The concept of 'inheriting asylum' highlights the generational impact of displacement on Palestinian refugees, affecting their identity and future prospects.
The economic challenges faced by Palestinian refugees in Lebanon are compounded by the lack of legal recognition and citizenship, which limits their access to employment and social services.
The psychological toll of living in prolonged refugee status can lead to feelings of despair and hopelessness, particularly among the youth.
The ongoing conflict in Syria and the economic crisis in Lebanon may continue to drive Palestinian refugees to seek alternatives, including illegal immigration, which could lead to increased risks and tragedies.
Without significant international support and policy changes, the living conditions for Palestinian refugees in Lebanon are unlikely to improve, perpetuating cycles of poverty and displacement.
Tens of thousands of Palestinian refugees from Syria to Lebanon are facing the harsh reality of 'double asylum,' having fled twice: first from Palestine to Syria and then from Syria to Lebanon due to the ongoing conflict. This situation has led to a phenomenon known as 'inheriting asylum,' where children like Hamza, a resident of Mar Elias camp in Beirut, are born into a refugee status that dates back to 1948, despite being born in Lebanon.
Hamza's story, highlighted in the 'Victims and Heroes' program on Al Jazeera 360, illustrates the complexities of identity and belonging for Palestinian refugees. He grapples with the duality of being labeled both Syrian and Palestinian, feeling the weight of his family's history and the expectations tied to it.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) reports that approximately 29,000 Palestinian refugees from Syria currently reside in Lebanon, many of whom are reluctant to return to Syria due to security concerns and dire economic conditions in both nations.
The economic burden on Palestinian refugees is significant, as highlighted by Hamza's father, who struggles to afford residency renewals in Lebanon, with costs skyrocketing from 350,000 Lebanese pounds to over 2 million in just a few years. This financial strain exacerbates the already challenging living conditions in refugee camps, which are often unsanitary and overcrowded.
The head of the Association of Palestinian Syrians emphasizes the urgent need for a voice to represent the suffering and poverty of Palestinian refugees, who often lack basic necessities. The bleak outlook for future generations is evident, as many children, including Hamza, are discouraged from pursuing their ambitions due to systemic barriers and limited opportunities.
In response to these dire circumstances, some refugees are considering illegal immigration as a desperate option, despite the inherent risks involved, such as drowning at sea or facing other life-threatening situations. This reflects a profound sense of hopelessness among the community.
