In a visit reflecting the deep historical and human ties between Lebanon and Algeria, Dr. Kamel Mohanna, President of Amel Association International, received Mr. Mohamed Bencheikh, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria in Lebanon, at the association’s main headquarters in Mseitbeh.
The meeting was attended by Dr. Abderraouf Hejazi, Inspector General at the Lebanese Parliament, journalist Hussein Ayoub, Editor-in-Chief of “180 Degrees”, and Mr. Ahmad Salman, head of the Al-Safir Forum.
People First: From Mseitbeh to Haret Hreik
The discussion addressed current humanitarian and social challenges in Lebanon and the region, as well as the critical role of humanitarian organizations in strengthening community resilience and protecting human dignity and rights amid escalating crises. Participants emphasized the importance of investing in people as a foundation for change, the complexities of displacement, and the need to revive Arab–Arab cooperation in development and empowerment, inspired by shared liberation histories — especially Algeria’s renowned anti-colonial revolution.
Following the meeting, the delegation visited the Amel Human Skills Development Center in Haret Hreik, touring its health, social, and educational programs. The visitors also met with community members and service users who described the center as their “second home” and a space for support and empowerment.
Amel: A Humanitarian Beacon Inspired by Liberation
During the tour, Dr. Mohanna presented Amel’s mission rooted in dignity, social justice, and human potential, stressing the organization’s inspiration from the values of Algeria’s great revolution, which stands as a global model of resistance and human development. He noted that Amel sees itself as a movement for social transformation, grounded in the rights and struggles of the people.
He further explained that Amel operates a nationwide network of 40 fixed centers, 23 mobile clinics, mobile education and child protection units, and over 2,300 youth staff, most of them from local communities. Together, they form a deeply rooted, effective humanitarian system driven by commitment, justice, and solidarity.
From Algeria with Respect: Humanitarian Work as a Liberation Bridge
At the end of the visit, Mr. Mohamed Bencheikh expressed deep appreciation for Amel’s work, stating:
“What we witnessed today proves that Amel is more than just an organization — it is a school of humanity. Your dedicated service to the vulnerable reflects the very values upon which Algeria was built: solidarity, resistance, and dignity. We salute Dr. Mohanna and the Amel team for this pioneering model that honors both Lebanon and the Arab world. Our partnership with you is a natural extension of the liberating spirit that unites our nations.”
Dr. Hejazi, Mr. Ayoub, and Mr. Salman also praised Amel’s grassroots humanitarian efforts — especially in underserved areas — noting that the organization is driven by a deep commitment to human dignity, justice, and people-centered development.
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