As part of our new #NotATarget campaign, Viva Salud is sharing podcasts featuring messages from activists and health workers who are fighting for our rights.
As direct witnesses to abuses of power and bearers of valuable testimonies relaying repression and repeated human rights violations, these activists strive to make dignity a priority. Yet wherever democratic space is threatened, they continue to be intimidated, repressed and murdered.
Activists, healthcare workers and social movements are too often targeted. That is why we are creating the podcast #NotATarget. In this series dedicated to them, Listen to their struggles, their obstacles, their strengths, and their victories. Follow with us the stories of those who, through individual struggles, create powerful movements.
Let us stand together in defence of activists and our health!
#NOTATARGET – THE HISTORY OF ACTIVISTS
11 months in an Israeli prison
In this first special episode, we share the story of Shatha Odeh, aged 60, is an iconic figure in the Palestinian resistance against Israel. Former director of our partner organisation Health Work Committees (HWC) – which works to provide health services to Palestinians in remote areas of the West Bank – she was captured at her home and imprisoned for 11 months by the Israeli authorities. The military prosecutor accused her, among other things, of “to have held a position in an illegal association”. Released in June 2022, discover her testimony.
Recorded in collaboration with People's Dispatch, it depicts a world of cruel repression against workers and health activists, but also bears witness to formidable spirits of resistance.
Being a health activist in the Philippines
In the Philippines, Christina Palabay and Katerine Berza, activists for healthcare workers' rights, report on the pressures faced by healthcare movements. Criminalised for their work, they are the target of intimidation and imprisonment, and some of their friends and colleagues have already been murdered. Here are their stories.
Activism for freedom in Palestine
A prominent figure in the Palestinian women's movement, Islah Jad is the chairperson of the board of directors of the BISAN Centre for Research and Development, and Professor Bisan supports the Palestinian people's struggle to advance their socio-economic rights in the context of national liberation.
Marc Botenga is a Member of the European Parliament and closely follows the European Union's relations with Palestine. In the past, he has been a very active member of Viva Salud, where he remains a member of the board of directors.
Together, they discuss Israeli repression against Palestine and the EU's role in perpetuating the conflict.
#StandWithThe6
In October 2021, Israel unjustly placed six Palestinian social organisations, including our partner Bisan, on a list of terrorist organisations. Global criticism ensued and a solidarity campaign was launched. #StandWithThe6 quickly gained momentum.
