Why Did Australia Abstain from the Vote on UN Status for Palestine?
Why did Australia abstain from voting for UN Observer Status for Palestine? This was my question. I found my answer below. Very pleased to see Gareth Evans lobbying below.
I understand Australia is starting to make its break from the US and Israel, I see that as a move towards peace. As I wrote in my poem in the previous blog, equality must sit at the table as the genuine peace process.
Democracy is not about anti-semetic or pro-palestine it is pro peace, sharing a place at the table to hear each other. When the Israelis and palestinians come into shared understanding and recognise that the both sides do exist they will find a holy see change. All are equal.
Violence on both sides begets violence, it will never achieve the outcome both say they are seeking. Peace is not policy or negotiation it comes from a genuine desire to live peacefully and forgive the past. I am having revelations about peace and know this to be true. The first step is to question beliefs on both sides, that is where the real courage is. Anyone can shoot a gun or explode a bomb, to explode myths that have been the seeds of division this is the beginning of the real peace within. That is where all peace starts within the hearts of people. Democracy creates a space at the table for all to be heard.
The next step for Australia is to reclaim its independence and find its own voice.
http://www.smh.com.au/opinion/political-news/australia-to-abstain-from-vote-on-un-status-for-palestine-20121127-2a4ld.html
Australia to abstain from vote on UN status for Palestine
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The decision to have Australia abstain from the vote on Palestinian membership to the UN marks a break with the US, expected to side with Israel. Photo: Jason South
Julia Gillard has compromised on her opposition to Palestinian membership in the United Nations – deciding Australia will abstain when the contentious vote is put in the General Assembly.
Ms Gillard told Labor caucus this morning she did not believe the resolution proposing Palestine be given a similar standing in the UN to the Vatican would advance peace talks with Israel.
But after strong lobbying by both Left and Right factions, Ms Gillard said Australia would not oppose the bid.
Former foreign minister Gareth Evans has also been heavily involved, briefing MPs on the issue and warning Australia would stand on the ”wrong side of history” by opposing the bid.
A planned motion by Labor backbencher Andrew Leigh calling for Australia to back Palestinian membership has now been withdrawn.
Israel has steadfastly opposed the Palestinian manoeuvre, warning it breaches promises not to make a unilateral declaration of statehood.
Ms Gillard had last year directed Australia to vote against Palestinian membership of the UN cultural body, UNESCO.
She said a yes vote would achieve nothing and set back the peace process.
But the decision to abstain will mark a break with the US, expected to side with Israel.
A majority of countries are expected to back the resolution.
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