With a growing consensus emerging in the human rights world regarding the application of 'apartheid' to describe the realities in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, this event aims to delve into the potential utility of the term for advancing Palestinian liberation and statehood.

Our distinguished speaker will draw parallels between the Palestinian and South African experiences, addressing skepticism arising from the lack of successful prosecution of South African apartheid. We will analyze the historical context, legal implications, and broader significance of using the term 'apartheid' in the Palestinian context. The talk will also question whether this term can be more than a descriptor and can actively contribute to the pursuit of justice and freedom for the Palestinian people.

Speaker

Dr. Mia Swart
Visiting Professor
School of Law
University of the Witwatersrand

Mia Swart serves as a Visiting Professor at the Wits Law School in Johannesburg, where her expertise extends to international crimes, transitional justice, and human rights. With a rich background, Mia has previously worked as a producer at the Al Jazeera Media Network and held a professorial position at the University of Johannesburg. She has contributed her insights through consultancy roles for UNDP in Palestine and Amnesty International in Southern Africa. Additionally, Mia Swart is esteemed as Editor-in-Chief of the African Yearbook of International Humanitarian Law.