About – Mesewat

About Us

Building a safer, just, and empowered future for migrant workers.

Mesewat is a non-governmental, non-religious, non-racial, and non-profit solidarity network dedicated to supporting migrant workers in Lebanon and the Middle East. We stand in solidarity with those who face exploitation, abuse, and discrimination, providing immediate and long-term support to help them reclaim their dignity, rights, and futures.

Since our founding in 2014, we have been a lifeline for migrant workers in distress, offering shelter, legal aid, education, and advocacy. Our work is driven by compassion, justice, and the firm belief that every worker deserves to be treated with respect and fairness.

10+

Years of Experience

1200+

Migrant Workers Supported

350+

Families Reached

100+

Emergency Shelters Arranged

10+

Community Partners

Inside Lebanon

A quarterly online publication sharing real-life stories of migrant workers and updates on advocacy efforts for their rights.

Shelter

Providing safe, temporary housing for migrant workers in distress through our network of supporters.

Education

Offering private tutoring to help children of migrant workers develop essential reading, writing, and language skills.

Daycare Services

Affordable daycare services allowing migrant mothers to work while their children learn and grow in a safe environment.

Mesewat was founded in April 2014 by Rahel Zegeye, a human rights activist, writer, and filmmaker. Inspired by her own experiences and the stories of countless migrant workers, Rahel has dedicated her life to advocating for justice and change. Through her films and documentaries, she brings the struggles and resilience of migrant workers into the spotlight. Her latest film, Shouting Without a Listener, sheds light on the harsh realities that many migrant workers face every day.

Mesewat started as a small network of dedicated individuals and has since grown into a powerful movement for change. Today, we work with migrant workers, lawyers, medical professionals, and global organizations to offer a comprehensive support system that addresses the immediate and long-term needs of the community.

Our Vision

We envision Lebanon as a country in which migrant domestic workers are protected by the law and can claim their rights to work without harm, have fair and timely compensation, and have adequate rest. Also, Build stronger and protected migrant workers community in Lebanon.

Our Mission

Raise awareness about migrant working conditions in Lebanon, build a learning community through continuous capacity building and knowledge sharing, and create a comprehensive support system for all community members where we treat each other with love and respect, and work hand in hand to achieve our goals successfully, advocate for laws that protect our rights.