Is being able to make your voice heard in freedom and security really too much to ask?

Palestinians commemorate the Nakba today, 15 May. On this day in 1948, a period began when more than 700,000 Palestinians were expelled from their towns and villages. For 70 years, there has been no prospect of a homecoming for them.

Peaceful protests along the fence separating Israel and the Gaza Strip have seen carnage in recent days. Among the dozens of Palestinian dead are eight children and most were under the age of 27. These were brave young people protesting for their rights. They wanted to show the world the injustice done to them every day. Their courage was met with drones and snipers when, according to international law, these can only be used in life-threatening situations. Catapults and stones are not life-threatening for soldiers who have all modern weapons at their service. It is cowardly to shoot at children and youths with live ammunition.

As DWARS, we take to the streets ourselves and make our voices heard when we disagree with our government. We know freedom of protest and want the same for our peers in all parts of the world. Is being able to make your voice heard in freedom and safety really too much to ask?

Last week, after years of uncertainty, the Federation of Young European Greens, of which DWARS is a member, announced our resolution 'Palestine: Towards the End of Occupation, an Establishment of Peace' adopted. This was only the first step. We will continue to stand up for those who are unlawfully deprived of their human rights.

Currently, the Dutch government is a member of the UN Security Council. This is a unique opportunity for the Netherlands to speak out against the excessive violence shown by Israel in recent days. In addition, Minister Blok should summon the Israeli ambassador: no more violence against unarmed Palestinians. In the words of Noura Erakat: "We recommend freedom."