The World Lebanese Cultural Union (WLCU) is a well-established international organization at the center of the Lebanese diaspora movement and one of the oldest Lebanese expatriate institutions. Founded in 1959 in Mexico City and officially established in Lebanon in 1960, its primary objectives are to unite Lebanese communities abroad, preserve their cultural identity and national heritage, promote Lebanese culture worldwide, and strengthen their connection with their homeland.

The WLCU is a non-political, non-sectarian, and non-profit organization that collaborates with Lebanese communities across various continents. It consists of branches and national councils in dozens of countries, with the main goal of enhancing the identity and communication among Lebanese and their descendants. The organization aims to spread Lebanese culture and heritage to future generations, gathering Lebanese people under a common cultural umbrella, away from narrow divisions.

The WLCU is more than just an organizational framework; it has been, and continues to be, a beacon illuminating Lebanon’s presence around the world. It serves as a source of cultural and social activities that preserve Lebanese heritage and reflect the essence of the Lebanese identity in the diaspora. The WLCU has brought the name of Lebanon to international forums and has contributed to enhancing the image of Lebanese communities as a dynamic and influential cultural force.

In light of the statement issued by the central secretariat on February 14, 2026, the WLCU expressed regret over what it described as a misleading campaign regarding the legitimacy of the procedures related to the Continental Council elections in Australia. The statement clearly affirmed that the calls and mechanisms in place adhered to internal regulations and applicable laws, refuting claims circulated on social media. It emphasized that the ongoing discussions are merely attempts to tarnish the image of a prestigious institution that unites Lebanese people around their culture and identity, rather than to fracture their efforts. The WLCU underscored that it serves as a unified cultural and social voice, with no room for divisions that weaken the Lebanese diaspora and scatter its energies.

The statement noted that Ghassan Ghachy, Youssef Abdul Samad, and Ali Al-Ashi had previously announced their withdrawal from the WLCU, resulting in the automatic forfeiture of their membership according to established regulations. The secretariat stressed that any statements or actions from these individuals do not represent the World Lebanese Cultural Union.

Differences of opinion are natural in any democratic institution; however, turning those differences into a public campaign of doubt and defamation against a venerable organization only serves to deepen divisions and does not benefit Lebanon or its communities. It is unfortunate when personal ambitions morph into attempts to destabilize an institution founded on unity and which has established its presence over more than six decades of cultural and social work.

Now, more than ever, the Lebanese diaspora needs to unite rather than fragment, to build rather than destroy. The World Lebanese Cultural Union is not owned by individuals but is a collective space for all Lebanese who believe that the diaspora is a strength and that maintaining Lebanon’s image in the world is a collective responsibility.

These attempts to undermine the WLCU are not new but highlight the importance of unity and the need to protect national institutions from personal interests and narrow agendas. Since its inception, the WLCU has remained a beacon illuminating the skies of Lebanon abroad and a source of cultural and social activities that kindle the spirit of belonging among Lebanese wherever they may be.

The Lebanese diaspora is a genuine force, and the WLCU represents this strength on cultural and social fronts. It is essential for the WLCU to remain a unified, strong institution recognized at the highest international levels, defending the interests of the communities and elevating Lebanon’s name on global stages.

The question remains: why do some seek to tarnish an institution that has always been a symbol of unity and belonging? The answer lies in promoting transparency and institutional work rather than in media campaigns.

Lebanon is greater than individuals, and its venerable institutions deserve protection rather than targeting.