In the context of participation in the United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) World Council meeting, Abdul Karim az-Zubeidi, President of the Association of Palestinian Local Authorities (APLA), called on local government unit (LGU) representatives and associations from 50 countries to recognize the State of Palestine, Palestinian people who have been under occupation for decades, and their human right to live in freedom and liberty on their land. Az-Zubeidi stressed that Palestine was not just a political issue. Rather, it is a human cause with relevance to peoples’ right to self-determination. Recognition and support of Palestine are a legitimate right of the Palestinian people and a decisive step towards bringing justice to all, ensuring that Palestinians are not left behind.

In addition to Az-Zubeidi, APLA Executive Director and Communications and Advocacy Officer took part in the meeting. These participated in UCLG Executive Bureau and World Council meetings thematic sessions tailored to promote dialogue and address urgent local governance issues, placing a particular focus on peace and justice.

Az-Zubeidi made clear that Israeli occupying authorities continued to place severe restrictions on Palestinians and limit LGU ability to paly their role in serving communities, negatively impacting local governance and development. “We refuse to be reduced to figures. We exist and will continue to do so,” Az-Zubeidi added. Highlighting Palestinians’ resilience and insistence to affirm their rights and maintain their presence on their land, Az-Zubeidi called LGU representatives around the world to support their Palestinian counterparts and exercise pressure to end the war of genocide against Palestinians and occupation of the Palestinian territory. This is in tandem with the UCLG principle mission of promoting inclusive, just and peaceful communities.