A Lasting Legacy in Exile: Raja Shehadeh’s Diaries Find Safe Harbor

Raja Shehadeh, an 75-year-old Palestinian writer and lawyer, has spent nearly six decades chronicling his people’s story. His daily diaries, spanning tens of thousands of pages and over five million words, are a testament to the enduring spirit of resistance that defines Palestine.

The decision to transfer his archive from its native soil was not taken lightly by Shehadeh. As Israel’s incursions into the occupied West Bank intensified and the war on Gaza raged on, he became increasingly concerned about the safety of his archive. This concern was justified: in 2025, Israeli police raided Mahmoud Muna’s Educational Bookshop in East Jerusalem, detaining him amidst a climate of fear that has become all too familiar for Palestinians.

Shehadeh’s archive is a treasure trove of historical significance, containing not only his own writings but also those of his late father, Aziz Shehadeh, a lawyer from Ramallah. The transfer process required the collaboration of several institutions and individuals who put aside their differences for the greater good. Matthew Teller, an English author and journalist, served as project director, while Mahmoud Muna’s team worked tirelessly to digitize the documents.

Some have questioned whether it’s right for Shehadeh to export his archive to a foreign land, especially one with a complex history of colonialism and cultural appropriation. Others see it as a pragmatic decision, ensuring the safety and preservation of a valuable historical resource.

The precarious nature of Palestinian life under occupation is revealed by this development. The constant threat of destruction, whether physical or cultural, hangs over every aspect of Palestinian existence. Shehadeh’s diaries serve as a poignant reminder that even in exile, the people of Palestine remain steadfast in their resistance.

The University of Edinburgh’s Centre for Research Collections has taken on a significant responsibility by agreeing to host Shehadeh’s archive. It is incumbent upon them to ensure its preservation and make it accessible to scholars, researchers, and the public at large. The archive’s transfer also underscores the importance of digitization in safeguarding cultural heritage, particularly in regions where conflict and instability threaten physical artifacts.

As Raja Shehadeh embarks on this new chapter in his life, one cannot help but wonder about the future of Palestinian literature and history. Will this archive serve as a beacon for Palestinians to document their experiences, even in the face of adversity? Or will it remain a relic of a bygone era, lost in the annals of time?

Forgotten: Searching for Palestine’s Hidden Places and Lost Memorials, Shehadeh’s latest co-authored work with his American wife Penny Johnson, is a testament to his ongoing commitment to preserving Palestinian history and culture. As he continues to write, his words will undoubtedly be infused with the same spirit of resistance that has defined his life’s work.

The transfer of Raja Shehadeh’s diaries to Edinburgh marks a significant moment in the complex narrative of Palestine. It is a story of resilience, determination, and the unyielding pursuit of justice. The people who have made this possible – the Palestinians who continue to resist, document their experiences, and preserve their cultural heritage against all odds – should not be forgotten.

In his own words, Raja Shehadeh has said: “Once you start keeping a journal, you can’t stop.” His diaries will continue to chronicle the story of Palestine, even as they find new custodians in Edinburgh. The legacy he leaves behind is one that will inspire generations to come – a testament to the indomitable spirit of resistance that refuses to be extinguished.