Abstract
The International Labour Organization (ILO), through its BOUZOUR project, has released a new report examining recruitment mechanisms and working conditions in Lebanon’s agriculture sector. Conducted as part of the BOUZOUR project— “Building Inclusive Markets and Decent Work for Syrian Refugees and Lebanese Host Communities”—and funded by the Swedish International Development Agency (Sida), the research sheds light on the realities of how seasonal agricultural workers are recruited and the conditions they face on the job. The study provides a detailed analysis of the recruitment systems, with a particular focus on the role of labour brokers known as Shawish, as well as other systems in place widely used to connect farmers with agricultural workers. The research sheds light on the challenges workers face, including low wages, poor working conditions, and lack of social protection. It also assesses how these recruitment mechanisms impact workers and perpetuate decent work deficits. This research is part of ILO’s broader effort to strengthen Lebanon’s agriculture sector by addressing its structural challenges and supporting fair recruitment practices.