CAFOD works across the Middle East with people of all ethnicities and faiths to protect human rights and build peaceful communities.
The Middle East, home to faith traditions embraced by over half the world's population, has been deeply impacted by ongoing and escalating conflicts. These conflicts have led to widespread displacement, material deprivation and violations of basic human rights, threatening the dignity and security of countless individuals and families.
The escalation of the conflict in Gaza, Lebanon, the West Bank and Israel has left millions of lives devastated with widespread displacement, economic devastation and spiralling humanitarian needs. CAFOD is responding to these urgent crises while continuing to support those affected by longstanding conflicts and divisions.
Where we work in the Middle East
How your donations help families in the Middle East
CAFOD works across the Middle East, supporting vulnerable communities and addressing both immediate needs and long-term solutions:
Emergency response and resilience building
In response to the escalating conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and the wider region, CAFOD is prioritising emergency healthcare, mental health support, safe shelter, food packages, hygiene kits, and cash assistance to families displaced by violence. We also work with partners to build community resilience in the face of ongoing crises.
Protecting rights and advocacy
We work to ensure that people’s basic rights are upheld through protective advocacy, monitoring of abuses, and access to legal aid. This helps vulnerable communities live with dignity, free from violence and oppression.
Economic empowerment
By providing access to properly paid work, we help families escape the poverty trap and gain the resources they need to rebuild their lives.
Engaging young people and women
Our partners encourage young people and women to become active citizens, contributing meaningfully to social cohesion, peacebuilding, and the development of more secure and inclusive communities.
Community dialogue and peacebuilding
We implement projects that foster community meetings, promoting a culture of encounter and dialogue. These initiatives encourage understanding and cooperation among diverse groups, laying the groundwork for sustainable peace in conflict-affected areas.
Advocacy and influence
Through advocacy initiatives, we amplify the voices of our partners and the communities they serve to policy and decision-makers in the UK, Europe, and beyond, pushing for just and peaceful solutions to conflicts.
Donate to the Middle East Humanitarian Appeal
News from the Middle East
What we do
CAFOD is the official aid agency for the Catholic Church in England and Wales.
With your help, we reach out to people living in hard-to-reach places, in war zones and those who are discriminated against.