By Naseerah Nanabhai
25:11:2021

The 29^th of November is known as the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. This annual observance began in 1977 when the United Nation’s general assembly called for the adoption of the resolution on the partition of Palestine. The day highlights that the Palestinian people have not yet attained certain inalienable rights, including national independence and sovereignty.

Israel had wholly occupied Palestine since 1967 when a six-day war took place, and Israel defeated Egypt, Syria, and Jordan. More than 8 million Palestinian people live in this occupied territory, comprising East Jerusalem, neighbouring Arab states, and refugee camps. More commonly known as the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and the Golan Heights are regarded as the most prolonged recorded occupation in modern history.

The plight of the Palestinian people remains unresolved, and this day is a call for the international community to focus on fulfilling their civil rights and independence. Notably, the right to self-determination without external interference, the right to national independence and sovereignty, and the right to return to their homes and property, from which they have been displaced.

The observance also includes liberal events; UNESCO has been commemorating this day through the development of education, culture, sciences, and freedom of expression. All of which contribute towards its aims of fostering dialogue and exchange, countering all forms of racism and hatred to build peace in the minds of all men and women and restore the foundations of living together in harmony and security.

As part of the observance of the day, the assembly requested the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and the division for Palestinian rights. This is an effort to encourage members of states to give continuous support to the people of Palestine.