Nakba Day
May 15, Thursday
Historical Context
The Nakba, or "catastrophe", occurred as a result of the events surrounding the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. At that time, approximately 750,000 Palestinians were forced to flee their homes due to violence, military action, and forced deportations, and their communities were destroyed or repopulated.
In 1947, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 181, which proposed dividing Palestine into two states, one Jewish and one Arab. This decision was rejected by the Arab countries. After Israel declared independence on May 14, 1948, a war broke out, forcing many Palestinians into exile. More than 400 villages were destroyed, and the remaining Palestinians faced legal and social discrimination.
How is Nakba Day celebrated?
Marches and demonstrations. In Palestine and in countries with large numbers of Palestinian refugees, mass marches, demonstrations, and rallies are organized. Participants carry keys and symbolic cards symbolizing lost homes and the hope of return.
Minutes of silence and reading of names. In some places, minutes of silence are held in memory of the victims, and the names of destroyed villages are read.
Cultural events. Nakba exhibitions, documentary film screenings and theatre performances are held in cities. Lectures and discussions on Palestinian history and the current situation are organised.
Calls for solidarity. Nakba Day is used to draw the attention of the international community to the Palestinian issue and the living conditions of refugees.
In schools and universities. Educational programmes are held to help younger generations understand the meaning of the Nakba and its consequences.