Democracy and Human Rights

Amel's activities in Human Rights and Democracy began in 2004, mainly targeting women and youth.

In July 2004, INITIATIVE I was launched, focusing on training and awareness sessions for women and children, a Human Rights project supported by the Dutch Government. The activities took place in 3 underprivileged areas of Lebanon : Beirut 's southern suburb, Bekaa region and the South for the duration of a year.

INITIATIVE I main objective was to stimulate women and youth's participation through the promotion of Human Rights and Democracy. In order to achieve this objective, Amel Association committed to train 7 members of its staff - 7 "focal points" or Women Leaders - who benefited from 50 hours intense training on Human Rights.

These members of staff today trainers themselves were thus enabled to diffuse and convey Human Rights values through awareness sessions intended to local populations. Through 92 sessions, Human Rights values were introduced to 1072 women in addition to 38 sessions organized for 1254 children from 13 schools. These school sessions were followed by a drawing competition allowing children to express themselves on Children's Rights.

During the final phase of this project, a cell of young volunteers was created. 28 young volunteers were trained in order to become actively involved in launching and supporting Amel's activities related to Human Rights.

Though the initial plan targeted around 800 beneficiaries, INITIATIVE I reached a far greater number of people: 2354 beneficiaries. The program also attracted numerous persons victim of Human Rights violations who were given the opportunity to express themselves during training sessions. Consequently, the program provided support to several cases victims of domestic violence, psychological constraints, social pressure and child abuse.

Further to the success of this project, the Dutch Government has granted Amel Association a second mandate (INITIATIVE II) in order to follow up and strengthen what has been achieved so far.

Find out more about Amel's Human Rights Programs