RAMALLAH, June 3, 2026 (WAFA) – The International Labour Conference, at its 114th session in Geneva, reaffirmed its support for Palestine and rejected attempts to revoke its status as a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO).
A majority of member states rejected the request submitted by Israel, with the support of the United States and Argentina, to rescind the resolution granting Palestine observer status with certain privileges within the organization.
The resolution was met with widespread support from participating delegations, and the conference hall erupted in applause following the announcement of the results, reflecting the extent of international support for Palestinian rights and Palestine's standing within the ILO.
According to the voting results, the legal quorum stood at 296 votes, while 206 votes were required for a majority. Palestine received 394 votes in favor, with 17 votes against and 42 abstentions.
This achievement is a further affirmation of the status enjoyed by the State of Palestine within the international organization, despite the pressure and attempts exerted by the occupying authorities and their allies to influence the course of the debate and the vote.
The Permanent Representative of Palestine to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Ibrahim Khraishi, played a prominent role in following up on this issue and mobilizing international support for the Palestinian position through a series of meetings and diplomatic consultations that contributed to strengthening support for Palestine.
The Secretary-General of the General Federation of Palestinian Trade Unions, Shaher Saad, praised this achievement, considering it confirmation of the advanced position Palestine has attained within international institutions and the growing support for the rights of its people and workers in various international forums.
Saad commended the efforts exerted by all members of the Palestinian delegation, including representatives of workers, the government, and employers, emphasizing that teamwork and joint coordination contributed to achieving this success and strengthening the Palestinian presence within the International Labour Organization.
He also expressed his gratitude to the friendly Arab and international delegations that stood by Palestine during the various stages of discussion and voting, and contributed to securing its rights and standing within the organization despite the challenges and political pressures.
Saad stressed that this achievement reflects Palestine’s continued ability to achieve political, trade union and diplomatic successes despite the exceptional circumstances the Palestinian people are going through, emphasizing that the voice of Palestinian workers will remain present and influential in various international forums in defense of their national and labor rights, and of the values of freedom, justice and dignity.
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