In a pivotal step toward reinforcing the ethics of humanitarian work, Amel Association International, in partnership with the CHS Alliance, launched the updated version of the Core Humanitarian Standard on Quality and Accountability (CHS) during a high-level meeting in Beirut. The event brought together representatives of international and local organizations and leading experts in humanitarian response and development.
Present at the gathering were Dr. Kamel Mohanna, President of Amel Association, board members Dr. Ahmed Abboud and Dr. Zeina Mohanna, along with representatives from HelpAge International, Caritas Switzerland, Nabaa, ABAAD, Amel field teams, and other humanitarian actors in Lebanon.
Accountability Builds Trust
The event opened with remarks from Dr. Zeina Mohanna, who emphasized that the updated CHS is the outcome of a long journey of fieldwork and continuous evaluation. She stressed that true trust with affected communities is only achieved through transparency, meaningful listening, and institutionalizing principles of quality and accountability across organizations.
Centering People in Every Decision
In his opening remarks, Bonaventure Sokpoh from the CHS Alliance explained that the updated standard is a key step forward in promoting transparency and empowering communities to actively participate in decisions impacting their lives.
Human Dignity as a Compass
In a powerful keynote, Dr. Kamel Mohanna declared:
“Any humanitarian project, policy, or intervention loses its meaning when it drifts away from people and their dignity.”
He continued: “Dignity is not a slogan. It’s our compass—protecting our work from exploitation and guiding it with purpose.”
Dr. Mohanna addressed the deepening socio-economic and political crises in Lebanon, highlighting that the resilience of its people stems from authentic social and humanitarian initiatives. He reiterated that humanitarian work is not peripheral—it is central to social stability.
He also made a critical link between human rights and environmental justice, stating:
“We cannot defend humanity while allowing the destruction of the earth we live on. Human justice cannot exist without environmental justice.”
Amel: A Humanitarian Movement, Not Just a Service Provider
Dr. Mohanna outlined Amel’s approach: transforming people from victims into active agents of change. With 40 fixed centers, 24 mobile clinics, mobile education units, and child protection teams, Amel operates across Lebanon’s most marginalized areas with over 2,300 dedicated staff and volunteers.
“Our goal isn’t just delivering programs—it’s empowering people, amplifying their voices, and supporting their journey toward justice and dignity.”
Panel Discussion: Turning Principles into Practice
A dynamic panel discussion followed, featuring representatives from HelpAge International, Caritas Switzerland, Nabaa, ABAAD, and Amel, moderated by Mr. Rodolphe Gabriel. The dialogue focused on accountability to affected communities, the importance of transparency, and protection mechanisms for vulnerable groups.
Video materials were also showcased, illustrating practical implementations of the CHS and how its principles can be transformed into measurable, effective actions.
Commitment Beyond the Launch
The event concluded with a Q&A session and a networking segment, reinforcing that the CHS is not a static document—it’s a living ethical commitment. A collective roadmap to ensure dignity, accountability, and shared responsibility in every humanitarian action.
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