The project studies the significance of tribal networks in the lives of Syrian refugees in Lebanon and Jordan. In particular, the project aims to focus on employment, economic circumstances, and the role of women in making a living.

Data were collected in the form of interviews and observations in the tribe’s home area in northern Jordan, north-eastern Lebanon, and the Wadi Khaled region, as well as in the surroundings of Tripoli.

Bani Khalid is one of the largest tribes in northern Jordan, and tribe members from Syria have often been able to settle in the tribe’s villages. Syrian seasonal workers with a tribal background have been working in the fields and vineyards of Lebanon since long before the war, and these connections have been utilized when temporary residence has turned into year-round living as refugees. Syrian refugees have actively founded small businesses, such as shops, restaurants, barber shops, and garages. Informants in both Wadi Khaled in Lebanon and the villages of northern Jordan mentioned that there were hardly any small businesses in these areas before the Syrians came.

Outcomes:

• An inception report which includes the updated work plan, and which incorporates the Advisory Committee’s recommendations and feedback following the proposal presentation workshop that took place at the Issam Fares Institute from May 28-29, 2018.
• One progress narrative report to include the progress of the fieldwork, data collected, and preliminary research findings reached until the date of submission of the progress report.
• First draft of the research paper of the case study for internal review.
• A final research paper including a literature review, detailed methodology, research findings and recommendations.