Palestine's Presence at Web Summit 2024
The Web Summit 2024, held in Lisbon, Portugal, witnessed a notable yet symbolic presence of Palestine amidst ongoing conflict in the region. While the actual participation of Palestinian individuals was limited due to war conditions, the conference served as a platform for discussions surrounding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Founded in 2009, the Web Summit has evolved into a significant event for technologists and entrepreneurs, but this year's conference reflected a shift towards addressing global humanitarian issues alongside technological advancements.
The Al Jazeera Pavilion became a focal point for visitors expressing solidarity with Gaza. Many attendees, including international entrepreneurs and media professionals, praised Al Jazeera's coverage of the conflict. Josh, an American AI co-founder, emphasized the importance of real journalism in understanding the situation in Gaza, while Christian from the UK sought to connect with Al Jazeera to discuss support for the affected community. The pavilion attracted individuals eager to learn more about the plight of Palestinians and the challenges they face.
Support for Palestinian Entrepreneurs
Despite the absence of Palestinian entrepreneurs at the summit, a meeting was organized for East Jerusalem entrepreneurs, facilitated by the conference's chairman, Paddy Cosgrave. Rajai Nusseibeh, founder of Sigma Lab, highlighted the organization's mission to support Palestinian youth and startups in Jerusalem, which often struggles to secure funding. The Web Summit Foundation responded positively to their request for participation, covering the costs for the entrepreneurs to attend.
During the Palestinian Entrepreneurs Meeting, attendees from various backgrounds gathered to show their support. Adriana, a Portuguese businesswoman, articulated her empathy for the Palestinian cause, expressing her horror at the scenes emerging from Gaza. She actively participated in pro-Palestine demonstrations, hoping to instill awareness and compassion in her children. Adriana commended Al Jazeera for its coverage, stating that it plays a crucial role in informing the world about the realities faced by Palestinians.
The Web Summit 2024 not only focused on technology but also highlighted a growing global consciousness regarding humanitarian issues, particularly the plight of Palestinians. This year's event marked a significant intersection of technology and compassion, as attendees rallied to support those striving for a better life amid adversity.
