Kearney participates in launch of ‘The Hague Group’ against Israel’s violations of international law
3 February 2025
Sinn Féin National Chairperson Declan Kearney MLA has travelled to the Netherlands to attend the inauguration of ‘The Hague Group’.
The Hague Group launch established a unified governmental bloc to support South Africa’s action against Israel at the International Court of Justice, and also maximise international diplomatic and legal action in support of Palestinian national and human rights.
Attending the conference Declan Kearney joined the South African Foreign Minister, Justice Minister of Namibia, and senior government representatives and diplomats from other key states which are leading solidarity with Palestine, including Belize, Bolivia, Cuba, Honduras, Malaysia, and Senegal.
Addressing the inauguration, the South Antrim MLA said:
“This is a pivotal moment for the Palestinian struggle for justice.
“Progressives and democrats have mobilised internationally like never before in support of the Palestinian people.
“We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the Republic of South Africa. It has acted with the courage of a moral super power.
“The unprecedented rulings of the ICJ and the ICC are direct products of South Africa’s actions.
“These landmark rulings from international courts demonstrate what one state (and now supported by others) can accomplish.
“However, these are beachheads, not final destinations.
“Among key lessons which we can take from the struggles for self-determination in South Africa, and Ireland, where national democracy has still to be achieved, are the importance of co-ordinated international initiatives and solidarity.
“From today, we should work to develop and strengthen ‘The Hague Group’.
“Let us resolve to make all of this work our common cause and ensure ‘The Hague Group’ has a transformational impact within our global institutions.
“And ultimately create the conditions in which all the children of Palestine can enjoy a peaceful, democratic future, in a sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.”
