Amel is a movement for social change centered on human dignity and oriented towards the future. Guided by the principle of “Principle, Position, Practice,” Amel focuses on solutions, achievements, positive thinking, optimism, teamwork, and the collective “We.”

No. Amel is not a charity. It works in partnership with people and places dignity at the center of every program. The organization rejects language that implies pity or condescension and instead focuses on empowerment, knowledge, and tools for change.

Amel is a non-governmental, non-sectarian association founded in 1979 by Dr. Kamel Mohanna and a group of doctors, journalists, and activists. It works across Lebanon through centers and mobile units in health, education, protection, livelihood, and food security.

Amel embraces a non-sectarian approach by recognizing sectarianism as an inhumane way of relating to others. Its teams and centers reflect Lebanon’s diversity and are rooted in communities regardless of religious or political affiliation.

Amel is independent because it is not backed by political parties, families, or religious denominations. Its centers operate across Lebanon without regard to religious affiliation or political sensitivities, allowing the organization to control its work and maintain its values.

Amel’s values are justice, non-discrimination, respect, positivity, and inclusivity. Its philosophy is defined by the “3Ps”: principles defining a position that is put into practice.

Amel operates projects across Lebanon supported by local and international partners. These projects span five sectors: health, protection, education, food security, and livelihood, implemented through centers and mobile units.

• Relief and Emergency Response
• Support to Migrants
• Combating Human Trafficking
• Youth Leadership and Volunteerism
• Support to Refugees
• Primary Healthcare
• Livelihood
• Women Empowerment
• Older People
• Amel House of Human Rights
• Child Protection
• Education
• Food Security
• Mental Health
• Environment and Sustainable Agriculture

Amel’s footprint includes 32 centers across Lebanon, 6 offices in 5 countries, 6 medical mobile units, 2 satellite units, 2 educational units, 2 protection units, and around 1,500 workers and volunteers.

Amel Association International is a global humanitarian movement with a physical presence in several countries, including Lebanon, France, the United States, Switzerland, Italy, and Belgium.

• Lebanon: comprehensive humanitarian aid and services through centers and mobile units.
• France: advocacy, fundraising, and community engagement.
• USA: solidarity, community programs, and support for youth, migrants, and refugees.
• Switzerland: Geneva-based policy advocacy and international cooperation.
• Italy: environmental projects, composting, migration support, and advocacy.
• Belgium: advocacy toward European humanitarian and social policy.

Amel is connected to international platforms including ECOSOC, IOM, ICVA, G2H2, Core Humanitarian Standards, and the People’s Health Movement.

Amel’s near-future goals include accreditation and standards for all centers, expansion to new areas, stronger environmental and climate action, and more income-generating initiatives for women and youth. Its long-term goals include strengthening its work in Africa, South America, and South Asia.

Dignity For All.

Dr. Kamel Mohanna is the founding president of Amel Association International, a pediatric specialist, professor at the Lebanese University, and one of Lebanon’s leading humanitarian figures. His lifelong dedication to solidarity, social justice, and human dignity has shaped Amel’s identity and international presence.

• Nobel Peace Prize nominations in 2019 and 2021.
• Commander of the Order of the Crown, Belgium, in 2023.
• French Legion d’Honneur in 2009.
• Lebanese National Order of the Cedar in 1998.