We remain the only Palestinian human rights organization specifically focused on child rights.
Defense for Children International - Palestine (DCIP) is an independent, local Palestinian child rights organization dedicated to defending and promoting the rights of children living in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip. Since 1991, we have investigated, documented, and exposed grave human rights violations against children; provided legal services to children in urgent need; held Israeli and Palestinian authorities accountable to universal human rights principles; and advocated at the international and national levels to advance access to justice and protection for children.
As a national section of Defence for Children International (DCI), an international child-rights movement and non-governmental organization established in 1979, we pledge to follow DCI’s mandate to “promote and protect children’s rights in accordance with international standards.” At the same time, DCIP is an autonomous organization that raises its own funds and develops its own programs in response to contextual needs in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
The DCI movement currently has over 35 sections around the world, and an international secretariat in Geneva. Each section is a member of the International General Assembly of DCI, which convenes every three years. Additionally, DCI holds consultative status on the United Nations Economic and Social Council, UNICEF, UNESCO, and the Council of Europe.
DCIP was first registered in 1996 by the Israeli Ministry of Interior. In 2003, DCIP registered under the Palestinian Authority jurisdiction as an independent Palestinian non-governmental organization (RA-2282-SS).
DCIP is governed by a General Assembly and a Board of Trustees—which is elected by assembly members biannually. The General Assembly convenes annually and the Board of Trustees meets quarterly. By-laws and procedures are available upon request.
