International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People

International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People

International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People aims to foster global support for the legitimate rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people, including their right to self-determination, sovereign statehood, and the end of Israeli occupation. Furthermore, the observance emphasizes the need for a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on United Nations resolutions and international law. The day also reminds the global community of its duty to help Palestinians achieve these objectives.

The origin of this significant day dates back to November 29, 1977, when the United Nations General Assembly first proclaimed it as an annual observance. For India, the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People holds considerable importance, as the nation has a rich history of supporting the Palestinian cause. India is among the first countries to recognize and advocate for the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and Palestine as an independent state since the early 1970s. India's solidarity with Palestine has been consistent, notably in the realm of diplomacy, where India has maintained a pro-Palestinian stance in international forums such as the United Nations.

In India, the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is often marked by various events and activities that draw attention to the plight of the Palestinian people and foster public support. These may include hosting Palestinian delegations, organizing seminars and panel discussions, cultural programs, and student exchange initiatives. It also sheds light on India's ongoing developmental support for Palestine and its commitment to a comprehensive peace process based on a two-state solution. The observance, commemorated globally, takes place on November 29 each year, aligning with the Indian observance.

Facts about this observance

• In 1947, the U.N General Assembly adopted resolution 181, also known as the Partition Resolution. This resolution aimed to establish an independent Jewish state, Palestine, and an independent Arab state, Israel. Palestine has since been recognized by 138 U.N members and has achieved non-member observer status in the U.N.
• There are over 7 million Palestinians living in exile according to the Palestine Solidarity Campaign. Many reside in refugee camps in Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan.
• India has consistently backed the two-state solution, which envisions the establishment of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. In 1988, India became one of the first countries to recognize Palestine as a sovereign state when the Palestinian National Council declared the State of Palestine.
• In recent decades, India has provided significant financial and technical assistance to Palestine. This includes a commitment of $50 million for various development projects in Palestine, including the construction of a technological park, schools, and hospitals.

In the News and Trending in India for International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People

Top things to do in India for this observance

• Explore a timeline of Palestine's history. Visit Timeline for more details.
• Encourage individuals and businesses to participate in boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) campaigns against companies or products that support the Israeli occupation. Raise awareness about ethical consumerism and its impact on Palestine.
• Partner with NGOs working for Palestinian relief efforts and organize fundraisers to generate financial support. The funds raised can be directed towards medical aid, education, or support for refugees.