Palestinian Centre for the Defence of Prisoners: European recognition of a Palestinian state opens door to prosecuting those implicated in crimes against prisoners

The Palestinian Center for the Defense of Prisoners said European recognition of the State of Palestine constitutes an important legal step that enables the Palestinian state to pursue those involved in crimes of killing and the physical liquidation of prisoners, and those responsible for denying them treatment and health care.

The center affirmed that this recognition strengthens Palestine’s status as a state party to the Geneva Conventions, making it necessary to enhance the legal protection of Palestinian prisoners, who are considered to be under occupation and subject to international humanitarian law.

The center noted that the recognition gives Palestine stronger legitimacy to file formal complaints before international bodies such as the UN Human Rights Council and the International Court of Justice, and represents a key pillar in the process of holding the occupation accountable for its violations against prisoners.

The center said this step is a powerful boost for human rights organizations that defend prisoners, as it provides them with new legal tools to document abuses and demand justice and accountability after many years of impunity.