International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People

The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is an annual observance that aims to raise awareness and provide support for the rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people. It underscores the importance of a lasting and comprehensive peace in the Middle East, based on UN resolutions and legitimate Palestinian aspirations recognized by the international community. On this day, the UN works with various organizations worldwide to promote a greater understanding of the Palestinian issue and the need for a sustainable solution.

The observance of this day was first established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1977, primarily to mark the anniversary of the adoption of Resolution 181, which sought to divide Palestine into Arab and Jewish states. For South Africans, the struggle of the Palestinian people resonates deeply, as it mirrors the fight against apartheid South Africa's own past. This connection allows for the fostering of strong ties and sympathy between the two nations, with South Africans and their government active in advocating for Palestinian human rights and an end to Israeli occupation.

In South Africa, the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is traditionally observed through various events and activities that include public discussions, cultural performances, and educational forums. Civil society organizations, religious communities, and political groups come together to show their solidarity with the Palestinian cause and to raise awareness among the South African public. These events take place on, or around, the 29th of November each year, commemorating the day the UN Resolution 181 was passed in 1947.