In 1948 the Palestinians fled their region due to the Arab-Israeli war. Hundreds of thousands of people were forced out. Many went north over the boarder into Lebanon. The hope was, that someday they would return home.
It is now 60 years later. Over 395,000 refugees are living in Lebanon and still waiting to go home.
Over 10,000 refugees live in Al Bass refugee camp in Tyre. It is a condensed camp. Interestingly built around a hospital. The Lebanese soldiers do not go in. They hover, instead, around the entrances at their checkpoints. Around the edges are high houses with barbed wire around them.
I am told the reason is that there is supposed to be no commercial or building activity to go on from within the camp. This is clearly not the case.
We went in. I was, naturally, nervous.
We went in. I was, naturally, nervous.
Inside there were narrow lanes, a few vending shops nearby. The roads inside were remarkably well kept. The houses meagre, yet homely. There were young guys on their motor bikes. A school. A brand new PLO centre (new building materials are not, by any means, allowed inside!) Students on the sides of the roads shouting hello. This camp was... it was very pleasant. The atmosphere was quite peaceful. We saw mechanics at work, kids smiling and even a small electric vendor with some IT equipment. This was not what I was expecting.
80% unemployment. But my guide tells me that the 20% that do work ensure that they feed their families, their friends and beyond.
80% unemployment. But my guide tells me that the 20% that do work ensure that they feed their families, their friends and beyond.
The two Palestinians that meet me sit down and start to speak speak. They share that all they would like is for the recognition of their human rights and would like... to go home.
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