Bourj el-Barajneh Refugee Camp
In 1948 after Israel was recognised, thousands of Palestinians fled the North of Palestine being forced to cross the border to Lebanon. Bourj Al Barajneh is one of 12 recognised Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon, established in 1948. Today there are over 25,000 people living in just 1 square kilometre. The camp is located in a politically sensitive area, close to the airport and the Hizbollah stronghold making it vulnerable to attacks. Houses have been precariously stacked upon one another, against building laws in Lebanon. Electricity is technically “illegal” in the camps meaning it is dangerously spliced from main lines outside of the camp resulting in numerous deaths each year. Because the electricity is “illegal” the Government has the power to turn off the electricity in the camp, which it often does for days at a time. Palestinians are barred by law from working in over 70 “protected professions” and many camps are surrounded by army check points and cars are searched before being allowed to enter, restricting the movement of Palestinians. Palestinians are also unable to travel outside of Lebanon, unless they are sponsored by a formal body. Basic utilities are restricted because they signify the permanence of the camps, Palestinians are not allowed to own property in Lebanon. Australian Aid organisation APEDA (Union Aid Abroad) has worked tirelessly to support the Women's Health Organisation WHO and the Kindergarten so mothers can seek whatever work they can to support their families. Due to the work restrictions for the Palestinians in Lebanon it is usually low paid work such as cleaning and labour.