Palestine

In Palestine, safeguarding frameworks are shaped by a complex mix of national laws, humanitarian protocols, and the ongoing impact of occupation and conflict. While the Palestinian Child Law (2004) outlines protections for children, including against abuse and neglect, implementation remains inconsistent due to political instability, limited resources, and fragmented governance between the West Bank and Gaza. Safeguarding for adults—especially women, people with disabilities, and the elderly—is addressed through policies aimed at preventing domestic violence and providing social welfare, but enforcement is often hampered by weak legal infrastructure and deep-rooted social stigma. Common safeguarding concerns in Palestine include exposure to violence, displacement, family pressure, and gender-based harm. Palestinian students in the UK may come from environments where disclosure of abuse or mental health concerns is discouraged, often due to fears of damaging family reputation or community standing.

Mental health in Palestine is a significant public health issue, exacerbated by prolonged exposure to political violence, economic hardship, and displacement. Despite the increasing need, mental health remains a culturally sensitive and often stigmatized subject. Many people view psychological distress as a private matter or a test of faith, and professional help is often sought only in severe cases. Services are available through NGOs, UN agencies, and some public health providers, but access is limited, especially in Gaza and rural areas, and the number of trained professionals is very low. As a result, Palestinian students in the UK may carry with them unspoken psychological burdens and might be unfamiliar or uncomfortable with counselling and mental health support. UK university professionals can support these students by offering culturally aware, trauma-informed services that emphasize confidentiality, dignity, and trust. Normalising mental health discussions in inclusive ways, offering peer support networks, and making staff aware of the unique challenges Palestinian students may face can make a significant difference in their academic and personal wellbeing.