Egypt, Arab Delegations Walk Out During Israeli Speech at Geneva Labour Conference

The Egyptian delegation and several Arab delegations staged a coordinated walkout during the 114th session of the International Labour Conference in Geneva, leaving the main hall as soon as the Israeli representative began addressing the conference.

Ahmed El-Debeiky, Head of Egypt’s Health Sciences Syndicate and a member of the Egyptian Trade Union Federation delegation attending the conference, said the move was intended as a protest against Israeli actions toward Palestinian workers and the Palestinian people.

According to El-Debeiky, the walkout reflected a unified Arab position within international forums and was designed to send a clear message of solidarity with Palestinian rights.

The protest follows a series of actions by Arab delegations during the current conference session. El-Debeiky noted that delegates from Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Egypt had already staged a coordinated protest during a previous plenary session when the Israeli representative took the floor.

During that demonstration, delegates reportedly engaged in rhythmic desk-tapping throughout the speech in an effort to disrupt the address and express opposition to its content. The action received support from several international delegations attending the conference.

The latest protest comes shortly after what Arab delegates described as a diplomatic success for Palestine within the International Labour Organization. Delegates recently approved a measure granting Palestine expanded procedural rights within the organization, with 394 votes in favor and 17 against.

El-Debeiky said the walkout underscored continued Arab support for the Palestinian cause and opposition to what participants described as attempts to marginalize Palestinian rights in international institutions.

He added that Arab labor and trade union organizations remain committed to coordinating their positions in international forums and supporting decisions adopted by the International Labour Organization concerning Palestinian workers and occupied Arab territories.

The International Labour Conference, held annually in Geneva, brings together government representatives, employers, and workers’ organizations from around the world to discuss labor standards, employment policies, and workers’ rights.