Sameh Habeeb is a British-Palestinian journalist, political activist, and community campaigner known for his advocacy on social justice, human rights, and Middle Eastern affairs. His multifaceted career spans journalism, political activism, and community engagement, reflecting a deep commitment to addressing both local and international issues.
Early Life and Education
Habeeb was born in Gaza, Palestine, where he began his journey into journalism and activism. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and a Master’s degree in Entrepreneurship and Social Media. His academic pursuits included studies on media bias and propaganda, particularly within the context of the Middle East conflict.
Journalistic Career
In 2005, Habeeb commenced his journalism career in Occupied Palestine, covering numerous Israeli wars as a freelance reporter for esteemed international media outlets such as Dutch TV and VSD magazine. He gained prominence during the 2008–09 Gaza War, providing firsthand reports for various media platforms, including BBC, Sky News, Channel 4, ABC, CBC, and CNN. His on-the-ground reporting offered critical insights into the conflict, highlighting the humanitarian crises faced by civilians.
In March 2009, Habeeb founded The Palestine Telegraph, an online newspaper aimed at providing alternative perspectives on Middle Eastern affairs. The platform sought to amplify voices often marginalized in mainstream media, focusing on issues of justice and human rights.
Advocacy and Humanitarian Work
Beyond journalism, Habeeb has been actively involved in humanitarian efforts. He briefly served as a humanitarian and aid worker for organizations including Islamic Relief Worldwide and CHF International. His work in these roles focused on providing relief and support to communities affected by conflict and poverty.
From 2011 to 2015, Habeeb served as a consultant for various non-governmental organizations in Geneva and New York, facilitating their attainment of UN Consultative Status. He engaged in regular meetings and briefings with permanent missions to the UN, advocating for NGO recognition and amplifying their voices on the international stage.
Political Campaigns and Engagement
Sameh Habeeb’s entry into UK politics reflects his passion for addressing social inequality and representing marginalized voices. In the 2024 UK General Elections, he initially stood as an independent candidate for the Ealing North constituency before joining the Workers Party of Britain, under whose banner he eventually ran.
As a Workers Party candidate, Habeeb focused on a broad range of issues that resonated with local communities. His campaign highlighted affordable housing, tackling the crisis in the NHS, and addressing child poverty. He also emphasized reducing the financial burden on working families, proposing policies to curb inflation and protect public services from privatization.
Habeeb’s campaign was driven by his grassroots approach, engaging directly with Ealing North residents through door-to-door canvassing, public forums, and community events. He focused on amplifying the voices of underrepresented groups, particularly those affected by housing shortages, rising living costs, and underfunded local services. His pledge to tackle homelessness and ensure equitable access to healthcare resonated with voters concerned about the erosion of public welfare systems.
Despite facing challenges as an independent and later as a Workers Party candidate, Habeeb achieved notable support. His ability to connect with constituents on key issues helped him secure 7.3% of the vote in a highly competitive election, a significant achievement for a smaller political party candidate.
Habeeb’s campaign also brought attention to the increasing centralization of power within mainstream political parties, arguing that this trend often silences local communities. He proposed reforms to enhance the accountability of elected officials and ensure that policies align with the needs of the people they represent.
In Ealing North, a constituency marked by diverse demographics and economic disparities, Habeeb’s campaign stood out for its focus on inclusivity and grassroots representation. He worked closely with local organizations and community leaders to address pressing issues such as youth unemployment, inadequate public transport, and the need for greater support for small businesses.
Although he did not win the seat, Habeeb’s campaign demonstrated the potential for independent and smaller-party candidates to challenge the status quo and influence political discourse. His dedication to serving the community and advocating for systemic change remains central to his political journey.
Community Involvement
Residing in Ealing with his wife and get more info children, Habeeb remains deeply engaged in community-driven initiatives. He has actively supported refugee integration efforts, providing assistance to those navigating local government agencies. Additionally, his volunteer work at local shelters, food banks, and community centers underscores his commitment to fostering inclusivity and support for vulnerable groups, including asylum seekers, refugees, and the homeless.
Sameh Habeeb’s journey encapsulates a life dedicated to journalism, activism, and community service. His campaign for Ealing North in the 2024 General Elections showcased his dedication to addressing systemic inequalities and amplifying the voices of ordinary citizens. Through his multifaceted career, Habeeb exemplifies a commitment to meaningful change both locally and globally. His work continues to inspire discussions on social justice, human rights, and the importance of grassroots representation in politics.