Council of Advisors

“The measure of a leader is not the throne he sits on, but the lives he lifts up.”

— HIRH Prince Gharios El Chemor

The Advisory Council of the Sovereign Imperial and Royal House of Ghassan, recognized as an Intergovernmental Organization (IGO), is composed of distinguished individuals who offer strategic counsel, policy recommendations, and subject-matter expertise to support the House’s global mission. Representing a broad spectrum of disciplines—including international law, diplomacy, humanitarian relief, development economics, theology, cultural preservation, peacebuilding, and governance—the Advisory Council ensures that the House's initiatives remain credible, collaborative, and aligned with international standards.

Purpose and Function

The Advisory Council is a non-executive body that:

• Provides independent and informed advice to the Sovereign Council and Executive Secretariat

• Assists in the development of programs, partnerships, and public policy strategies

• Supports the House’s representation at multilateral institutions such as the United Nations, UNESCO, and ECOSOC

• Advises on matters of international law, sovereignty, human rights, conflict resolution, and intercultural dialogue

• Acts as a consultative forum for member states, partner organizations, and civil society

While the Advisory Council does not exercise executive or sovereign authority, its role is vital to the IGO’s transparency, legitimacy, and effectiveness.

Composition

Council members are appointed by invitation of the Sovereign Council and approved by the Grand Chancellor. Members include:

• Former and current diplomats, heads of state, and ministers

• Leading academics, jurists, and scholars

• Senior faith leaders and representatives of historic religious institutions

• Esteemed professionals in the humanitarian and development sectors

• Advisors representing indigenous peoples and minority communities

Council members serve in their capacity, offering objective guidance based on their recognized experience and ethical commitment.

Key Areas of Advisory Expertise

• International Governance & Sovereignty
  Advising on legal frameworks relevant to royal houses, sovereign entities, and IGOs

• Humanitarian Affairs & Global Development
  Supporting relief work, sustainable development, and the 2030 Agenda

• Religious Freedom & Cultural Heritage
  Preserving the legacy of Arab Christians and advancing interfaith peace

• Conflict Prevention & Reconciliation
  Engaging in strategic consultation on post-conflict recovery and reconciliation initiatives

• Education & Diplomatic Training
  Assisting in the development of programs offered by the Royal Ghassanid Academy of Arts and Sciences

Council Meetings and Engagement

The Advisory Council convenes formally twice per year and may be called upon for emergency consultation by the Sovereign Council. Council members may also be invited to attend diplomatic events, international conferences, or serve on temporary working groups to address urgent policy concerns.

Membership Invitation

Appointments to the Advisory Council are extended to individuals who demonstrate:

• A distinguished record of public service, scholarship, or global leadership

• A commitment to the values of peace, justice, cultural preservation, and human dignity

• A willingness to serve with integrity and discretion in support of the House’s mission

If you are interested in nominating someone or learning more about the criteria for membership, please contact the Office of the Grand Chancellor.

In Service to Humanity

The Advisory Council reflects the Royal House’s enduring commitment to service over status, where nobility is measured not by title, but by contribution to the common good.

Together, Council members help guide the House’s vision to be a beacon of peace, dignity, and intergovernmental cooperation in the twenty-first century and beyond.