Ebal Center Reports Over 26,000 Activities Supporting Gaza in Europe
The European Palestinian Information Center (EPAL) has documented an impressive 26,000 demonstrations and events across 20 European countries in support of Gaza, marking a year since the onset of the conflict initiated by the Israeli occupation army on October 7, 2023. This extensive documentation highlights the solidarity not only from the Palestinian community in Europe but also from a diverse array of Arab and Islamic communities, as well as European activists, media professionals, and academics united by humanitarian concerns.
Impact of Media and Community Engagement
Maher Hijazi, a board member of the Ebal Center, emphasized that their documentation efforts were supported by a robust network of over 300 activists and more than 310 Palestinian and Arab institutions. This collaboration enabled the live broadcasting of over 3,500 events, significantly raising awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Hijazi noted a shift in the perception of the Palestinian cause among European citizens, driven largely by media coverage of the tragedies faced by civilians, particularly children and women in Gaza, which has sparked a change in public opinion and increased pressure on political leaders.
Challenges Faced by Supporters of the Palestinian Cause
Despite this momentum, the Ebal Center faces significant challenges. Many social media platforms have reportedly blocked their content that highlights the atrocities committed by the Israeli army, which they describe as a form of censorship against Palestinian voices. Additionally, logistical hurdles such as the prevention of organizing events and interruptions in internet access during live broadcasts have hindered their efforts. The EPAL aims to continue advocating for the Palestinian cause, focusing on its humanitarian, cultural, and legal dimensions, and ensuring that the plight of the Palestinian people remains visible on the European stage.
