Problematizing Law, Rights, and Childhood in Israel/Palestine

Hedi Viterbo's book challenges the picture of law, human rights, and childhood in Israel/Palestine, exposing how Israel has used them to legitimize violence against Palestinians. He examines how the state and its critics manufacture, shape, and weaponize the categories of child and adult, providing unique insights into the relationship between law, children's rights, and state violence.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In his groundbreaking book, "Problematizing Law, Rights, and Childhood in Israel/Palestine," Hedi Viterbo takes a bold and uncompromising stance in challenging our preconceived notions about law, human rights, and childhood, both within and beyond the Israel/Palestine context. He exposes a startling truth: rather than disregarding international law and the rights of children, Israel has cleverly exploited these principles to justify and normalize its violent actions against the Palestinians. Viterbo's analysis goes beyond mere criticism, delving into the intricate web of complicity woven by the human rights community. He challenges the problematic assumptions about childhood that underpin their approach, exposes their uncritical embrace of international law, and points out the recurring tendency to emulate Israel's security discourse. Through a comprehensive examination of hundreds of previously unexamined sources, many of which are not readily accessible to the public, Viterbo offers a unique perspective on the ever-tightening relationship between law, children's rights, and state violence. This book is a testament to Viterbo's boldness, sophistication, and commitment to shedding light on the most pressing issues of our time. It provides readers with a wealth of insights into the complex dynamics that shape the lives of children and communities in conflict, challenging us to confront the moral and ethical implications of our actions. By bridging disciplinary divides and offering a multidisciplinary approach, "Problematizing Law, Rights, and Childhood in Israel/Palestine" emerges as a seminal work that demands attention from scholars, policymakers, and concerned citizens alike.

ISBN-13: 9781009011556