Physicians for Human Rights–Israel

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Physicians for Human Rights–Israel (PHR-Israel) is a non-profit, non-governmental organization that was founded with the aim of promoting and protecting the right to health, dignity, and equality for all individuals, particularly those who are marginalized and vulnerable within Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories. The organization is part of a broader network of Physicians for Human Rights groups around the world, each dedicated to using the medical profession's unique knowledge and ethical commitments to address human rights violations.

History

Physicians for Human Rights–Israel was established in the late 1980s by a group of Israeli physicians who were concerned about the health and human rights conditions of Palestinians living under Israeli occupation. Since its inception, PHR-Israel has expanded its focus to include a wide range of health and human rights issues affecting various populations within Israel and the occupied territories, including migrant workers, refugees, prisoners, and minority communities.

Mission and Activities

The core mission of PHR-Israel is to ensure the right to health and medical care for all, based on principles of justice, equality, and the universality of human rights. The organization engages in a variety of activities to achieve its goals, including:

• Medical Aid: PHR-Israel organizes volunteer health professionals to provide direct medical care to populations that have difficulty accessing the Israeli healthcare system.
• Advocacy and Public Campaigns: The organization works to influence public opinion and policy regarding health and human rights issues, both within Israel and internationally.
• Research and Reporting: PHR-Israel conducts research on health-related human rights issues and publishes reports to document violations and advocate for systemic change.
• Legal Action: When necessary, PHR-Israel pursues legal avenues to challenge policies and practices that infringe on the right to health and human rights.

Impact and Challenges

PHR-Israel has been recognized for its contributions to health and human rights, receiving various awards and commendations for its work. However, the organization also faces significant challenges, including political opposition, criticism from those who view its activities as politically biased, and the inherent difficulties of operating in conflict zones.

Controversies

PHR-Israel's work, particularly its advocacy on behalf of Palestinians and other marginalized groups, has sometimes led to controversy. Critics, including some within the Israeli government and society, have accused the organization of being anti-Israel or of having a political agenda that goes beyond its humanitarian mission. PHR-Israel maintains that its work is guided by universal human rights principles and the ethical obligations of the medical profession.

See Also

• Human Rights
• Medical Ethics
• Healthcare in Israel
• Israeli–Palestinian Conflict