Personal Info
- Country of residence: Palestine
Information
Raji Al-Sourani, born in 1954, is a prominent Palestinian lawyer and human rights activist based in the Gaza Strip. Throughout his career, he has been deeply involved in national and political activities, as well as advocating for human rights causes.
In 1979, Al-Sourani faced repercussions for his activism when Israeli occupation forces barred him from leaving the Gaza Strip and subsequently arrested him for three years. This was followed by a significant restriction in 1986, when the Israeli military governor issued a far-reaching decree preventing him from practicing law, visiting prisons, meeting with detainees, or representing clients in court. Despite these challenges, Al-Sourani persisted in his commitment to defending human rights and promoting justice.
In April 1990, Al-Sourani assumed leadership of the Gaza Center for Rights and Law, an organization founded in 1985. Under his direction, the center became known for publishing impartial reports and studies, earning recognition such as the Kennedy Award for Human Rights and the Best Branch Award from the International Commission of Jurists in 1991.
In April 1995, Al-Sourani went on to establish the Palestinian Center for Human Rights along with a group of colleagues who shared his dedication to human rights. Despite facing adversity, including dismissals and challenges from authorities, the center flourished and became a leading civil institution in the Gaza Strip focused on advancing human rights.
Al-Sourani's contributions to the field of human rights extended beyond Gaza. He was selected as a member of the Board of Directors of the Arab Organization for Human Rights in Cairo in 1997, and later elected Vice-President of the International Federation for Human Rights in 2000. He also served on the Independent Election Commission of the International Commission for Human Rights in 2003 and was appointed Commissioner of the International Commission of Jurists.
In recognition of his outstanding dedication and achievements, Al-Sourani was elected Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Arab Organization for Human Rights in 2011. Furthermore, he was awarded the prestigious Alternative Nobel Prize in 2013 for his unwavering commitment to human rights.
Most recently, in February 2022, Al-Sourani was appointed as a judge at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, based on the recommendation of the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This appointment underscores his expertise and standing as a respected jurist in the international community.
Achievements and Awards
In recognition of his tireless advocacy and dedication to human rights, Raji Al-Sourani has received numerous prestigious international awards throughout his career. Some of these awards include:
- The French Republic Prize for Human Rights in 1995: This award, bestowed by the French government, acknowledges individuals who have made significant contributions to the promotion and protection of human rights globally. Al-Sourani's efforts in advancing human rights in the Gaza Strip earned him this esteemed recognition.
- The Bronokraisky Prize for Outstanding Achievements in the Field of Human Rights in 2002: This award honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and accomplishments in the field of human rights. Al-Sourani's impactful work as a lawyer and human rights activist, despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles, led to his receipt of this prestigious prize.
- The International Services Organization for Human Rights Award in 2003: This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of human rights on an international scale. Al-Sourani's relentless efforts to defend human rights, particularly in the context of the Gaza Strip, earned him this esteemed accolade.
- These awards serve as testament to Raji Al-Sourani's unwavering commitment to promoting justice, defending human rights, and advocating for the rights of individuals living in conflict-affected areas such as the Gaza Strip. His work has not only garnered international recognition but has also inspired others to join the fight for human rights around the world.
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