LONDON, (Palestine Foundation Information Center), The Red Ribbon Campaign calls for wide public mobilization to mark Palestinian Prisoners’ Day, observed annually on 17 April, and to activate the weekend of 17–19 April with events in streets, public squares, and city centers across the world.
This day comes as thousands of Palestinian prisoners and hostages remain held in Israeli occupation prisons, subjected to severe violations including torture, medical neglect, and administrative detention, alongside escalating policies within an entrenched system of apartheid.
According to the latest data from relevant human rights organizations as of the date of this statement:
• More than 9,600 prisoners/hostages
• 86 women
• Approximately 350 children (minors)
• 3,532 administrative detainees
• 1,251 classified under so-called “unlawful combatants”
• 326 martyrs among prisoners
As of now, 144 events across 19 countries have been documented worldwide. This is an important and commendable effort, reflecting growing global solidarity. However, more is needed, more countries, more actions, and a stronger collective voice.
Adnan Hmidan, Coordinator of the Red Ribbon Campaign, said, “Symbols matter in delivering a message. Just as others have promoted their symbols and worn them everywhere, we now need to activate the red ribbon, to wear it, to make it visible, and to turn it into a recognizable sign in public spaces. It should remind the world of the blood being shed, the freedom we seek, and the urgent cause we stand for: saving the lives of thousands of prisoners enduring some of the harshest prison conditions in the world.”
Dr Mustafa Barghouti added, “All appreciation to those standing in solidarity with Palestinian prisoners and hostages. The term ‘hostages’ accurately reflects their reality, they are forcibly held, subjected to military courts lacking basic standards of justice, and repeatedly detained without charge or trial under administrative detention. These are grave violations of international law carried out by an illegitimate occupation in full view of the world.”
The campaign extends its appreciation to all groups and organizers and encourages everyone to:
• Raise red ribbons as a symbol of solidarity
• Carry images of prisoners and hostages
• Share and amplify actions using the hashtags:
