DOI
10.35552/0247.38.11.2291
Abstract
Objective: This paper seeks to understand the meaning of the Palestinian Youth Movement (PYM) apart from its symbolism of political change, the democratization process and citizenship beyond the prism of occupation. Emphasizing the post-2007 eras of split political and geographical topographies in the Palestinian territories, this study may be expected to analyze, among others, the following research questions: To what extent did and/or does the student youth movement develop democratic agendas or/and reconciliation within and among Palestine's factions? Methodology: The research design used was largely exploratory, in which two major techniques of data collection were utilized: semi-structured interviews and post-analysis of social media content. The present research has made it possible to decompose the factors instrumental in raising the youth participation in the movement, their political change strategies, and visions of the Palestinian cause. Main Results: The paper has evidenced that youths' movement is indispensable in the manifestation of democracy, equality, and political change in Palestinian territory. This paper explores the obedience that the Palestinian generation has maintained to non-violent struggle in the form of demonstration, strike, and civil disobedience. It also focuses on the role of youths in the shaping of democratic practices and their role in proffering political reconciliation in the region. Conclusions: These findings highlight the role and engagement of Palestinian youth in political change and processes of democratization; it shows the role of students and the youth movements for democracy, reconciliation, and non-violent struggle for change more than just liberation from occupation. It further reiterates the assertion that Palestinian youth continue holding the mission for change, justice, and liberation. Recommendations: Therefore, it is recommended that the backing of the youth must be increased, the horizontal cooperation and establishment of the youth organizations promoted, as well as the inclusions of democratic and non-violent resistance education in the educational establishments for increasing the efficacy of the PYM.
Recommended Citation
Mokadi, Tarik and Yousef, Ayman T.
(2024)
"Beyond the Occupation: Palestinian Youth and the Struggle for Political Change,"
An-Najah University Journal for Research - B (Humanities): Vol. 38:
Iss.
11, Article 5.
DOI: 10.35552/0247.38.11.2291
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.aaru.edu.jo/anujr_b/vol38/iss11/5