Al-Haq’s rigorous research and advocacy, often conducted under difficult conditions, have been key to protecting international law in Occupied Palestinian Territory. In particular, Al-Haq has repeatedly denounced businesses’ involvement in projects conducted in illegal Israeli settlements.
Shawan Jabarin, General Director of Al-Haq
"The award is seen as a tribute to all human rights defenders, and to the rule of law and justice. It is an affirmation that a business that does not respect human rights is a partner of violations and crimes, and needs to be pursued and exposed in order to limit and prevent the continuation of the violations and the collection of wealth and money at the expense of pain, freedom and rights.”
Alice Mogwe, president of FIDH, said: "Al-Haq’s work is critical to the protection of the human rights of the Palestinian people. However, as is the case for many defenders around the world, Al-Haq itself has been the target of threats, smear campaigns, intimidation and attacks. Awarded just one day after Omar Shakir’s expulsion from Israel—a decision which has taken the state yet one step further away from international standards protecting human rights and the rule of law—this award sends a message of hope to human rights defenders to continue their essential work." Al-Haq is a member-organisation of FIDH.
The Israeli Supreme Court ruled earlier this month to uphold the government’s decision to revoke the work visa of Omar Shakir, the Israel and Palestine director of Human Rights Watch, leading to his being forced to leave the country.
For more information about Al-Haq’s work and the award, read the press release of the Human Rights and Business Award Foundation.