UN Recognition of Palestine: Myths vs. Facts

When discussing the recognition of Palestine by the United Nations, it's important to separate facts from common misconceptions. Many people believe that Palestine has been recognized as an independent nation by the UN. However, the reality is more complex and nuanced. This article aims to clarify the truth behind the recognition of Palestine and address some common myths.

Myth 1: Palestine Has Been Recognized as an Independent Nation by the UN

One of the most common misconceptions is that Palestine has been recognized as an independent nation by the United Nations. This is not true. The UN has not officially recognized Palestine as an independent state. Instead, it has designated Palestine as a non-member observer state in the UN General Assembly.

The Reality of UN Recognition

In 1974, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) voted to invite the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) to observe sessions of the UNGA and to work with UN organizations. Resolution 3237 was passed, effectively recognizing the PLO as the representative of the Palestinian people.

In 1988, the UN further renamed the PLO in all its documents and minutes as “Palestine.” This was a formal acknowledgment of the Palestinian people’s representation within the UN.

In 2012, the UN upgraded the status of “Palestine” to that of a non-member observer state with specific privileges and rights:

“2. Decides to accord to Palestine non-member observer State status in the United Nations without prejudice to the acquired rights privileges and role of the Palestine Liberation Organization in the United Nations as the representative of the Palestinian people in accordance with the relevant resolutions and practice.” UN General Assembly Resolution 67/19

It is crucial to understand that observer state status does not equate to full membership or independent statehood. This status is more akin to a diplomatic role, reflecting the UN’s recognition of the PLO’s dual role as the representative of the Palestinian people.

Myth 2: Palestine is Treated as a State for the Purposes of UN Administration and Procedures

Another common belief is that the UN treats Palestine as a state in all of its administration and procedures. While the UN does have specific privileges and obligations towards Palestine due to its observer state status, it does not treat Palestine as a state in the same way it does with other fully recognized states.

The UN General Assembly Resolution 43/177 recognizes the PLO as “Palestine,” but it is important to note that this does not equate to full statehood or sovereign authority. The UN has, in fact, made a distinction between the concept of “Palestine” as a representative entity and “The State of Palestine,” which is a political claim often used in propaganda.

Myth 3: The PLO is Recognized as an Independent Nation

Many people assume that the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) has been recognized as an independent nation. However, this is not the case. The PLO, while recognized as the representative body of the Palestinian people, does not possess the standing of an independent nation state in the eyes of the United Nations.

What Constitutes Sovereignty?

Sovereignty is a critical concept in international law and politics. For a state to be considered sovereign, it must have the following:

A defined territory A permanent population A government The capacity to enter into relations with other states

As a British Mandate, Palestine never existed as a sovereign state. The territory of Palestine was under British administration after World War I, and the concept of a state called “Palestine” as a distinct sovereign entity did not emerge until much later.

Conclusion

The reality of the UN recognition of Palestine is far more complex than commonly perceived. While Palestine has been accorded a level of observer state status, it does not constitute full independent statehood. The UN recognition is based on the PLO’s roles and responsibilities as the representative of the Palestinian people, and this status is distinct from a sovereign state.

Understanding the nuanced differences between observer state status and full sovereign recognition is vital for accurate information about the political landscape and historical context of the Middle East.