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Portrait of Raji Sourani

Raji Sourani

Human rights lawyer, Palestinian advocate

Born
1953
Born in
Gaza, Palestine

Why Raji is here

Raji Sourani has been a steadfast defender of human rights in Palestine and the Middle East. He established the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights in Gaza City in 1995. Sourani has been recognized internationally for his work, including being named a “prisoner of conscience” by Amnesty International in 1985 and 1988.

Their story

Sourani began his human rights career by challenging Israeli prison conditions and defending Palestinians in Israeli military courts. His work expanded to include human rights violations by both Israeli and Palestinian authorities, demonstrating his commitment to universal human rights standards.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Raji’s path.

  1. Born in 1953.

  2. Started his human rights career challenging Israeli prison conditions.

  3. Founded the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights in 1995.

  4. Detained by Israeli authorities, leading to his recognition by Amnesty International as a "prisoner of conscience.".

  5. Expanded his work to include human rights violations by Palestinian authorities.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Founding and leading the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights.

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  2. Advocacy and legal representation for victims of human rights violations.

  3. International recognition for his commitment to human rights.

  4. Critical analysis and documentation of human rights abuses by the Israeli occupation.

  5. Promoting international law and humanitarian standards in conflict situations.

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