On August 13, 2013 the European Commission funded “Human Rights
and Reconciliation - Civil Society Acts Beyond Borders” project commenced its
first panel discussion on Human Rights in West Bank. The discussion, held in Ramallah, aimed to enrich
participants’ knowledge of ‘other’ perspective and encourage effective
enforcement of human rights internationally.
The event began with a presentation of the history and philosophy
of human rights, and the United Nation’s role in their promulgation. A Greek
Cypriot expert and a Turkish Cypriot expert subsequently discussed human rights
and responsibility, and human rights and conflict resolution,
respectively. Their presence
served to highlight Cypriot solidarity with Israeli-Palestinian peace building
efforts.
The
discussion on August 13th culminated with a presentation by a
Palestinian Human Rights expert.
He described the relation of personal status, freedom of the press, and
Palestinian civil society to human rights in his community. The participants and experts alike
provided distinct perspectives on the range of issues concerned with human
rights generally, and within the Israeli-Palestinian society specifically.
On August 14th, a second panel discussion took place in
Ramallah, West Bank. The Discussion revolved around human rights, the
perspectives of diverse stakeholders, and approaches to enhance communication
and dialogue.
After
a review of the previous day’s discussions, a presentation of the Arab Spring
was made. Its causes and impacts
on Palestine and human rights were elaborated. Later in the afternoon a presentation titled “Balance Between Individual and Public Freedom
Vital for Democracy” was presented, followed by discussions by the Greek
Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot experts.
The day’s events culminated with a discussion of Palestinian Basic Law
and human rights.
The events
of August 13th and 14th exemplified the importance of
human rights in the region, and in future Israeli-Palestinian relations as
well. Through expert led
discussions, and the perspectives of various stakeholders in the Israeli-Palestinian
situation, the Civil Society Acts Beyond Borders event highlighted the need for
stronger human rights enforcement and enhanced communication and dialogue
within and between societies.
