Omar Barghouti (born 1964 in Qatar to Palestinian parents) is a Palestinian activist, philosopher, and political scientist, best known as a co-founder of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement in July 2005, which advocates for Palestinian rights through economic and cultural pressure on Israel to end its occupation, dismantle the separation wall, and uphold Palestinian rights. He grew up in Egypt, earned a master's degree from Columbia University in the United States, and later married an Arab-Israeli woman, granting him permanent residency in Israel where he resides. Barghouti's early life was shaped by displacement and the Palestinian struggle, influencing his lifelong commitment to Palestinian rights and advocacy against Israeli policies. He also served as a founding committee member of the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI). The BDS movement, inspired by the South African anti-apartheid struggle, calls for nonviolent pressure on Israel. Barghouti has been a vocal human rights defender, authoring writings and speaking internationally on these issues. He has faced criticism and accusations of hypocrisy from opponents due to his residency in Israel while advocating boycotts, as well as allegations of promoting anti-Semitism by critics (though denied by Barghouti and supporters). In recognition of his nonviolent activism, Barghouti received the Gandhi Peace Award in 2017, shared with the BDS movement. Despite controversies, he continues to lead efforts in the global Palestinian solidarity movement, emphasizing ethical and peaceful resistance.