Western Cape – Since Israel initiated its campaign of ethnic cleansing, brutal assaults, and the displacement of Palestinians several decades ago, there has been consistent opposition from some governments, many humanitarian organisations, and civil societies.
Recently, the heinous crimes and atrocities committed against the Palestinian people have incited widespread outrage, leading to hundreds of thousands participating in demonstrations worldwide. Even in countries like France and Germany, where such marches are deemed unlawful.
What is particularly noteworthy about these protests is the broad spectrum of support for the Palestinian cause, with individuals from diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures uniting to express their solidarity.
Their unwavering dedication has undeniably played a crucial role in raising awareness and advocating for the rights of the Palestinian people in Gaza, East Jerusalem and the Westbank.
While the diversity among Palestinian supporters drives change, Marten Jansen, an executive member of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC), anticipates more action to match the discourse.
In the face of the ongoing violence, terrorisation, and humiliation faced by Palestinians, he contends that it is now imperative for Palestinian solidarity organisations, with the assistance of civil society, to take a leading role in pressuring their governments to promptly address Israel’s war crimes and violations of international law.
“The BDS movement has to step up, expand and intensify the pressure on their governments from below. Because for me, that is the primary creator of change.”
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Pro-Palestinian Demonstrations Across South Africa
Most South African people and various political parties have consistently stood in solidarity with the Palestinians. This support is driven by our shared historical experiences of racism, colonialism, and apartheid.
Despite this collective history of oppression and racial discrimination, some individuals and opposition parties openly advocate for and support Israel, often overlooking the compelling and appalling evidence of Israel’s crimes.
However, since October 7, there has been a groundswell of marches and protests, demonstrating the South African people’s growing discontent and demand to end the merciless and inhumane treatment and killing of Palestinians, specifically their children.
Over the weekend, the African National Congress (ANC) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) took to the streets, staging protests outside the Israeli embassy in Tshwane.
While they have expressed criticism and reiterated their support for a ceasefire and a lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Jansen believes that the South African government’s efforts fall short of what is required.
He suggests that civil society and Palestinian solidarity organisations must exert more significant pressure on the government to take decisive action.
“Whether [these marches] have an impact on those in government, yes, but very limited. Because we have been doing these marches for decades, and it hasn’t shifted our government one bit.”
Among Jansen’s expectations, he calls for the government to translate their words into action by endorsing boycotts and sanctions against Israel. Additionally, he urges the government to assume a leadership role in the international arena, leveraging its influence within institutions like the African Union to further the cause of justice in the Israel-Palestine conflict.
