Ref: 50/2021

Date: 23 September 2021

On Thursday, 23 September 2021, the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights concluded a training course titled “Women’s rights, intervention and protection mechanisms for gender-based violence cases.” Thirty female law enforcement officers at the Gaza Strip’s rehabilitation centers received the 25-hour training course, which was held from 19 – 23 September 2021.

The training course included varied topics based on the beneficiaries’ needs that aim to enhance their understanding of general human rights principles, and those on women’s rights in particular. The course also focused on gender-based violence (GBV), its forms, causes and resolution; intervention and legal protection mechanisms available for GBV victims, and the Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners at prisons and rehabilitation centers, in accordance with human rights standards for inmate, and best practice processes for addressing inmates’ complaints.

In conclusion of the course, PCHR Head of Training, Abdulhalim Abu Samra, pointed out that this training falls within PCHR’s work with law enforcement offices, provide them with information on human rights that is relevant to their work, and to raise their awareness on their role in protecting human and women’s rights. PCHR intervention also intends to help security services and law enforcement officers carry out their duties effectively by adhering to international human rights standards. He added that this training aims to encourage them and increase their skills in drafting necessary policies that incorporate the information provided into their daily work.

For her part, Major Safaa Ismail, Director of the Women’s Prison and Rehabilitation Center, thanked PCHR for the training and commended its execution. She emphasized the value of the training for her staff, particularly as they work directly with inmates; she also asserted that cooperation with PCHR is invaluable to improve the capacities of law enforcement officers on human rights principles. She concluded with remarks on the training course, praising its focus on varied aspects of working with women, which will improve their skills and reflect positively on their work.

In the end, the participants received certificates.