Introduction
Social movements for human rights are common in historical contexts. Many groups of people are organizing together to resist oppression and assert their right to equality collectively. One recent clear example of this is the Palestinian workers’ strike. They have demonstrated determination and resilience in dealing with the political uncertainty and economic challenges facing the region. Moreover, Palestinian actions resonate with global movements, demonstrating the role of social movements and collective action in the struggle for civil rights. Therefore, this paper analyzes workers’ strikes in Palestine from a global perspective, as depicted in documentaries.
Analysis of Palestinian Workers’ Strike
A strike by Palestinian workers characterized by its unity and unwavering commitment. The strikers call for nonviolent methods of resistance, consistent with the events in the film “A force more powerful” (ICNC, 2018a). Often, nonviolent actions have a significantly more significant positive impact on changes in society and politics. Gandhi was among the first to use this strategy in India, refusing to submit to British rule (ICNC, 2018a). After this, this practice spread to other countries, whose oppressed populations used strikes and boycotts as the primary tool for influencing politics. This phenomenon often occurs among members of the same social group, such as students or workers (ICNC, 2018b).
Workers in many countries are still the mainstay of the economy, so their strikes are forcing governments to make concessions. Palestinian workers facing economic hardship and seeking better working conditions have used peaceful protests to amplify their voices. Through strikes, demonstrations, and collective action, they demonstrate the potential of nonviolent resistance to achieve tangible change.
Their key demand is respect for human rights and equal access to public resources, including education, health care, and social protection. These Palestinian aspirations have much in common with African Americans’ opposition to discrimination and oppression (Mississippi Public Broadcasting, 2018). It involves more than just demands for equal pay and working conditions. Foremost, this strike is aimed at drawing attention to the low standard of living of Palestinians. Equality and justice must be mandatory attributes of a society where human life is the highest value. Therefore, the emergence of social movements for civil rights is a common phenomenon throughout the world.
Another distinctive characteristic of the strike in Palestine is the overall social context of what is happening. The reason for the deterioration in living standards, resulting in strikes, was the ongoing conflict in the region. Consequently, this creates a need for justice and new ways to solve the problem. The justice system is not some abstract construct but an actual embodiment of established human rights and freedoms (Free the People, 2020). Therefore, each individual is essential for addressing social problems.
Workers’ demands for their rights reveal more significant problems that need a comprehensive approach to addressing them. One option is transforming the social system (Free the People, 2020). Changing the perception of the situation opens up new opportunities for citizens and political forces to restore stability in the country.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Palestinian workers’ strike is not just a local movement that emerged as a response to ongoing injustice and social instability. This phenomenon is part of the global struggle for human rights and equality. They emphasize the importance of nonviolent action to achieve desired changes through strikes, boycotts, or comprehensive changes in the social system. Moreover, the example of Palestinian workers demonstrates the importance of continued citizen participation in solving the social and political problems of the country.
References
Free the People. (2020). How to love your enemy: A restorative justice story. YouTube. Web.
ICNC – International Center on Nonviolent Conflict. (2018a). A force more powerful – English – Part 1 (standard definition). YouTube. Web.
ICNC – International Center on Nonviolent Conflict. (2018b). A force more powerful – English – Part 2 (standard definition). YouTube. Web.
Mississippi Public Broadcasting. (2018). Full documentary – 1964: The fight for a right. YouTube. Web.