Middle East Monitor
On the occasion of Palestinian Prisoners’ Day, which observed annually on 17 April, the Red Ribbon Campaign has issued a call for wide public mobilisation on the weekend of 17–19 April with events in streets, public squares, and city centres across the world.
A statement from the Campaign said; “This day comes as thousands of Palestinian prisoners and hostages remain held in Israeli occupation prisons, subjected to severe violations including torture, medical neglect, and administrative detention, alongside escalating policies within an entrenched system of apartheid.”
According to the latest data from relevant human rights organisations there are:
More than 9,600 prisoners/hostages
86 women
Approximately 350 children (minors)
3,532 administrative detainees
1,251 classified under so-called “unlawful combatants”
326 martyrs among prisoners
As of now, according to the Campaign, there are 137 events across 19 countries have been documented worldwide. “This is an important and commendable effort, reflecting growing global solidarity. However, more is needed — more countries, more actions, and a stronger collective voice.”
Adnan Hmidan, Coordinator of the Red Ribbon Campaign, said:
“Symbols matter in delivering a message. Just as others have promoted their symbols and worn them everywhere, we now need to activate the red ribbon — to wear it, to make it visible, and to turn it into a recognisable sign in public spaces. It should remind the world of the blood being shed, the freedom we seek, and the urgent cause we stand for: saving the lives of thousands of prisoners enduring some of the harshest prison conditions in the world.”
