Lebanon Signs $128 Million EU Funding Deals to Support Security and Reforms

BY THE ARAB TODAY Jan 16, 2026

Lebanon Signs $128 Million EU Funding Deals to Support Security and Reforms
Image Credit: National News Agency (Lebanon) / Website

Lebanon Signs $128 Million EU Funding Deals to Support Security and Reforms

The government of Lebanon has signed six new funding agreements with the European Union worth $128.3 million (€110.5 million). The money will be given as grants and will help improve security, support recovery in areas affected by conflict, and push forward important government reforms.

These new agreements are part of a larger €1 billion ($1.16 billion) support package announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during her visit to Beirut in May 2024, according to a statement from the EU delegation to Lebanon.

The funding is also included in a €132 million ($153.16 million) package announced last month. That wider package supports small and micro businesses, environmental protection, and conservation projects across the country.

A large part of the new funding will focus on Lebanon’s security sector. About $34.78 million (€30 million) will be used to strengthen the Internal Security Forces. This includes support to fight organized crime, cybercrime, terrorism, terror financing, and smuggling activities. All security agencies will benefit from this support.

Another $29 million (€25 million) will help improve border control at land borders, airports, and sea ports. This funding will also strengthen maritime security. In addition, $9.28 million (€8 million) will be used for sustainable energy projects to make sure that important security facilities can continue operating without interruptions.

The EU is also providing strong support for recovery and development in areas affected by conflict. Around €25 million has been set aside to help communities in the South and the Bekaa regions. This funding will work through local municipalities to improve basic services, support small farming projects, protect the environment, and create jobs.

The recovery funding will also help provide skills training, support small local businesses, and improve cooperation and unity within communities. The goal is to help people rebuild their lives and strengthen local economies.

In addition to security and recovery, part of the funding will focus on reforms and good governance. About $15.66 million (€13.5 million) will support Lebanon’s National Anti-Corruption Strategy. This funding will help public institutions improve internal controls and expand digital services to make government work more efficient and transparent.

Another $10.44 million (€9 million) will support ministries and public institutions in improving public services. It will also help advance broader public administration reforms so that government services become faster, clearer, and more accountable to citizens.

The European Union has been a long-term supporter of Lebanon. Since 2011, the EU has provided more than €3.5 billion ($4.06 billion) in assistance. This includes humanitarian aid, development support, resilience programs, and direct bilateral assistance, according to the EU’s Directorate-General for Enlargement and Eastern Neighbourhood.

The EU says it remains committed to supporting Lebanon during its ongoing economic, political, and social challenges.

Published: 16th January 2026

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