In 2023, we decided to honor the six Palestinan civil society/human rights organizations that had been outlawed by the Israeli government as part of a campaign to weaken civil society in Palestine and criminilize human rights activists. These organizations, based in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT), were not able to send representatives to the International Rescuers Day ceremony, yet we honored their steadfast commitment to helping people, despite the persecution and obstacles they face. The six are:
Al-Haq, a prominent Palestinian human rights organization established in 1979. Based in the OPT, it is dedicated to defending and promoting human rights, particularly within the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Al-Haq monitors, documents, and reports on violations of international human rights and humanitarian law by all parties involved in the conflict. The organization plays a crucial role in advocating for justice and accountability, providing legal assistance to victims, and raising awareness globally. Al-Haq’s work is recognized internationally, and it is often cited in discussions about the human rights situation in the occupied Palestinian territories.
Defense for Children International – Palestine (DCI-P), a human rights organization focused on promoting and protecting the rights of Palestinian children. Established in 1991, DCI-P is part of the global Defense for Children International network and operates in the occupied Palestinian territories. The organization monitors, documents, and reports on violations of children’s rights, including in East Jerusalem and Gaza, particularly those related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. DCI-P provides legal aid, advocacy, and educational programs, aiming to hold authorities accountable and ensure justice for child victims. Its work is widely recognized, contributing to international efforts to protect and uphold the rights of Palestinian children.
The Bisan Centre for Research and Development, a Palestinian non-governmental organization established in 1989. It aims to empower marginalized communities, particularly youth and women, through research, advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives. Bisan focuses on socio-economic, political, and cultural issues affecting Palestinians, providing critical analysis to support grassroots development and inform policy decisions. The organization engages in research projects that address key challenges faced by Palestinian society, offering evidence-based insights to promote social justice and equality. Bisan also works on enhancing civil society participation, fostering a culture of human rights, and advocating for sustainable development in Palestine.
The Union of Agricultural Work Committees (UAWC), founded in 1986. It is dedicated to supporting Palestinian farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. UAWC focuses on improving agricultural practices, enhancing food security, and advocating for farmers’ rights. The organization provides technical assistance, training, and resources to help farmers adapt to challenges such as land confiscation, water scarcity, and economic hardship. UAWC also works to strengthen rural communities, promote food sovereignty, and ensure that agriculture remains a vital part of Palestinian resistance and resilience in the face of occupation.
Addameer Prisoner Support and Human Rights Association is a Palestinian non-governmental organization founded in 1992. It focuses on supporting Palestinian political prisoners held in Israeli and Palestinian prisons. Addameer provides legal aid, advocacy, and documentation services to detainees and their families, aiming to protect their rights and ensure fair treatment under international law. The organization also conducts research and raises awareness about issues such as arbitrary detention, torture, and administrative detention without trial. Through its work, Addameer seeks to challenge the systemic violations of human rights and promote justice for Palestinian prisoners, advocating for their release and fair treatment.
The Union of Palestinian Women’s Committees (UPWC) is a feminist grassroots organization established in 1980. It aims to empower Palestinian women, advocating for gender equality, social justice, and women’s rights within Palestinian society. UPWC focuses on enhancing women’s political participation, economic empowerment, and access to education and healthcare. The organization provides support services, including vocational training, legal aid, and awareness-raising programs, to help women achieve independence and challenge traditional gender roles. UPWC also plays an active role in the broader Palestinian struggle, linking women’s liberation with the national movement for freedom and self-determination.
Why these organizations are honored in the Garden of Rescuers: We honor these organizations and their members who are non-political, yet have been outlawed for political reasons. We honor them for the work they do for justice and improving the lives of women, children, orisoners, and ordinary citizens in the OPT.
