More Than a Day: Women Shaping Change Across Communities in Lebanon

More Than a Day: Women Shaping Change Across Communities in Lebanon 

International Women’s Day is more than a day—it’s a reminder to recognize the strength, leadership and everyday impact of women. Around the world, the perspective and voices of women shape change against the backdrop of inequality and injustice.  

Throughout March, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and its partners joined communities across Lebanon to spotlight the voices and experiences of women navigating adversity and driving change. From migrant women building support networks to families reflecting on respect and resilience, each gathering became a space for connection, healing and collective action—reminding us that shaping a more just and inclusive society requires work from us all, every day. 

A safe space to be heard 

On 8 March, a group of 20 Filipina women gathered at Tres Marias, a Filipina-led community organization that supports migrant domestic workers in Lebanon. Through peer support group sessions organized by Migration Services and Development (MSD) and the Embassy of the Philippines, with support from IOM, the group of migrant women created a safe and nurturing environment to express their emotions, share their experiences, and build on each other’s strategies for resilience. With funds from the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), this group of women also received dignity kits, as many were directly affected by the recent escalation of hostilities.  

One by one, each woman shared their story of personal and professional experiences of adapting to change, coping with uncertainty, and learning to navigate challenges. Over a craft-making activity, the conversations continued—this time touching on emotional intelligence, flexibility, and ways to manage transitions with more confidence and self-awareness. A sense of connection began to form. 

Safe spaces like this, where people with shared lived experiences can speak freely, listen deeply, and learn from one another, are powerful cocoons for healing and empowerment. One participant shared, “Talking about my feelings made me feel lighter. I am not alone in this journey.” 

Taking control of health and well-being. 

On 9 March 2025, Sister for Ever Lebanon continued the Women’s Day festivities by dedicating an event to promoting women’s hygiene and the importance of regular health check-ups. The gathering brought together over 100 attendees—mostly from the Ethiopian community, but also women from Sri Lankan, Bangladeshi, Senegalese, Cameroonian—alongside representatives from IOM, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS), Migrant Workers Action (MWA), and others. 

It was a true community effort. Sister for Ever Lebanon made sure 67 women could attend by covering transportation costs, while MSF shared important resources on family planning and women’s health. IOM supported the event with supplies, with funds from its Cooperation on Migration and Partnerships to Achieve Sustainable Solutions (COMPASS) Programme, helping to create a safe and inclusive space where women could focus on themselves, often for the first time in a long while. 

The Women’s Hygiene Awareness Event was both informative and empowering. But the day was more than just a health session. It was a moment of connection, learning and mutual support, reminding every woman in the room that she is not alone. 

Small gestures, strengthened bonds 

On 18 March, IOM and local partner SHIELD hosted a special gathering at Qlaile Social Development Centre, this time bringing together spouses or domestic partnerships from the host community to reflect on appreciation, resilience and mutual support within the family. Unlike the previous events focused solely on women, this session invited both men and women. 

Relationship coaching and advice were conducted with communities to address stigma and share information on available services. The sessions fostered open discussions on healthy relationships, shared responsibilities and the role of emotional appreciation in times of stress. In group activities, spouses expressed—many for the first time—how much they valued each other’s presence. “This is the first time I’ve heard my husband say that he appreciates my support,” said one of the participants.  

With the support of United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the event ended with a dignity kit distribution and renewed commitments to compassion, partnership and open dialogue at home. 

Raising voices in celebration—and advocacy 

On 23 March, the Sri Lanka Women’s Society hosted a vibrant community gathering, bringing together leaders from 12 Sri Lankan groups and several humanitarian organizations. The day was filled with rich discussions, dancing and community. 

Key issues like the Kafala system, a sponsorship-based employment framework used in parts of the Middle East that ties migrant workers’ legal status to their employer, were openly addressed. The Kafalasystem often leads to exploitative and restrictive working conditions. One organizer stated firmly: “I said no to the Kafala system. I want to fight the Kafala system.”  

With funds from its Cooperation on Migration and Partnerships to Achieve Sustainable Solutions (COMPASS) Programme, IOM provided food for the event., which the dozens of ladies enjoyed while exchanging perspectives on shared challenges and the importance of unity. 

IOM Protection Programme In Lebanon, IOM focuses on promoting the protection of crisis-affected populations through a range of interventions aimed at safeguarding the rights and well-being of migrants, including internally displaced persons (IDPs), victims of trafficking, individuals at risk of irregular migration and other vulnerable populations. IOM also supports the strengthening of systems, policies and capacities of governments and humanitarian service providers to deliver protection assistance and address the particular needs of all affected populations, including migrants. 

IOM’s approach to protection is responsive, remedial and works on environmental building and is implemented through its six pillars: IOM’s thematic guidance; direct assistance; convening & dialogue; advocacy & communication; training & capacity development; and data, research & learning.