This blog comes from the Oromo Relief Association (ORA), who report on the situation facing Oromo workers in Lebanon.
Oromo workers, many of them semi-skilled and predominantly women, have been migrating to Lebanon for years in search of employment, often taking up roles as domestic workers, caregivers, and in other service industry jobs. The ongoing economic and political instability in Ethiopia has pushed many to seek opportunities abroad, with Lebanon being a common destination. However, the harsh conditions and exploitation many of these workers face under the kafala system—a sponsorship-based labour system that ties workers to their employers, often leading to abuse and exploitation—have not deterred their resilience. Young Oromo women continue to work in Lebanon, supporting their families back home.
Impact of the conflict in Lebanon
Since the conflict in Lebanon escalated, the situation for Oromo workers has drastically worsened. With the economy crumbling and many employers unable to pay salaries or provide basic support, Oromo workers find themselves in dire circumstances. Some have been displaced as homes were destroyed, while others have lost their jobs as their employers fled or were killed in the violence. The urgency of their situation cannot be overstated.
Since Monday, September 30, 2024, Oromo workers in Lebanon have been reaching out to the ORA, a reputable humanitarian organisation dedicated to supporting Oromo in workers in crisis situations. Communication has primarily occurred through a WhatsApp group that was set up as a lifeline for these workers. Members of the Oromo community in Beirut, especially women, have been sending voice recordings, videos, and text messages describing their difficult situations.
One of the first messages received was from a young woman who had been living with a family in Beirut. She reported that the family’s home had been destroyed, and most of the family members had tragically passed away. Only she and a young boy, who had been working outside the home washing cars, survived. She described her current situation, explaining that she is now living on the streets with other Oromo workers, uncertain of what will happen next, and has not received any help so far. She lost her clothes, the money she had earned, and even her phone. She communicated through another individual on the street. As a result, she lost contact with the broker who brought her to Beirut, making it difficult for her to seek assistance or leave the country.
A second message came from another young woman who reported that the family she had been living with fled immediately when the conflict started, leaving her behind without even her clothes, just barely saving her life. She mentioned having no food or clothing and having to beg for a place to sleep. She is confused about where to go and is pleading for help to return to Ethiopia. We have also heard other shocking situations, such as a girl who was locked in one of the buildings while her family fled to Dubai. Many others have been left on the street, evicted by families as they flee to other countries.
Ongoing efforts and collaboration
The ORA continues to monitor the situation in Beirut and Lebanon. The WhatsApp group has become a critical tool for staying in touch with the workers and collecting their reports. However, the need for international support and collaboration is crucial as the crisis deepens and the number of those affected increases. Your support—whether in the form of financial aid, clothing, food, or facilitate travel assistance could make a significant difference in the lives of these workers.
ORA remains committed to working with local and international partners to provide relief to these vulnerable Oromo workers in Lebanon. With continued efforts, these women and others impacted by the conflict will receive the assistance they desperately need.