IFJ Delegation Visits Birzeit University and Emphasizes Support for Journalists' Rights

Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 – A delegation from the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate visited Birzeit University, where they met with the university president, Dr. Talal Shahwan.

The delegation included IFJ President Dominique Pradalié, Secretary General Anthony Belanger, Projects and Safety Coordinator for the Arab World and the Middle East Nadir Sanhadji, and Palestinian Journalists Syndicate President Nasser Abu Bakr. The meeting was also attended by the University's Vice President for Community Affairs, Director of the Media Development Center Buthaina Samiri, Director of Projects at the Media Development Center Emad Al-Asfar, and Professor of International Relations Dr. Ibrahim Rabayah.

At the start of the meeting, Dr. Shahwan welcomed the delegation and provided an overview of Birzeit University, its academic programs, institutes, and centers. He highlighted the importance of media as a cornerstone of democracy and freedom of expression, emphasizing:
“Supporting the rights of journalists and enhancing their capabilities to face the challenges imposed by the occupation is an integral part of our academic vision. Birzeit University is committed to providing an educational environment that supports the development of media professionals, and we strive to equip our students with the necessary tools to face the challenges in this field.”

Pradalié expressed her gratitude for the warm reception and thanked the Media Development Center for its efforts in documenting the stories of journalists killed by the Israeli occupation in Gaza, as showcased in a recently published book by the center. She stated:
“We are here in Palestine to support our colleagues in the Gaza Strip, because many of them have been targeted, many of them have been killed by the Israeli Forces. It is very saddening for us, and we are trying to do our best to protect them.”

During the visit, Dr. Shahwan presented a plaque of appreciation to Dominique Pradalié in recognition of her significant contributions to supporting journalists' rights and defending media freedom worldwide.

The delegation also met with the university’s Media Development Center to discuss ways to enhance academic and professional cooperation in the field of media. Additionally, Pradalié engaged with students, where she reflected on the challenges faced by journalists in conflict zones and emphasized the importance of developing their skills to navigate difficult circumstances effectively.