It is with a heavy heart that Palestinian Centre for Human Rights (PCHR), represented by its Chairman of the Board of Directors, Dr. Riyadh Za’anoun; Director, Raji Sourani and all BoD Members and staff mourn the death of Michel Tubiana, a prominent French lawyer and human rights defender known for his advocacy for Palestinians’ rights. 

Michel Tubiana is President of the Human Rights League and Vice President of the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH).  Tubiana was also the founder and first president of EuroMed Rights as well as its honorary president.

Michel Tubian contributed to the drafting of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, and was the friend, comrade, and stubborn and uncompromising defender of the Palestinian people and their cause.  Michel loved Gaza and its people; he visited it on many occasions and was fascinated by the City and its people as well as Jerusalem, Nablus, Hebron, and all Palestine.  

Michel defended the Algerian Revolution and its fighters; he always stood by the side of the oppressed people.  

Michel was criticized many times in many Zionist and right wing forums in France and Europe, but he never compromised or backed down. He paid a heavy price for his positions without fright.

“Michel was a teacher, an inspiring leader and an idol to look up to.  We, Palestine, and all your friends here will always be loyal to your principles and beliefs.  We will carry on the path that you have always fought for; the path of justice, freedom, and human dignity.  May you rest in peace my friend,” Raji Sourani.