At its 28th session, the Universal Postal Union (UPU) Congress adopted a resolution to enhance the status of the State of Palestine within the organization, granting it broader privileges as an observer. The motion passed with support from two-thirds (107) of member states, while three countries opposed and 29 abstained.
This decision marks a significant diplomatic milestone, expanding Palestine’s participation across UPU bodies. Key provisions include the formal display of the Palestinian flag at UPU headquarters for the first time, seating Palestine among member states in alphabetical order, and allowing its delegation to submit procedural proposals.
Palestine will also be permitted to co-sponsor amendments, provide justifications, vote on behalf of regional blocs, and propose new agenda items.
The Palestinian delegation was led by Huda Al-Wahidi, Deputy Minister of Telecommunications and Digital Economy, and included advisor Riyad Awaja, Director General of Palestinian Post Shadi Zghib, and International Relations Officer Ahmad Barghouthi. Palestinian Consul in Dubai Mohammad Al-Asaad also attended.
In her address to the Congress, Al-Wahidi emphasized the importance of strengthening Palestine’s presence in international organizations and highlighted ongoing violations by the Israeli occupation targeting Palestinian postal operations.
This diplomatic achievement followed months of coordinated efforts between the Ministry of Telecommunications, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, and the Arab Permanent Postal Committee.
Tunisia and Jordan formally submitted the proposal on Palestine’s behalf, while Palestinian postal teams mobilized international support to secure its passage.
It is worth mentioning that this month has witnessed a renewed wave of international endorsements for Palestinian statehood, reshaping the global diplomatic landscape.
During the United Nations General Assembly in New York, several Western nations—including France, Canada, Australia, Belgium, and the United Kingdom—publicly declared their intent to formally recognize the State of Palestine.
These announcements build on recognitions from the previous year by Ireland, Spain, Norway, Slovenia, Malta, Jamaica, Barbados, and Mexico. With these additions, 147 out of 193 UN member states now officially recognize Palestine.
