In his speech, Mr. Paoli pays tribute, through the person of Pierre Issa, to the many interventions of arcenciel, which he describes as an “atypical organization” and a “unique structure in the Lebanese associative scene.” He emphasizes Mr. Issa’s will to establish and transmit, and describes him as a convinced Humanist, with a pioneering vision, who always prioritized exchange and transmission.

On June 28th 2014, H.E. Mr Patrice Paoli, Ambassador of France in Lebanon delivers to Pierre Issa, co-founder and current director of arcenciel, the insignia of Chevalier in the National Order of the Legion of Honor. The ceremony took place in the Jesuit domain in Taanayel, in the presence of a small group of relatives, friends and arcenciel volunteers.

In his speech, Mr. Issa underscores the well-known action of arcenciel in several fields left aside by public authorities including disadvantaged youth, environment and agriculture. He especially wanted to show gratitude to all the anonymous volunteers on whose behalf he received this distinction; this legion of men and women who supported the action of arcenciel and helped bring even higher this common dream; the one to best serve people in need.