Standing in solidarity: the last act of humanity

This op-ed first appeared on Humanitarian Practice Network (Odihpn.org) 

In the complexities of our global politics, where policies can be circumvented, calls for ceasefires and peace can be ignored, and international interventions fall on deaf ears, there emerged a force: the power of human solidarity. The current crisis in Gaza and Israel brings this to the forefront. When every other intervention seems to have been exhausted, perhaps the only act left, and arguably the most poignant one, is human solidarity.

To truly understand the depth of the Israel–Palestine conflict requires peeling back layers of historical context, sociopolitical grievances and decades-long territorial disputes. Over the years there have been countless attempts at achieving peace, and yet these are often riddled with breakdowns and disappointment. While ceasefires exist as a means of respite, they are mere intermissions in the continuous cycle of violence. This cycle of violence continues to kill thousands and displace millions more. Yet, amidst this violence and bleak outcome remains a beacon of hope: a resounding strength of solidarity.

Drawing a parallel to Rebecca Solnit’s insightful work on the profound power of solidarity, human solidarity is not just a passive sentiment, it is an active demonstration of unity and shared humanity. It is when crises bring people from different backgrounds, beliefs and nationalities together in support of peace and the rejection of violence. This showcases a message stronger than any political statement and affirms a stance beyond any difference in political views, nationalities, religions or beliefs. Historically, the world has witnessed the power of collective solidarity in other past humanitarian crises. We can learn from the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa to the civil rights struggles in the United States where solidarity has often tipped the scale in favour of justice, equity and peace.

Perhaps it is utopic and idealistic to think that showcasing solidarity alone can resolve the Gaza and Israel crisis. However, the act of collective solidarity has a profound psychological and moral impact on humanity. Solidarity can have the power to shift narratives, change mindsets and more importantly, inspire those in positions of power to think and act differently. These serve as a reminder that behind every policy, every decision and every act of aggression or defence, there is human life at stake. Especially in this era of borderless digital reach, collective solidarity is not geographically confined. A showcase of solidarity in one corner of the world can create waves that amplify across continents. The current social media platforms, despite their ongoing criticisms, have been an instrumental tool in mobilising a global movement of solidarity and support for causes that might otherwise remain unheard or local.

The crisis in Gaza and Israel remains complex and a solution might not be immediately on the horizon. However, when other measures fall short and hope seems to be waning, the strong collective solidarity in rejecting violence can make a difference. It is all about solidarity in choosing peace, choosing empathy and recognising our shared human experience. Showcasing solidarity might just be our last, and perhaps most significant, act of humanity in this crisis.