Between genuine solidarity and formal solidarity
An opinion article by Dr. Balsam al-Jadili distinguishes between superficial emotional solidarity and active solidarity based on understanding and responsibility. The author criticizes the transformation of people's suffering into material for emotional consumption, and calls for solidarity that begins with listening and leads to real support, with a special reference to Gaza.
In an opinion article published on the Palestine Online website, the author Dr. Balsam al-Jadili distinguishes between two types of solidarity: formal solidarity that remains mere fleeting feelings and words that change nothing, and genuine solidarity that begins with listening and leads to action and tangible support. The author criticizes the transformation of people's suffering, especially in Gaza, into material for emotional consumption, where people are affected for a moment and then return to their lives without responsibility. She emphasizes that genuine solidarity does not necessarily require huge capabilities, but begins with small actions such as preserving the dignity of the needy and not transmitting images of the broken without respect. The article is a philosophical and ethical reflection on the meaning of solidarity, not a news report about a specific event.