Dr Lydia Wazir
THE pressing need to address the ongoing struggle for justice, human rights and the international community’s moral, legal and ethical responsibility in the face of oppression is undeniable. Humanity’s essence is at stake. I extend this call to action not merely as a political scientist but as a witness to the intergenerational pain of the Palestinian people, a pain rooted in the Nakba of 1948. My family, like many others, bore the scars of displacement and loss during that tragic chapter in history.
In 2000, during the Second Intifada, I had the privilege of working with a human rights organisation in the West Bank and Gaza. There, I witnessed first-hand the daily challenges faced by Palestinians—humiliation, intimidation, torture and injustice. Attempts to shed light on these struggles were often met with accusations of anti-Semitism, silencing voices seeking justice. Yet, a rising generation now educates itself on the injustices perpetrated and courageously demands accountability.
When a country consistently abuses human rights and operates above the law, it jeopardises the global order. International laws lose credibility, setting a dangerous precedent that weakens accountability. A domino effect may occur, eroding respect for international norms and creating a chaotic, lawless global environment. The absence of consequences for abuses can embolden oppressive regimes, further entrenching their disregard for rights and freedoms.
In such a scenario, the concept of a global society built on shared values and respect for human rights is jeopardised. Cooperation among nations becomes strained, trust diminishes and the potential for conflict increases. The international community must strive to uphold and reinforce the principles of human rights and international law to prevent the erosion of the foundations maintaining a just and harmonious world order.
It’s disheartening to acknowledge the injustices and power imbalances persisting globally. A world where the strongest dictate the definitions of human rights and democracy raises valid concerns about fairness, equality and the well-being of all individuals.
Living in a world shaped by such dynamics undermines justice, cooperation and mutual respect essential for a harmonious global community. It challenges the very notion of a society built on shared values and common humanity. Reflecting on whether this is the world we want to live in prompts the need for concerted efforts to reshape global systems, promote inclusivity and advocate for a world where the rights and dignity of every individual are upheld, regardless of power dynamics.
The New World Order
The New World Order must be built on principles of equity, justice and collaboration. It should prioritise the protection and promotion of human rights, ensuring the dignity and well-being of every individual are central to global governance. This order should transcend power imbalances, fostering inclusivity and encouraging nations to work together for the betterment of all. The foundation of the New World Order must be a shared commitment to creating a harmonious, compassionate and fair global community that values the richness of diversity and recognises the inherent worth of every person.
Imagine if the atrocities taking place now were the catalyst for such a New World Order instead of the terrifying opposite. In an order where human rights are ignored:
Authoritarianism prevails: Governments may become authoritarian, suppressing dissent and restricting individual liberties, a trend already underway.
Inequality flourishes: Societal disparities in wealth, opportunities and access to resources widen, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and marginalisation, already evident.
Discrimination and prejudice persist: Unchecked discrimination fosters an environment of intolerance and inequality, a reality we’re witnessing.
Violence and conflict escalate: Absence of respect for human rights leads to increased violence, unrest and conflict as grievances go unaddressed, a situation already unfolding.
Diminished global cooperation: International relations may prioritise self-interest, leading to a lack of collective action on global challenges, a phenomenon evident in rising collective protests.
Erosion of the rule of law: The rule of law weakens, with legal frameworks manipulated to serve those in power, a trend already in motion.
In essence, a world where human rights are ignored is characterised by a lack of compassion, empathy and a commitment to the principles that underpin a just and humane society. The consequences can be detrimental not only to individual lives but also to the overall stability and progress of the global community.
Recognition of human rights
The dehumanisation, humiliation, killing and degradation of Palestinians cannot be tolerated any longer. It is a moral imperative for us to recognise the humanity of every individual, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity or religion.
We must acknowledge that human rights are universal and they apply to everyone, without exception. The plight of the Palestinian people is not a political or religious issue alone; it is a matter of fundamental human rights. Genocide, de facto or otherwise, should never find refuge in the blind spots of international conscience. It is incumbent upon the global community to uphold the principles of justice, morality and ethics. We cannot turn a blind eye to the suffering of an entire population, nor can we allow the perpetuation of an occupation that undermines the very essence of human dignity.
As we call for an end to the atrocities, we must also demand accountability. International law and humanitarian principles should be applied consistently, without bias. The same standards that apply to any other nation must apply to Israel. The right to self-determination, freedom from occupation and the pursuit of a dignified life are not negotiable—they are inherent rights that belong to every human being.
Legitimacy of resistance
Moreover, it is essential to recognise the inherent right and moral obligation of a people to resist occupation and oppression. Throughout history, struggles for justice and self-determination have been marked by the resilience of those facing occupation. The Palestinian people, like any other, possess the right to resist the injustices they endure. This resistance often takes various forms, ranging from peaceful protests to acts of civil disobedience. It is a testament to the indomitable spirit of individuals and communities unwilling to surrender their dignity and rights. While advocating for a just and lasting peace, it is crucial to acknowledge the legitimacy of the Palestinian people’s right to resist occupation—a right rooted in the universal principles of human dignity and freedom. Recognising this fundamental right is a crucial step towards understanding the complexities of the conflict and working towards a solution that respects the aspirations and agency of all those involved.
Bi-national state model
The bi-national state model acknowledges the diverse identities within the region and seeks to establish a system that fosters inclusivity and cooperation. By ensuring equal rights, opportunities and representation for both Israelis and Palestinians, it aims to transcend traditional national boundaries and promote a more integrated and harmonious society.
However, the success of any proposed solution depends on the willingness of all parties involved to engage in open dialogue, compromise and a shared commitment to coexistence and to heal the traumas of the past. It is crucial to address concerns related to security, historical narratives and cultural identities in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals.
The international community must act now and rise above political alliances and economic interests to champion the values that define us as a global society. Let us work together to ensure that human rights laws apply universally and that no community is left to endure the pain and suffering that has befallen the Palestinian people for far too long. The time to act is now. Let’s pave the way for a just global society bound by our shared humanity and the promise of lasting peace in a liberated Palestine.
(Dr Lydia Wazir is a seasoned Leadership Expert based in Vienna, Austria.)