April 16, 2024
“Ghazal Foundation” for Education, Research, and Peace, in collaboration with “Fondation de France”, announced the winners of the prestigious “Avoiding Conflicts and Establishing Peace 2023 awards”. Fighters for Peace was honored with the first-place award, while Adyan Foundation received the second-place recognition. The announcement took place during a ceremony held at François Bassil Hall in the Innovation and Sports Campus – Saint Joseph University (USJ) on Saturday, April 13 2024. The event was attended by esteemed guests including Ziad Al-Makari, Minister of Information in the caretaker government, representatives from civil society, the media, and students.
Mr. Michel Ghazal, President of Ghazal Foundation, presented the awards to Mr. Ziad Saab, President of Fighters for Peace, and Dr. Nayla Tabbara, President of Adyan Foundation. Mrs. Axelle Davizac, President of Fondation de France, joined the ceremony remotely via Zoom platform.
During his speech, Minister Makari commended the outstanding efforts of Fighters for Peace and the Adyan Foundation, expressing his heartfelt congratulations to the winners. He emphasized the noble cause for which they were recognized, stating, “The commitment demonstrated by both organizations in fostering peace is truly commendable.”
Mr. Michel Ghazal, President of Ghazal Foundation, delivered a speech, reflecting on the significance of April 13 as the starting point of the Lebanese civil war. He acknowledged the existing divisions and wounds in the nation, highlighting the imperative of peaceful resolutions to conflicts. Ghazal praised Adyan’s film “Against the Current,” which sheds light on the challenges faced by peacebuilders, including the pursuit of harmony amid rejection and instability. He concluded his remarks by stating, “In the face of Lebanon’s perilous circumstances, we cannot remain idle. Let us be a beacon of light and hope, forging a path of coexistence.”
Dr. Nayla Tabbara, President of Adyan Foundation, delivered a message underscoring the role of Adyan in promoting unity in Lebanon, Iraq, and France. She lamented the daily violations of the values cherished by Adyan, such as diversity, solidarity, and human dignity, on a global scale. Dr. Tabbara expressed gratitude to Ghazal Foundation and Fondation de France on behalf of Adyan team, acknowledging the award as a motivation to continue their mission “towards a future where our “Against the Current” path becomes the chosen path for all.”
Mr. Asaad Al-Chaftari, Vice President of Fighters for Peace, expressed gratitude to Ghazal Foundation and Fondation de France for bestowing the award. In his address, he emphasized that the end of military operations did not bring about genuine reconciliation among the Lebanese people or with other stakeholders. Al-Chaftari regarded Ghazal Foundation’s Prize as a momentous occasion, reaffirming their unwavering commitment to their cause. He stated, “This award is both an honor and a responsibility that we wholeheartedly embrace.”
The ceremony featured screenings of “Adyan” and “Fighters for Peace” films, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of the organizations’ impactful work.
About Ghazal Foundation:
Ghazal Foundation for Education, Research, and Peace is a prominent institution dedicated to promoting peace and reconciliation in Lebanon, the region, and beyond. Through its annual awards, the foundation recognizes exceptional organizations and individuals who actively contribute to the avoidance of conflicts and the establishment of lasting peace.
About the Fondation de France:
Fondation de France is a leading philanthropic organization committed to supporting projects that address social, cultural, and environmental challenges. By partnering with institutions like the Ghazal Foundation, the Fondation de France aims to foster positive change and promote the well-being of communities.
