Global recognition of Palestine grows as path to peace remains elusive

In 1988, during the early years of the first Intifada, Yasser Arafat, the chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), declared Palestine an independent state, with Jerusalem as its capital. 

This year, in the midst of Israel's ongoing conflict with Gaza, nine countries – Armenia, Slovenia, Ireland, Norway, Spain, the Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and Barbados – officially recognized the State of Palestine, signaling a growing trend of international support, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

On November 29, the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is observed globally. Established by the UN in 1977, the day highlights worldwide backing for Palestinian rights, including self-determination, independence, and a fair resolution to the Palestinian refugee issue.

Recognizing Palestine enhances its international status, bolsters its ability to hold Israeli authorities accountable for the occupation, and exerts pressure on Western powers to take action toward a two-state solution.

At present, the State of Palestine is recognized by at least 146 UN member states, as well as the Holy See, the governing entity of the Catholic Church and Vatican City, which holds observer status at the UN.

On November 15, 1988, during the early stages of the first Intifada, Yasser Arafat, chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization, declared Palestine an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital.

After the announcement, over 80 countries recognized Palestine as an independent state, with significant backing from the Global South, including countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Arab world.

Most of the European nations that recognized Palestine during this period were part of the former Soviet bloc.

Then, on September 13, 1993, the first direct talks between Palestinians and Israelis culminated in the signing of the Oslo Accords, which aimed to establish Palestinian self-determination through the creation of a Palestinian state alongside Israel. This goal was never realized.

By Naila Huseynova