Arab leaders recently convened at the Organization of Arab Labor's latest board meeting to address pressing issues of Palestinian workers and refugee rights, particularly concerning the situation in Gaza. This emergency assembly took place from February 27 to 28, 2025, in Cairo, Egypt, and marked the 102nd session of the organizational body.
Under the leadership of the Egyptian Minister of Labor, Mohamed Jabr, the gathering featured participation from various Arab ministers and dignitaries, including Dr. Ali bin Saeed Al-Mari from Qatar, Dr. Einas Al-Attar from Palestine, and representatives from Jordan and Libya, among others. This assembly served as more than just another meeting; it was also a call to bolster support for Palestinian workers besieged by systemic displacement and colonial policies.
During the opening speech, Mr. Fayed Ali Al-Mutairi, the director general of the Arab Labor Organization, emphasized the urgent necessity to accelerate reconstruction initiatives for Gaza, underscoring the need for Palestinian citizens to have the chance to return to their homes and rebuild their lives. "How can one ask me to leave? How can I live without my homeland?" he pleaded, echoing sentiments of Palestinian identity and attachment to the land. His remarks set the tone for the discussions and advocacy for immediate action.
Jabr also highlighted Arab unity against forced displacement policies aimed at uprooting Palestinians from their historical lands. He criticized colonial plans targeting Palestinian workers under any pretext, urging all Arab production stakeholders to resist efforts to normalize and legitimize these colonial strategies.
Throughout this session, key agendas were deliberated, focusing on the conditions of Palestinian workers, the impact of Israeli policies on the labor market, and the collective responsibility of Arab nations to alleviate the Palestinian plight. Advocates argued for facilitating job opportunities for Palestinian workers, backing their rights, and fostering solidarity among the Arab states to build momentum for change.
Among the issues raised was the recent history of violence and displacement faced by Palestinians. The meeting's preamble was poignant, reminding members of the severe toll taken on Palestinian society since the intensified conflict began on October 7, 2023. Reports indicated fatalities surpassing 48,000, with many suffering displacement from their homes due to Israeli military actions.
Attendees voiced their dismay over the deteriorated living and working conditions within Gaza and the West Bank. They called for swift action toward empowering Palestinians economically and socially, emphasizing the reconstruction of homes as synonymous with restoring hope and normalcy to the lives affected by decades of conflict and hardship.
Dr. Al-Attar reiterated the need for safeguarding what remains of the Palestinian labor force and highlighted the urgent humanitarian need to support injured workers and families. "We are steadfastly resisting the loss of our identity and homes, as we demand the right to exist with dignity where our roots lie," she pointed out.
During the closing session, the Arab Labor Organization released a statement categorically rejecting the measures of forcible displacement affecting Palestinian workers. This was followed by strong reaffirmations to renew efforts for the establishment of Palestinian statehood, with Jerusalem as its capital.
The motivation permeated discussions as Arab leaders pledged collective support for Palestine. It became evident there is agreement across different states on the necessity for Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas to be involved, but opinions remain mixed on his effectiveness—highlighting the complicated dynamics of Palestinian leadership amid various geopolitical challenges faced by the region.
The summit concluded with heartfelt wishes to the Arab workers, highlighting solidarity and joint efforts moving forward, inviting all stakeholders to come together to resolve the plight of Palestinian workers comprehensively.
This organizational meeting was also pivotal as it marked the 60-year anniversary of the Arab Labor Organization, which was recognized as instrumental for advanced labor rights across the Arab region. Leaders emphasized the continued mission of maintaining workers' rights and addressing the challenges presented by modern economies.
Fidya Ali, executive director of the Organization of Arab Labor, noted, "We will keep advocating for Palestinian rights and work tirelessly to protect their dignity and future. Our unity today is stronger than any external forces trying to displace us from our rights. Together, we create pathways to brighter futures and fortify the dignity of our people, especially Palestinians confronting injustice on their land."