourj Hammoud Municipalities, the Italian humanitarian NGO COOPI and the Lebanese micro-finance NGO AEP, the ILO’s implementing partners in the project.

© ILO/ Carl Haddad

The visit began with an introductory meeting at the Municipality of Bourj Hammoud, where key stakeholders discussed the objectives and progress of the ENABLE programme. This was followed by a focus group discussion with project beneficiaries, providing an opportunity to hear firsthand accounts of how the initiative has impacted their lives. The day concluded with a site visit to observe Employment-Intensive Infrastructure Programme (EIIP) activities, including essential town cleaning, the restoration of green areas, and the maintenance of municipal water channels.

H.E. Dr. Hector Hajjar, Minister of Social Affairs, highlighted the project's significance, stating, "The importance of this project lies in providing short-term job opportunities for both women and men, as well as offering basic training, such as how to create a resume. This initiative gives them the necessary support to integrate into the labor market and enhance their productivity. It aligns with the ministry's policy of transitioning individuals receiving financial support from poverty to employment, enabling them to become productive, support themselves, and assist their families".

© ILO/ Carl Haddad

Alessandra Viezzer, EU Delegation Head of Cooperation, shared her perspective, noting, "Through this cash-for-work initiative, we aim to provide people with new opportunities and a pathway to further seek decent jobs and dignified salaries. The ENABLE project embodies the EU's commitment to supporting sustainable livelihoods and fostering inclusive growth in Lebanon. By developing skills, involving local workers, and improving urban infrastructure, the project empowers individuals and communities in Lebanon."

Peter Rademaker, ILO Deputy Regional Director, emphasized the collaborative efforts, stating, "We are proud of the work achieved in Bourj Hammoud through collaboration between the ILO and national and international partners. This collaboration has not only created much-needed jobs but has also built pathways towards sustainable livelihoods and stronger communities. It is a testimonial to the transformative power of employment-focused development. This initiative is particularly significant as it highlights the crucial link between social protection and employment opportunities, ensuring that vulnerable individuals are supported in their transition to decent work while fostering long-term economic resilience."

The ILO’s EU-funded ENABLE project integrates several components, including a strategy aimed at enhancing local employment in Bourj Hammoud and promoting the socioeconomic inclusion of social protection beneficiaries. The Employment-Intensive Infrastructure Programme (EIIP) engages 200 unskilled workers for 40 days. To complement Job Inclusion activities, participants receive soft skills training in areas such as stress management, time management, and job search techniques, empowering them to transition into sustainable employment. Additionally, tailored financial education sessions, conducted in collaboration with AEP, equip beneficiaries with essential financial management skills to support their long-term economic goals.