The **International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People** is observed annually on **November 29**.

International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People: Overview

The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is observed annually on November 29. This day was established by the United Nations (UN) in 1977 to raise awareness of the Palestinian people's struggle for self-determination, sovereignty, and their inalienable rights, including the right to return to their homes.

The day also serves to reflect on the unresolved issues surrounding the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and to reaffirm the international community's commitment to a peaceful and just resolution.

History of the Day

• UN Partition Plan (1947): November 29 marks the anniversary of the UN General Assembly Resolution 181, adopted in 1947, which proposed the partition of Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, with Jerusalem as an international city.

• Establishment by the UN (1977): The UN General Assembly declared November 29 as the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People through Resolution 32/40B, acknowledging the need to support Palestinian rights.

Purpose and Significance

1. Raising Awareness: Highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Palestinians, including displacement, occupation, and lack of sovereignty.

2. Encouraging Dialogue: Promotes global conversations about peace, justice, and reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians.

3. Advocacy for Human Rights: Focuses on the rights of Palestinians under international law, emphasizing the importance of self-determination and freedom.

4. Global Solidarity: Encourages countries and organizations to show solidarity with Palestinians and work toward peaceful resolutions.

Key Observances

1. UN Events:

   • Special meetings and discussions are held at the UN Headquarters in New York and other offices worldwide.

   • The Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People organizes events to promote awareness of Palestinian issues.

2. Cultural and Educational Programs:

   • Screenings of documentaries, photo exhibitions, and lectures focus on Palestinian culture, history, and struggles.

   • Public awareness campaigns highlight the impact of occupation and conflict on Palestinian lives.

3. Statements and Resolutions:

   • UN officials, member states, and leaders deliver statements reaffirming their support for a peaceful solution to the conflict.

Facts About the Palestinian Struggle

1. Displacement: Over 5 million Palestinian refugees are registered with the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), many displaced since the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.

2. Occupation: The West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and Gaza Strip remain key areas of conflict.

3. Statehood: In 2012, the UN General Assembly granted Palestine the status of a non-member observer state.

4. Humanitarian Issues: Palestinians face ongoing issues such as restricted movement, loss of land, limited access to resources, and human rights violations.

FAQs About the Day

1. Why is the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People significant?It raises global awareness about the Palestinian people's rights and highlights the need for a just and peaceful resolution to the conflict.

2. What does the UN advocate for on this day?The UN emphasizes the rights of Palestinians to self-determination, statehood, and the right of refugees to return, in accordance with international law.

3. What is Resolution 181?Adopted in 1947, Resolution 181 was a UN plan to partition Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, with Jerusalem as an international city. The plan was accepted by Jewish leaders but rejected by Arab leaders.

4. How can individuals show solidarity?

   • Educate themselves about Palestinian history and the ongoing conflict.

   • Participate in events, share information, or support organizations advocating for peace and justice in the region.

Significance of November 29

This date holds historical importance due to the adoption of the Partition Plan (1947) and serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in achieving peace in the region. It is a day to reflect on international responsibility and foster solidarity with those seeking justice and human rights.

Conclusion

The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is a call to action for the global community to address the challenges faced by Palestinians and to work toward a peaceful, just, and lasting solution. It emphasizes the importance of human rights, international law, and the collective effort needed to achieve peace in one of the world's most enduring conflicts.