Highlight by Sara Elouta, Programs Manager of the Athar Network

Emotional and Social Solidarity

In times of crisis, our first instinct is human connection. We come together to offer emotional and moral support—not just by sharing resources but by being present and fostering a sense of belonging. During the escalation of war, Athar Lebanon provided virtual and in-person safe spaces for members to share their experiences and emotions. These gatherings became a refuge for those facing personal and collective hardships, offering both comfort and practical ways forward.

At the same time, Athar Lebanon mobilized to address humanitarian gaps, particularly for families outside official shelters. Through coordinated efforts, members provided essential supplies, transportation, and psychosocial support for displaced children—ensuring that Athar was not just witnessing but actively responding. Meanwhile, Athar Palestine members launched an emergency support initiative for Gaza, where those outside the besieged region pooled resources to provide direct financial assistance to affected members and their families. This effort not only alleviated immediate hardships but also strengthened connections between members across borders, proving the power of collective action in times of crisis.

Solidarity as Mobilization and Response

When a member, community, or cause calls for action, Athar stands in support, ensuring that responses are shaped by the needs of those directly affected. This year, Athar mobilized around several key calls to action:

• #SesYok for Syrian Refugees in Turkey: As hate crimes and forced deportations escalated, Athar members took action through protests and social media advocacy, countering racism and amplifying the voices of displaced Syrians.
• Palestinian Prisoners’ Campaign: We hosted a session with Palestinian lawyer Khaled Mahajna, exposing the brutal conditions inside Israeli prisons. The discussion sparked a coordinated response, with members launching media campaigns and advocacy efforts.

Knowledge and Skills-Based Solidarity

Beyond direct action, Athar provides critical tools and expertise to help members navigate challenges and strengthen their movements. One example was a workshop led by experts Hala Ahed and Nisreen Haj Ahmad on electoral laws and coalition-building, organized by Athar Jordan. The session provided practical insights into Jordan’s new election law, equipping grassroots leaders with strategies to form alliances capable of driving systemic change.

Solidarity as Resilience

At the heart of our solidarity efforts is the principle of resilience. Athar is not just a network—it is a protective space where members support one another, sustain their activism, and remain steadfast in their struggles. Resilience is not only about surviving challenges but about turning them into opportunities. Athar members take experiences of adversity and transform them into fuel for renewed advocacy and action.

Looking Ahead

In 2025, Athar will continue to strengthen and expand its solidarity efforts, from enhancing regional coordination to leveraging digital tools for collective action. Together, we are not just enduring—we are growing, standing hand in hand, and moving forward with unwavering commitment.