International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People 2024, 29 November

The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is observed every year on 29 November. The day was established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 1977 to highlight the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and promote support for achieving peace in the region.

This occasion reminds the international community of its responsibility to uphold justice, human rights, and international law for the Palestinian people, who continue to face occupation and displacement.

Historical Background

The selection of 29 November is symbolic. On this day in 1947, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 181, also known as the Partition Plan for Palestine. This resolution recommended the creation of independent Arab and Jewish states, with Jerusalem under international administration.

The Partition Plan was never fully implemented due to subsequent conflicts, and the Palestinian struggle for statehood remains unresolved.

Significance of the Day

• Raising Awareness: The day is an opportunity to draw attention to the plight of Palestinians and the challenges they face, such as displacement, lack of statehood, and ongoing conflicts.
• Global Solidarity: Events organized worldwide highlight the importance of international support for resolving the Palestinian issue through peaceful means.
• Advocacy for Rights: The day emphasizes the right to self-determination, national independence, and sovereignty for the Palestinian people.

UN Efforts to Support Palestine

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) plays a significant role in providing humanitarian assistance to Palestinian refugees. Other UN bodies, such as the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, work toward achieving a just and lasting solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

Key initiatives include:

• Promoting dialogue and peace negotiations.
• Supporting Palestinian refugees with essential services like education, healthcare, and housing.
• Advocating adherence to international laws and UN resolutions.

Challenges Faced by Palestinians

• Human Rights Violations: Ongoing conflicts have led to numerous human rights abuses, including displacement and loss of lives.
• Economic Hardships: Blockades and restrictions have severely impacted the Palestinian economy, limiting access to resources and opportunities.
• Lack of Statehood: Despite international recognition, Palestine has not achieved full statehood due to political and territorial disputes.

How the Day is Observed

The UN organizes various events to mark the day, including:

• Special Meetings: UN bodies hold discussions on the status of Palestine and the challenges faced by its people.
• Cultural Events: Exhibitions, documentaries, and cultural programs are organized to showcase Palestinian history and heritage.
• Educational Activities: Workshops and seminars raise awareness about the Palestinian issue and the need for peaceful resolutions.

A Call for Peace

The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is not just about remembrance but also about hope. It reminds the world of the importance of dialogue, coexistence, and the pursuit of a peaceful solution to the decades-long conflict. The UN encourages all nations to support efforts aimed at achieving a two-state solution, ensuring peace and security for both Palestinians and Israelis.

Summary of the News