
Michael Tarazi
Articulate Palestinian legal advocate
- Born
- 1965
- Born in
- Kuwait City, Kuwait
Why Michael is here
Renowned for his role as a legal advisor and spokesman for the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), advocating for Palestinian rights on international platforms.
Their story
Michael Tarazi is a Palestinian-American lawyer and former adviser to the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). He is well-known for his articulate advocacy of Palestinian rights and his role in negotiations and public communication for the PLO. Tarazi has also contributed significantly to financial inclusion efforts in developing countries through his work with the Consultative Group to Assist the Poor (CGAP).
Milestones
The moments that shaped Michael’s path.
Graduated from Harvard University and Harvard Law School
Completed his undergraduate and law degrees at these prestigious institutions, providing a strong foundation for his legal and advocacy work.
2000
Joined the Palestine Liberation Organization
Moved to Ramallah to work as a legal and communications advisor to the PLO's negotiating team, playing a crucial role in representing Palestinian interests in international media.
2002
Described by Wall Street Journal
Featured in a front-page article in the Wall Street Journal as "the most articulate and sophisticated Palestinian advocate to come along in years".
2004
Op-Ed in The New York Times
Wrote an influential op-ed advocating for a one-state solution to the Israeli occupation of Palestine, emphasizing the shared infrastructure and intertwined nature of Israeli and Palestinian lives.
2008
Joined CGAP
Began working with the Consultative Group to Assist the Poor, focusing on financial inclusion and microfinance, particularly in developing countries.
Legacy
What they built, changed and left behind.
Advocacy for Palestinian Rights
As a legal advisor and spokesman for the PLO, Tarazi effectively communicated the Palestinian perspective to international audiences, highlighting the impacts of the Israeli occupation of Palestine. He played a critical role in explaining Palestinian demands and negotiating positions during peace talks.
Public Communication and Media Engagement
Tarazi has been a prominent voice in major media outlets such as CNN, NBC, ABC, and the BBC, ensuring that Palestinian narratives are represented and understood globally. His articulate presentations have helped to shift public opinion and increase awareness about Palestinian issues.
WatchEducational Outreach
Tarazi has engaged in extensive public speaking at universities and international forums, educating audiences about the Israeli occupation of Palestine and advocating for just and equitable solutions. His efforts have contributed to a greater understanding of the Palestinian plight and the need for international support.
Promotion of the One-State Solution
In his 2004 op-ed in The New York Times, Tarazi advocated for a one-state solution to the Israeli occupation of Palestine, arguing that it would affirm the equal rights of Christians, Muslims, and Jews in the Holy Land. This bold stance brought attention to alternative solutions for lasting peace and justice in the region.
Support for Palestinian Negotiations
As a legal and communications advisor for the PLO, Tarazi played a key role in advising Palestinian negotiators, helping to shape strategies that promoted Palestinian self-determination and rights. His contributions were instrumental in presenting a coherent and compelling case for Palestinian aspirations during peace negotiations.
Watch
Ask about Michael
Curious about something? An AI guide answers from Michael’s profile.
Michael’s guide AI
Answers come from Michael’s profile on this page. It isn’t Michael, and it can make mistakes.
What would you like to know about Michael?
Ask in your own words about Michael’s early life, work, the moments that shaped them, or their legacy. The guide answers only from this profile, so if something isn’t covered, it will tell you.
AI-generated from this profile. Spotted something wrong? Correct or add information.
Watch & listen
Michael in interviews, talks and coverage.
Further reading
Something wrong or missing?
Help improve Michael Tarazi’s profile. Send a correction, a source, a photo or missing information. An editor checks every update before publication.
Keep exploring
More faces from Palestinian Americans
Science & Techb. 1965Omar Yaghi
Chemist, 2025 Nobel laureate and Tsinghua chair professor
Amman, Jordan
Read their story
Palestinian Americansb. 1964Maha Freij
Former ACCESS president and chief executive officer
Palestine
Read their story
Palestinian Americansb. 1964Saree Makdisi
UCLA distinguished professor, author and cultural critic
Washington, D.C., United States
Read their story
Palestinian Americansb. 1963Joseph Massad
Professor of Modern Arab Politics and Intellectual History at Columbia University
Jordan
Read their story