14 October 2016
Fikr Shalltoot, Director of Programmes in Gaza for Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) and Physicians for Human Rights – Israel (PHRI) have been jointly awarded Second Place in the second International Medical Peace Work Awards, for their work supporting the Palestinian right to health.
Ms Shalltoot, from Maghazi Refugee Camp in Gaza, was nominated for the courage and humanity she demonstrated while leading MAP’s humanitarian aid response to Israel’s devastating 2014 attacks on Gaza. Ms Shalltoot has been a powerful voice for Palestinians in Gaza, highlighting internationally the impact of repeated conflict and nearly a decade of blockade on residents.
Human rights organisation PHRI was also nominated for the work of its staff and volunteers promoting the right to health of all disenfranchised populations in the occupied Palestinian territory and Israel. In response to the 2014 attacks on Gaza, PHRI, too, worked to document patterns of injury and attack, and hold authorities to account for potential violations of human rights in relation to the conflict.
Tony Laurance, CEO of MAP, said: “I am delighted that the work of our Gaza Director and team have been recognized by this award. They showed great courage during the 2014 attacks when MAP delivered more medical supplies than any other international aid agency. Their tireless efforts to support a population beleaguered by blockade and conflict continue to change lives in Gaza. I am also delighted to be sharing the prize with PHRI. They do brave and important work and are a valued partner”
Ran Goldstein, PHRI's Executive Director, said: “Injustice and unequal access to health is a fact of policy and not destiny. We will continue our struggle for human rights until the end of the occupation. Thank you to the German affiliate of the IPPNW and the Medical Peace Work Network for honoring our work.”
The Medical Peace Work Awards are presented on behalf of International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW) and the Medical Peace Work Network (MPW). They honour health workers who continue in the promotion of peace, the prevention of violence, and the protection of human rights, despite challenging circumstances.
First place was awarded to Dr Giorgos Vichas, a doctor from Greece, for his work overcoming structural violence and promoting health equity in the country.