Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand
The Palestine Forum of New Zealand joins millions around the world today in marking 29 November – the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, a day designated by the United Nations to reaffirm the global community’s commitment to justice, human rights, and the long-denied right of the Palestinian people to self-determination.
This day serves as a reminder that the question of Palestine remains unresolved after decades of occupation, dispossession, and systemic violations of international law. As the International Court of Justice, human rights organisations, and global civil society continue to highlight the grave realities faced by Palestinians, the need for principled international solidarity has never been more urgent.
Aotearoa’s Role and Responsibility
As a nation that upholds Te Tiriti o Waitangi and stands for justice, equality, and Indigenous rights, Aotearoa New Zealand has a moral and legal responsibility to ensure its policies reflect these values.
This includes:
Supporting all international mechanisms aimed at ending grave breaches of humanitarian and human rights law.
Opposing complicity in war crimes, including military, intelligence, or diplomatic cooperation with states under investigation for genocide or apartheid.
Amplifying Palestinian voices and recognising the shared struggles of Indigenous peoples worldwide.
Standing with the Palestinian People
The Palestine Forum of New Zealand honours the resilience, courage, and dignity of Palestinians everywhere—those living under occupation, those under siege, those in exile, and those in the diaspora who continue to advocate for peace grounded in justice.
We acknowledge the growing public support across Aotearoa for Palestinian human rights, reflected in community actions, cultural initiatives, academic work, and grassroots organising from Kaitaia to Invercargill.
Call to Action
On this International Day of Solidarity, we call on:
The New Zealand Government to align its foreign policy with international law and its obligations under the Genocide Convention.
Communities, organisations, and unions to continue advocating for Palestinian rights through peaceful action, education, and public engagement.
Media outlets to uphold accuracy and fairness when reporting on Palestine and to include Palestinian perspectives historically excluded from mainstream coverage.
Maher Nazzal
President
Palestine Forum of New Zealand
