Istanbul April 19- 21, 2024
BACKGROUND
The genocide in Gaza is but another grim chapter in the systematic oppression endured by the Palestinian people since the Nakba. Though the genocidal ideology underlying the establishment of Israel has evolved over time, its essence and the consequent crimes persist unabated. Throughout this trajectory, fundamental human rights, including the right to life, self-determination, and the right of return, have been wantonly violated, while the universal imperative of justice remains unfulfilled.
We assert that every individual, particularly those in the legal profession, ought to stand in solidarity with the oppressed and victimized, irrespective of creed, language, or ethnicity– on renewed and studied terms, with measurable goals and calculated strategies, and by way of more deliberate coordination so as to give true justice to Palestinian grievances and effect the popular Palestinian will for self-determination and liberation.
With this collective ethos driving our endeavours, the PAL Law Commission and Worldwide Lawyers Association (WOLAS) organised and sponsored meeting in Istanbul from April 19-21, bringing together legal practitioners from across the globe. Titled “Advancing The Legal Front: Legal Strategy & Coordination For Palestinian Liberation.” The meeting commenced with a clarion call to assess past endeavours, delineate future objectives, and identify stakeholders committed to this cause.
PURPOSE
Presently, there exists no mechanism for the comprehensive identification and evaluation of all legal and quasi-legal initiatives pertaining to Palestine. The legal movement, as it stands, is fragmented and lacks political coherence in its objectives. It often falls short of its purported aims and, regrettably, occasionally undermines the collective will of the Palestinian people for justice, liberation and return. Moreover, numerous legal actions are ineffectual or spurious, while sensationalized media coverage fosters the illusion of substantive progress.
Furthermore, there is a conspicuous absence of a holistic approach to the Palestinian struggle within the legal discourse. Palestinians are frequently relegated to the status of mere instruments, subjects, or objects of charity within legal circles. This disregard fails to recognize their pivotal role as catalysts for legal and political transformation, as well as the diversity of perspectives- and creativity- they offer. It is imperative to operate on the premise that legal advocacy for Palestine extends beyond litigation alone, so as to galvanize all avenues, including legal means, towards the realization of Palestinian liberation.
WORKING MEETING OUTCOMES
- Cross-Jurisdictional Expansion and Coordination;
- Freedom Flotilla Legal and Diplomatic Support;
- Protection for Palestinians/Plaintiffs;
- Investigative, Legal and Prosecutorial Delegations;
- Legal protections for the right to resist Zionist genocide and colonization;
- Prosecutorial, Evidence, and Case Coordination and Monitoring System;