Temporary International Presence in Hebron (TIPH): While volunteering in Hebron, Palestine it is rare to see other internationals in the city, tourists are not so common around the area and if at some point we experience the presence of another, unknown group of internationals, they are most likely people working for TIPH, the Temporary International Presence in Hebron. Many of them actually take Arabic classes at the Excellence Center and often like to visit and socialise with some of us internationals or the staff at the Center. They are an important presence in Hebron and a positive addition to our network as well as an interesting group of people to spend time with!
Founded in 1994, TIPH is a civilian observer mission comprised of international representatives from different collaborating countries who also fund it; Italy, Turkey, Switzerland, Norway and Sweden. At this point there are over 60 people living and working on the mission in Hebron, with a variety of professions, from military and police officers, to social and international humanitarian workers. The agreement was made together with the Palestinian Authority and the Israeli Government in order to help the people of Hebron feel safe, regardless of the situation on the ground. The mandate is reviewed and evaluated every year by the local authorities and renewed depending on the needs of the community.
“TIPH observes and reports on breaches of the agreements between the Palestinian Authority and Israel on Hebron, as well as on violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law. TIPH presents its findings to the five contributing countries and to the Palestinian Authority and the Government of Israel.” Click here to visit their website
In addition to the neutral observation and patrolling of the city from early in the morning to late in the evening, seven days a week TIPH supports and collaborates with local NGOs on community projects and other initiatives that contribute to the safety and wellbeing of the people of Hebron. They have close contact with shop owners, schools, organizations, private residences, etc. who they visit and interview on a regular basis. When requested the observers will also be present at events where the community requires them. They of course obey to strict confidentiality in order to build trust within the community. They are an especially strong and important presence around the old city, where demonstrations and sometimes clashes can occur, mainly on Friday’s. They take pictures and videos for later writing of reports which are to be shared with their main stakeholders.
According to their website, TIPH has a 24 hour number which can be used to report incidents. There is always an international Arabic speaking observer available at this number and we recommend volunteers at the center to use it if needed. The presence of such organization is a positive addition to the city, many volunteers feel also that knowing about them and having some relationship or contact with them contributes to making their stay in Hebron a little more comfortable.
