BETHLEHEM, West Bank — Alrowwad Cultural and Arts Society has concluded a three-day youth summer camp focused on human rights, advocacy and media skills, drawing participants from across the occupied West Bank.
The camp, titled “Here We Remain,” brought together adolescents and young people in a program combining workshops, field visits and practical training aimed at strengthening awareness of international law and human rights, while building participants’ capacity in advocacy, documentation and media production.
Organizers said the program was designed to link theoretical learning with real-world application. Sessions on the opening day introduced participants to the Palestinian issue in the context of international law, alongside training in media advocacy and lobbying. Additional workshops addressed youth leadership and the role of international institutions, including the United Nations.
On the second day, participants developed advocacy campaigns and produced podcast content aimed at raising awareness of human rights issues through digital media. The program also included discussions on children’s rights under occupation, as well as cultural sessions highlighting Palestinian food heritage. Activities concluded with a field visit to the village of Artas, where participants examined local realities through a human rights lens.
The final day featured meetings with representatives from the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, who outlined challenges facing their protection work, as well as discussions with civil society and political figures on advocacy and community engagement. Workshops also focused on legal documentation and research methods used to monitor human rights violations.
Participants took part in additional field visits and group activities designed to encourage collaboration and exchange of experiences.
Ribal AlKurdi, executive director of Alrowwad, said the camp aimed to equip young people with practical tools to engage in advocacy and express their concerns. He said combining training with hands-on activities helps strengthen participants’ ability to defend their rights and contribute to their communities.
The organization said the camp is part of its broader human rights program, which seeks to expand youth participation in advocacy efforts and promote values of justice, dignity and civic engagement.
The camp concluded with a closing session reviewing key outcomes and emphasizing the importance of sustaining youth-led initiatives in awareness, advocacy and documentation.