Issa Amro Awarded Right Livelihood Prize for Peaceful Resistance

In a significant recognition of peaceful activism, Palestinian activist Issa Amro has been awarded the Right Livelihood prize, often referred to as an alternative Nobel Prize. This prestigious award acknowledges individuals who have made remarkable contributions to social justice and human rights. Amro received this honor for his unwavering commitment to nonviolent resistance against Israel's illegal occupation of the West Bank.

Born in Hebron, a city marked by tension and conflict, Amro has dedicated his life to advocating for the rights of Palestinians. In Hebron, approximately 1,000 Jewish settlers live under heavy Israeli military protection, surrounded by around 200,000 Palestinians. This stark demographic reality has fueled Amro's resolve to fight against the expansion of Jewish settlements, which are widely considered illegal under international law.

At the age of 44, Amro founded the Youth Against Settlements group, which actively campaigns against the proliferation of these settlements. His activism has not come without personal cost; he has faced repeated detentions and torture at the hands of both the Palestinian Authority and Israeli forces. Reflecting on his struggles, Amro stated, "It’s a miracle that I still exist." This sentiment underscores the dangers faced by those who dare to challenge the status quo.

Amro's journey as an activist began during the Second Intifada when Palestine Polytechnic University, where he was a student, closed its doors in 2003. Demonstrating remarkable leadership, he spearheaded a six-month civil disobedience campaign that ultimately led to the university's reopening. "I graduated as an engineer and as an activist — it became part of my character," he remarked, highlighting the deep intertwining of his education and activism.

The Right Livelihood Foundation, based in Sweden, also recognized other notable figures alongside Amro. Joan Carling, a Filipino advocate for indigenous rights, and Anabela Lemos, a climate activist from Mozambique, were honored for their significant contributions to their respective causes. Additionally, the research agency Forensic Architecture received accolades for its innovative work in exposing human rights violations globally.

The foundation emphasized that the four prize winners have made a profound impact on their communities and the world stage. Their dedication to nonviolent methods in the face of oppression serves as an inspiring example for others. As the foundation stated, "Their unwavering commitment to speaking out against forces of oppression and exploitation resonates far beyond their communities."

Issa Amro's recognition with the Right Livelihood prize not only highlights his personal sacrifices and achievements but also sheds light on the broader struggle for justice faced by many in the region. His story serves as a reminder of the power of peaceful resistance and the importance of standing up for human rights, encouraging others to join the fight for a more just and equitable world.