In a meeting held in Helsinki, the European President of the League engaged in discussions with a delegation from the Finnish Parliamentarian group for Palestine, addressing the dire situation in Gaza.

Led by the esteemed Chairlady of the pro-Palestine friendship group, the Parliamentarian delegation strongly condemned the massacre in Gaza, emphasizing the need for Israel to be held accountable for decades of occupation. The delegation expressed concern over Finland's abstention in the United Nations vote for a ceasefire, which sparked widespread demonstrations throughout the country. The issue of Gaza even prompted a striking protest within the Parliament during a debate.

Advocating for an immediate ceasefire and a just peace process, the Members of Parliament (MPs) agreed with Hon. Michele Piras on the importance of establishing a more robust and extensive European network. This network would coordinate parliamentary activities and prevent any attempts to silence the Palestinian issue, as has been the case in the past until October 7th.

During the meeting, Lady Ana Kontula, a Member of the Finnish Parliament, shared her personal experience of being arrested by Israel, expelled from the country, and subsequently accused of anti-Semitism upon her return to Finland.

All attendees at the meeting firmly rejected all forms of racism and highlighted the increasing rise of hatred against Jews and Islamophobia in Europe. This realization prompted a unanimous decision to establish an organization based on strong anti-racist values.

The Finnish Parliamentarians pledged their commitment to expanding the network across the region, immediately initiating collaboration with their Swedish, Norwegian, and Icelandic colleagues.

The discussions in Helsinki shed light on the urgent need for international attention and collaboration to address the critical situation in Gaza. The Parliamentarians emphasized their determination to work together and stand against racism to ensure a just and peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.