I am proud to be writing today’s blog on such an important day, which will see trade unions across the UK unite for a powerful workplace day of action, calling for an immediate ceasefire to end the devastating war in Gaza and Lebanon. This effort is strongly backed by UNISON, which has long championed peace and justice in the region.
For years, UNISON has placed the situation in Palestine and Israel at the forefront of its international priorities. Through extensive campaigns and solidarity efforts, the union has worked hand-in-hand with trade unions, labour organisations, and human rights groups in the region, supporting vital initiatives to empower Palestinian workers. In our own region, we’ve participated in rallies and fundraising initiatives for Medical Aid for Palestinians, together with practical solidarity support for Yarmouk Palestinian Refugee Camp in Damascus, Syria. Which, at that time due to its size, was the capital of the Palestinian diaspora and once hosted approximately 250,000 Palestinian refugees.
We all know that the last year has been incredibly difficult for the people of Palestine, Israel, and Lebanon. In Gaza alone, more than 43,000 lives have been lost, with nearly the entire population displaced—many repeatedly. Homes, infrastructure, and essential public services have been obliterated, while access to food and clean water remains dire, especially in northern Gaza.
As a public sector union, UNISON is extremely concerned at the collapse of vital public services – particularly healthcare. Attacks on hospitals, limited humanitarian access, and blockades on vital medical supplies have significantly hindered the capacity of Gaza’s health care facilities to provide essential treatment to those in need.
UNISON, rightly, stands firmly with Palestinian trade unions in demanding an immediate ceasefire, unrestricted access to humanitarian aid, and a suspension of the arms trade with Israel. We also echo calls for the safe release of hostages held in Gaza, the freedom of Palestinian political prisoners, recognition of the State of Palestine, and an end to trade with illegal settlements in the West Bank.
UNISON, rightly, stands firmly with Palestinian trade unions in demanding an immediate ceasefire.
In addition, as someone who is a strong campaigner for anti-racism and passionate about UNISON’s work with Show Racism the Red Card, I am dismayed to see a huge increase in antisemitism and Islamophobia in the UK since 7 October 2023. We all have a responsibility to tackle this unprecedented increase.
We cannot lose hope in peace. Our trade union movement believes another world is possible and we must channel our efforts into practical solidarity. Today’s action is part of this.
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