The General Secretariat of the League of Arab States commemorates Arab Expatriate Day this year amid challenging global circumstances, marked by a severe test of international human and moral values since the onset of Israeli aggression on Gaza. The continued Israeli actions seek to escalate the number of Palestinian expatriates and intensify their suffering, disregarding international legitimacy and humanitarian laws. On this day, the General Secretariat underscores the resilience of Palestinian expatriates, who carry their homeland wherever they go, holding onto the keys of their ancestral homes, aspiring to return despite the prolonged exile.
The General Secretariat unequivocally rejects all forms of forced displacement imposed by Israel, the occupying power, upon the residents of Gaza, the West Bank, or East Jerusalem. Such displacement constitutes an international crime and a blatant violation of international law. It emphasises the imperative to end the plight of Palestinian refugees, safeguard their inalienable rights to self-determination, and uphold their right to return to their homes, as stipulated in international legitimacy resolutions, particularly United Nations General Assembly Resolution No. 194 of 1948. Furthermore, it rejects any attempt to redefine the Palestinian refugees and their legal status, opposes the liquidation of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), and stresses the importance of supporting UNRWA to fulfil its responsibilities towards Palestinian refugees.
The General Secretariat issues a warning against the expansion of the conflict, emphasising the potential catastrophic consequences for the region and the world. Among these dangers is the mass exodus of migrants and refugees, resulting in an irregular surge to escape aggression, preserve life, and seek refuge in safer places.
The Palestinian issue consistently receives unwavering support from Arab expatriates, highlighting their deep connection to their Arab roots and their genuine concern for the challenges faced in their home countries. Despite the physical distance, these expatriates maintain strong mental and emotional ties, forging a resilient bond between the Arab world and its diaspora communities. Prominent Arab expatriates, leveraging their expertise in diverse fields, possess the potential to play a crucial role in providing an accurate portrayal of Arab societies in host countries. Their influence can dispel misconceptions, fostering a better understanding and, in turn, contribute to positive change.
On this occasion, the General Secretariat urges Arab communities abroad to consolidate their efforts and organise through their civil society institutions, thereby strengthening their capacity to influence and accurately portray the diverse realities of the Arab region. This call underscores the importance of cohesion, unity, and pride in their origins. The General Secretariat commends the individual efforts made by Arab expatriates, especially during times of crises, to support their home countries. These efforts, including the sharing of expertise and investments, are recognised as valuable contributions to the development process and the well-being of their nations.
Her Excellency Ambassador Dr. Haifa Abu Ghazaleh, Assistant Secretary-General and head of the Social Affairs Sector, highlighted the importance of supporting the positive role of Arab expatriates. She said that the General Secretariat remains committed to collaborating with member states to strengthen communication with Arab expatriates, promoting their contributions to sustainable development in both their countries of origin and diaspora nations. This includes integrating migration into national and regional development plans, aligning with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the objectives of the Global Compact for safe, orderly, and regular migration—particularly Goal 19, which aims to create conditions for migrants and expatriates to fully contribute to sustainable development worldwide.
