International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People

The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People traces its roots to the United Nations General Assembly's adoption of Resolution 181 (II) on November 29, 1947, which called for the partition of Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states. This date was chosen by the UN in 1977 (Resolution 32/40 B) to serve as a focal point for global solidarity.

The Foundational Catalyst

The catalyst for establishing this observance was the ongoing displacement and statelessness faced by Palestinians following the 1948 Arab-Israeli war and the Six-Day War of 1967. The UN, as the primary international body involved in the question of Palestine, sought to keep the issue on the global agenda.

• 1974: The UN General Assembly invites the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) to participate in its sessions.
• 1975: The Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People is established.
• 1977: Resolution 32/40 B designates November 29 as the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.

The Legislative/Official Adoption

The resolution called for the observance to be marked annually with activities that promote solidarity and raise awareness. The date was intentionally chosen to coincide with the anniversary of Resolution 181, emphasizing the unfulfilled promise of Palestinian statehood.

Over the decades, the day has evolved from a largely diplomatic event at UN headquarters to a global grassroots movement. Civil society organizations, universities, and human rights groups use this day to organize conferences, film screenings, cultural events, and protests.

Modern Global Legacy

Today, the International Day of Solidarity is observed by UN offices worldwide, as well as by governments, NGOs, and activists. It serves as a call for action to achieve a just and lasting peace, with an emphasis on Palestinian rights, including self-determination, sovereignty, and the right of return as outlined in UN Resolution 194.

This day is not a holiday but a day of reflection, advocacy, and cultural exchange. Below are actionable ways individuals, schools, and organizations can meaningfully observe it.

For Individuals

1. Educate yourself: Read books, watch documentaries, or listen to podcasts about Palestinian history and culture. Recommended: "The Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine" by Ilan Pappé, or the film "5 Broken Cameras".
2. Amplify voices: Share Palestinian writers, artists, and journalists on social media. Use hashtags like #PalestinianSolidarityDay or #FreePalestine (but avoid any that may be flagged).
3. Attend events: Look for local rallies, vigils, or panel discussions organized by groups like Jewish Voice for Peace or US Campaign for Palestinian Rights.
4. Donate: Contribute to humanitarian organizations providing aid in Gaza and the West Bank, such as UNRWA or the Palestine Red Crescent Society.

For Schools and Universities

• Host a teach-in: Invite guest speakers (historians, activists, or via video link) to discuss the historical context and current realities.
• Cultural exhibitions: Display Palestinian art, traditional embroidery (tatreez), and maps. Screen short films or photo exhibits.
• Model UN activities: Simulate a UN session on the Palestinian question.

For Organizations and Governments

1. Issue statements: Official declarations reaffirming support for a two-state solution or condemning human rights violations.
2. Flag displays: Fly the Palestinian flag at public buildings (where legally permitted).
3. Policy advocacy: Lobby for legislative measures that align with Palestinian rights, such as the Palestinian Anti-Expulsion Bill in some parliaments.

Regional Celebration Variations

While the UN marks it on November 29, some countries observe it differently. For example, in Cuba, it is part of broader anti-imperialist campaigns. In South Africa, it is tied to the anti-apartheid legacy. In the Islamic world, it often coincides with local protests and Friday sermons.

The day has become a platform to highlight the ongoing humanitarian crisis, especially in Gaza and the West Bank. It underscores the failure of the international community to resolve one of the world's longest-running conflicts.

Humanitarian Dimensions

According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), millions of Palestinians remain refugees, facing restrictions on movement, access to water, and economic opportunities. The Day of Solidarity raises funds and awareness for these needs.

Diplomatic Ripple Effects

The observance has influenced diplomatic recognition of Palestine. As of now, 139 UN member states recognize the State of Palestine. The day is used to pressure countries to upgrade their diplomatic relations or support Palestine's bid for full UN membership.

Media and Public Opinion

Media coverage spikes on this day, often featuring op-eds and reports that shape public discourse. Social media campaigns generate millions of impressions, contributing to shifting perceptions, particularly among younger generations.

The United Nations has been intimately involved in the Palestinian question since 1947. The Day of Solidarity is part of a broader framework of UN efforts.

Key UN Bodies

• Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People: Mandated to promote Palestinian rights and organize this observance.
• UNRWA: Provides essential services to Palestinian refugees across the Middle East.
• UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process: Facilitates negotiations and reports on the ground.

Landmark UN Resolutions

1. Resolution 181 (1947): Partition Plan.
2. Resolution 194 (1948): Rights of Palestinian refugees to return or compensation.
3. Resolution 242 (1967): Land for peace, Israeli withdrawal from occupied territories.
4. Resolution 338 (1973): Ceasefire and implementation of 242.
5. Resolution 2334 (2016): Illegality of Israeli settlements.

Annual reports and special sessions on the Day of Solidarity update these resolutions' status.

The observance goes beyond politics to celebrate Palestinian culture and resilience.

Cultural Heritage

Palestinian embroidery (tatreez), cuisine (like maqluba and falafel), literature (Mahmoud Darwish, Ghassan Kanafani), and music (dabke) are highlighted in events. The day often features art exhibits and virtual tours of historic Palestine.

Women and Youth

Special emphasis is placed on the role of Palestinian women and youth in resistance and nation-building. Programs showcase female activists like Ahed Tamimi and young entrepreneurs from Gaza.

Human Rights Violations

NGOs release reports on this day documenting restrictions on freedom of movement, administrative detention, and separation wall construction. The day is a call for accountability and justice.

The International Day of Solidarity is not without critics. Some argue it is one-sided, ignoring Israeli security concerns and the complexity of the conflict.

Accusations of Bias

Critics claim the UN disproportionately focuses on Palestinian issues while ignoring other conflicts. Pro-Israel groups often denounce the observance as anti-Semitic, citing instances where the day has been used to delegitimize Israel.

Response from Supporters

Supporters assert that the day is not about antisemitism but about human rights and international law. They note that the UN has multiple days for other causes, and that Israeli actions in occupied territories violate the Fourth Geneva Convention.

Despite controversies, the day remains a key event in the international calendar for those advocating for Palestinian statehood and rights.