3 days ago
Palestine's status upgraded to 'Observer State' at International Labor Org.
The International Labor Organization (ILO) has unanimously approved upgrading Palestine's status from a "national liberation movement" to a "non-member observer state," marking a significant milestone in Palestine's international recognition.
The decision was reached during the General Affairs Committee of the 113th International Labour Conference in Geneva. The final resolution is expected to be formally adopted in plenary on Thursday.
This move aligns the ILO's position with that of other UN agencies such as UNESCO and the World Health Organization, following the UN General Assembly's Resolution ES-10/23 in May 2024.
Expanded Rights for Palestine
With the upgrade, Palestine will now enjoy expanded rights within the ILO, including:
Delivering statements under all agenda items.
Submitting proposals.
Participating in all meetings with tripartite delegations
Nominating delegates to the Conference Bureau starting in 2026.
Ambassador Ibrahim Khraishi welcomed the decision, calling it a "firm and unambiguous response to the 'Israeli' Knesset's rejection of a Palestinian state." He added, "Some continue to reject fairness and persist in applying double standards, undermining the very principles of international legitimacy and justice."
International support, opposition
The resolution was strongly supported by the Arab Group, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and countries including France, China, Spain, and Switzerland. Both the Employers' and Workers' Groups backed the resolution, emphasizing its humanitarian necessity and alignment with the ILO's values.
Hungary was the only country opposing the resolution. Khraishi expressed surprise at Hungary's stance, noting that it had recognized the State of Palestine as far back as 1988.
Significance of the Decision
Khraishi emphasized that "this step is not merely symbolic," but "an integral part of the Palestinian people's legitimate national and political struggle for justice, sovereignty, and self-determination."
