In November 2009, the jury of the French National Consultant Committee for Human Rights in France selected the Palestinian Non-Governmental Organizations Network (PNGO) as one of the five winners -among candidates from all over the world - for the French Republic Human Rights Award 2009.
The jury considers that PNGO network deserves this prize because of its work to defend human rights.
Bernard Kouchner, the French Foreign Minister, will hand over the Human Rights Award to PNGO in Paris on the 10th of December 2009, on the occasion of the 61st Anniversary of the Universal Declaration for Human Rights. In addition, PNGO network will receive a 15,000 Euros grant, as a contribution to execute its activities for defending freedoms and strengthening human rights.
PNGO network is a civil and democratic body which seeks to support, consolidate and strengthen the Palestinian civil society on the basis of the principles of democracy, social justice and sustainable development. It is a Palestinian NGOs umbrella organization comprising 132 member organizations working in different developmental fields in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
PNGO network was established in September 1993, after the signing of the Oslo Accords, with the objective of enhancing coordination, consultation and cooperation among the different sectors of civil society. PNGO network serves as an essential coordination mechanism for the NGO sector at the local, regional, and international levels.
PNGO network expresses today its gratitude and appreciation for being awarded this essential prize. PNGO network dedicates this award to the Palestinian people, and to the national organizations which struggle to reach the Palestinian national rights and rule of law.
PNGO network considers this award as a message of appreciation and support to the Palestinian civil society organizations' efforts. These organizations work in very hard and complicated conditions, facing the Israeli occupation, to strengthen human rights, defend freedoms, and promote the restoration of the national unity in Palestine.
PNGO network affirms that being rewarded such prize will support its efforts to strengthen and support the Palestinian civil society, raising its voice on different levels, and developing the Palestinian society.
