The cycle introduced the participants to various topics in international law and human rights that are relevant to the Palestinian context. For example, the cycle analysed the elements of the crime of apartheid, and explored the military justice system that is applied in the occupied Palestinian territory.

The cycle also tackled some of the core issues for Palestinians such as refugees, prisoners, Jerusalem, and territory. Working from publicly available government documents, the participants took part in a simulation exercise that allowed them to examine these topics from various positions. The participants were then tasked with developing their own vision on how these important questions should be addressed. While taking into account various constraints, the participants were encouraged to think outside the box and challenge conventional wisdom.

Towards the end of the cycle, the participants met with a senior Palestinian official and engaged in a lengthy discussion on the various topics studied throughout the cycle.

By Tarek Hamam

Tarek Hamam is a human rights lawyer currently based in Ramallah. Between 2011-2012 he was a lecturer at the Al Quds-Bard Honors College in Abu Dis, Jerusalem. Prior to arriving in Palestine, Tarek worked at Lawyers for Human Rights in Johannesburg and at a prominent law firm in Toronto. Tarek obtained a B.A. Honours Degree (with High Distinction) from the University of Toronto and a J.D. from Osgoode Hall Law School at York University, where he was the recipient of the John Yaremko Scholarship for academic excellence and commitment to Human Rights, Civil Liberties, and the Rule of Law. Tarek is now studying for a Masters in International Law at Oxford University on a full scholarship. In his spare time, he enjoys coaching and playing basketball.