UN Special Rapporteur Urged to Take Action Against Israeli Surveillance Equipment Manufacturers

A recent report by Al-Haq, a Palestinian human rights organization, has called on the UN Special Rapporteur on Business and Human Rights to take action against Israeli manufacturers of surveillance equipment, their connections to government authorities, and ties to human rights abuses in the occupied Palestinian territory (OPT).

Ongoing Colonization and Annexation

The report highlights the ongoing colonization and annexation of Jerusalem by corporate entities present in the OPT, which have aided and abetted human rights violations. Palestinian victims are left with no recourse before the Israeli courts, who shield both corporate entities and individuals from criminal liability.

Urgent Action Required

Al-Haq is urging the Special Rapporteur to:

• Pay particular attention to the obligations of UN Member States and High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Conventions to ensure the protection of the occupied Palestinian population.
• Publish the UN Database on Business Enterprises with Activities in and Relationships with Israeli Settlements in the OPT.

Call to Action

In addition, Al-Haq is urging businesses to:

• Ensure their respect for human rights
• Conduct enhanced due diligence before operating in conflict-affected areas

The organization is also calling on all states to:

• Stop importing weapons and surveillance equipment from Israel

Long-Standing Concerns

This issue has been a long-standing concern for human rights organizations, with numerous statements issued by UN bodies and experts documenting human rights abuses by corporate entities present in the OPT. The report concludes that corporations’ presence and ties to the OPT have become a selling point for weapons and surveillance manufacturers.

Seeking Accountability

The Special Rapporteur’s attention is needed to address these violations and ensure accountability for human rights abuses committed by Israeli companies and government authorities.