Pal-Think receives the World Movement for Democracy award

In times of violence and war, the voices calling for democracy and human rights stand out as a flicker of hope. Since its founding in 2007, Pal-Think for Strategic Studies has been an unhesitating voice in support of democracy.

Today Pal-Think — a Palestinian non-governmental institution and think tank — celebrates receiving the World Movement for Democracy award in recognition of its pivotal role in supporting democracy in Palestine and the Middle East and North Africa region.

Pal-Think devotes its efforts to strengthening democratic principles, spreading the culture of non-violence, and empowering civil society in Palestine. It works on entrenching democratic values, analysing policy, writing and publishing research and strategic studies, and delivering initiatives that aim to improve Palestinians' quality of life. This prestigious award comes in recognition of the tireless efforts of Pal-Think and its founder, Mr Omar Shaban, in the defence of freedom, prosperity, and human rights, despite the enormous challenges they face.

Alongside that, Pal-Think has given special priority to creating spaces for constructive dialogue and strengthening public debate on the important issues. Through innovative solutions, Pal-Think engages politics, the economy, and social issues through reflection and constructive discussion. At the heart of its mission, Pal-Think seeks to empower youth and prepare a new generation of peaceable young people who call in the name of justice, sustainability, and peace.

In accepting the World Movement for Democracy award, Pal-Think sends a strong message: the pursuit of democracy, justice, and human dignity is urgent and indispensable. Pal-Think also affirms the importance of resolving disputes amid protracted conflicts, and calls on all to work on spreading the values of peacebuilding, civic dialogue, evidence-based analysis, and democratic values.

It is worth noting this is not the first time Pal-Think has received international honours for its efforts in democracy, peacebuilding, and the culture of non-violence. In 2021 Pal-Think received the Atlas Network's liberty award for the Middle East and North Africa for its projects empowering youth in civil society, raising political awareness, and spreading the values of democracy and human rights; and in 2018 it received the regional liberty award for the Middle East and North Africa for its project in the field of non-violence.