Arab Center for Social Media Development Wins Prestigious EFF Award

The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) announced on Tuesday that it has awarded the Arab Center for Social Media Development (also known as "7amleh") one of its 2026 awards. The recognition celebrates 7amleh's work in defending digital rights, promoting safe and equitable access to the digital sphere, and contributing to the protection of free expression and fundamental rights online.

7amleh expressed pride in receiving the award alongside other honorees: Access Now, DeFlock, and New Media Rights. The EFF Awards, established over 30 years ago, are considered among the most significant in the field of digital rights and freedoms. They honor individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to defending freedom and innovation on the internet across various domains, including journalism, arts, digital access, legislation, technology development, and law.

The EFF, a prominent non-profit organization founded in 1990, is dedicated to safeguarding civil liberties in the digital realm. Its work involves strategic litigation, policy analysis, advocacy, community organizing, and the development of technological tools to protect user privacy, free expression, and innovation.

Nadim Nashif, Executive Director of 7amleh, stated, "We welcome this recognition, which reflects the importance of the work 7amleh has been doing for over a decade in defending and promoting Palestinian digital rights." He added that the award comes at a time of increasing challenges to free expression, access to information, and the ability to participate safely and freely in the digital space. Nashif views the award as an acknowledgment of a continuous commitment to considering digital rights as an essential part of human rights.

The award underscores 7amleh's ongoing dedication to advancing Palestinian digital rights and striving for digital spaces that are safer, more equitable, and respectful of rights.