International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People: History And Significance of Day Marked by UN

International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is the annual observance organised by the UN, where special events and functions are held across the world on November 29. This commemoration marks the anniversary of the resolution 181 or United Nations Partition Plan for Palestine. Every year, on this day, humanitarians across the world observe a day of solidarity for the millions of Palestinians who have been suffering the wrath of war and inhumanity for decades together. United Nations offices in New York, Geneva, Vienna, Nairobi among others observe the United Nations Partition Plan for Palestine with tailored events and conferences. Palestine to Terminate All Deals if Israel Goes Ahead with West Bank's Annexation, Says President Mahmoud Abbas.

United Nations Partition Plan for Palestine is an important day to remember and remind ourselves of the issues of the Palestinian people that are still prevalent, despite decades of peace talks and diplomatic policy suggestions being put in place. There are various aspects of this observance that make it a crucial annual commemoration, ranging from the significance of the date to the meaning behind the actual event.

When is International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People Observed?

In the 1977 UN General Assembly, Resolution 32/40 B of 2 December 1977, members of the UN announced the annual observance of November 29th as International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. The first-ever International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People was, therefore, held on November 29, 1978. Thousands of Palestinians Protest US Move on Israeli Settlements.

Why is International Day of Solidarity With the Palestinian People Observed?

The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People observance marks the anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 181. This resolution recommended the creation of independent Arab and Jewish States and a Special International Regime for the city of Jerusalem. The struggles, suffering and apathy of Palestinian people have been well known for decades now. And this day shows the millions who are still oppressed that there are people who are standing with them and working towards providing a better life to these people.

How is it Marked?

In addition to the annual conferences and events that are held across the United Nations offices in different parts of the world, Division for Palestinian Rights of the United Nations Secretaria also organises special activities for the day.

The geographical, historical and humanitarian issues that Palestinians have been facing have been evident for the longest of time. From the lack of representation in certain maps to the actual war and terrorism that they are faced with on a daily basis, the struggles of Palestinian people are real. Observing International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People educates us about the issues battled by these people and allows us to raise our voice in support of those who have been oppressed. A crucial step in this path was achieved in 2012 when the General Assembly voted to grant Palestine non-member observer State status at the United Nations.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 29, 2019 10:12 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).