Council-on-Palestinian-Affairs

2024 - 2025 Model Arab League BACKGROUND GUIDE

  • Council on Palestinian Affairs

    • Drafted by Noor Al-Baghdadi, Chair of the Council on Palestinian Affairs

    • Contributions from the National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations

Delegate Introduction

  • Chair: Noor Al-Baghdadi

    • Master’s student at Georgia State University

    • Bachelor’s in Political Science (Spring 2024)

    • Third-year participant in Model Arab League at collegiate level

    • Previous chair positions:

      • Council on Palestinian Affairs (2023)

      • Council on Political Affairs (2022)

  • Objectives of the Council on Palestinian Affairs:

    • To support and elevate the State of Palestine and its people.

    • Address over 75 years of challenges faced by Palestinians.

    • Engage in discussions about social, economic, and political issues related to Palestinian struggles.

    • Importance of upholding national values and diplomacy, even amid disagreements.

  • Encouragement to Delegates:

    • Engage in meaningful research and proactively manage difficulties.

    • Contact chair for assistance: nalbaghdadi1@student.gsu.edu

Topic 1: Cultural Heritage and Identity Preservation

Introduction

  • Recent Cultural Heritage Destruction:

    • 195 sites in Gaza destroyed since October 2023.

  • Struggles of Palestinians:

    • Intertwined with occupation and displacement, impacting self-determination.

    • Importance of cultural heritage in maintaining identity.

  • Consequences of War:

    • Threats to life and heritage, leading to an urgent need for preservation efforts.

Cultural Heritage as Identity

  • Cultural heritage includes both tangible (historical site, artifacts) and intangible (language, customs).

  • Historical Significance:

    • Cultural destruction used to justify crimes against humanity.

    • Loss of ancestral stories and cultural significance due to war.

Efforts in Preservation

  • UNESCO Involvement:

    • Collaboration for restoration projects, including five world heritage sites.

    • Projects strengthen community ties and provide educational spaces.

  • Local Initiatives:

    • Organizations such as RIWAQ and the Hebron Rehabilitation Committee advocate for cultural protections.

    • Emphasis on documenting and preserving intangible cultural practices.

Challenges and Solutions

  • Ongoing Violence:

    • Constant unrest complicates the efforts for cultural preservation.

  • Calls for Holistic Approaches:

    • Future strategies must include community input and local initiatives.

    • Importance of international support in recognizing and protecting heritage.

Topic 2: Sustainable Development Challenges

Background

  • Occupation Impact on Palestinian resources and daily life.

  • Economic Conditions:

    • Unemployment and poverty exacerbated by settlement expansions and blockades.

    • Ongoing violence has deteriorated economic opportunities, especially in Gaza.

Specific Issues in Development

  • Lack of sovereignty limits economic growth and prospects for development.

  • Dependence on external aid has created unsustainable conditions.

  • Social Challenges:

    • Inadequate access to quality education and healthcare.

    • Environmental threats due to resource management issues.

Future Directions for Development

  • UNDP Goals:

    • Shift towards renewable resources and sustainability.

    • Need for regional cooperation and support for local initiatives.

Topic 3: Protection of Refugees in the West Bank

Current Situation

  • Refugee Population:

    • Approximately 871,500 Palestinian refugees experience violence and instability.

  • Living Conditions:

    • Camps are overcrowded with limited infrastructure, access to water and healthcare, and high unemployment.

Protection Challenges

  • Difficulties exacerbated by Israeli occupation and settlements.

  • Need for coordinated international efforts to provide resources and funding.

Topic 4: International Relations

Historical Context

  • Palestine's Relationship with the International Community:

    • Dependency on international aid due to conflict and governance issues.

    • Fluctuating recognition of Palestinian statehood by various nations.

Recent Developments

  • Arab League's Role:

    • Recognition of Palestinian issues as priority; however, inconsistencies in approaches.

Importance of Advocacy

  • Grassroots Movements:

    • Successes in advocacy show results in international relations and support.

    • The need for continuous engagement and resource allocation for Palestinian support.