Palestine’s UN status upgraded

According to SFU’s Paul Meyer, the upgrading of Palestine's status at the United Nations to "non-member observer state" is largely symbolic, but carries with it a special political significance. “After a failed attempt last year to gain full UN membership status, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has played his cards more cleverly,” says Meyer, an adjunct professor in SFU International Studies. “Abbas strengthens his position and demonstrates that through his diplomacy, rather than via the rockets of Hamas, gains for the Palestinians can also be achieved.” He adds that ultimately both Israel and the Palestinians will have to get back to the negotiating table, but having a more united negotiating partner on the Palestinian side may actually serve the interests of both parties and improve prospects for an eventual agreement.

Paul Meyer, SFU International Studies, 778.782.8520, pmeyer@sfu.ca