The President of the Association of Palestinian Local Authorities (APLA), Abdul Karim Al Zubaidi, participated in the Presidential Board meeting of the Environmental Committee of United Cities and Local Governments – Middle East and West Asia (UCLG-MEWA), hosted by the Balıkesir Municipality in Türkiye, with wide participation from local government representatives and international officials across the region.
This participation reflects the leading role of APLA as a member of the Environmental Committee’s presidency, contributing to steering regional discussions on environmental action, climate work, and strengthening urban resilience in the face of accelerating challenges.
In his remarks, Al Zubaidi presented a Palestinian perspective that places environmental justice at the core of international discourse. He emphasized that Palestinian local authorities do not only act as service providers but serve as the first line of defense for human existence in a safe and clean environment, amidst complex challenges.
Al Zubaidi highlighted the uniqueness of the Palestinian context, noting that occupation-related practices—including checkpoints, the separation wall, and land confiscations—pose not only developmental obstacles but also direct threats to ecological balance and the sustainability of natural resources, particularly water and agriculture. He pointed out that, despite these conditions, municipalities continue to develop innovative solutions that enhance environmental resilience through solar energy projects, well-digging initiatives, expanding green spaces, and implementing programs and initiatives that promote local sustainability.
He affirmed APLA’s aspiration, through its membership in the Committee’s presidency, to strengthen cooperation with UCLG-MEWA and build knowledge bridges between cities. This enables the exchange of expertise and experiences among local authorities, showcases Palestinian experiences to the world, and contributes to developing practical solutions that enhance cities’ capacities to adapt to changing conditions.