Human Rights and Democracy Media Center “SHAMS”

The Human Rights and Democracy Media Center (SHAMS) is an independent Palestinian non-governmental organization founded in 2003. SHAMS works to promote human rights, democracy, rule of law, civil peace, and the protection of public freedoms in Palestine. Its activities focus on legal aid, documenting human rights violations, promoting alternative dispute resolution, and empowering youth, women, and marginalized groups. The organization engages in training, advocacy, research, and community dialogue to foster democratic values and accountability. SHAMS holds special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), which allows it to participate in international forums, submit reports to UN mechanisms, and engage with Special Rapporteurs and the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process. Through its programs, SHAMS contributes to building a democratic and rights-based Palestinian society.