Introduction

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In 2022, LGBTQIA+ people in Lebanon faced a sharp escalation in human rights violations amid one of the country’s worst economic, political, and institutional collapses. As the state struggled with a paralyzed judiciary, deteriorating public services, and widespread poverty, LGBTQIA+ individuals—especially refugees and economically vulnerable groups—experienced intensified discrimination, violence, and barriers to basic needs. The year saw an unprecedented surge in hate campaigns, attempts by authorities to ban queer gatherings, and assaults by extremist groups, creating an atmosphere of fear and repression. Helem documented 3,699 cases, including 1,665 violations ranging from physical violence and sexual assault to homelessness, blackmail, and unlawful arrest, reflecting the systemic and compounding risks facing the community. This report presents these findings within their broader national context and underscores the urgent need for legal protection, institutional accountability, and inclusive support systems to safeguard LGBTQIA+ individuals in Lebanon.