The author is a writer focused on reconciliation and understanding, and the author of ‘The Jurisprudence of Extremism’
In a recent solidarity event for Gaza, I heard the chant ‘Down with nationalism,’ which left me puzzled.
It’s important to recognise that slogans, especially those used in politically charged contexts, carry a weight of meaning that can influence public perception. If these slogans are not carefully considered, they can mislead and confuse, particularly among younger generations who may not fully understand their implications.
The phrase ‘Down with nationalism’ seems to suggest a rejection of a concept deeply rooted in the history and identity of many societies, including the Arab world.
But what does nationalism really mean, and how does it relate to the Palestinian cause?
Nationalism is not a new concept. In fact, its roots are as old as human society itself.
At its core, nationalism is about a shared identity, a sense of belonging that brings people together based on common values, beliefs, and goals.
This concept has evolved over time, influenced by various historical, cultural, and political factors.
According to some scholars, nationalism, as we understand it today, only became prominent in the late 18th and early 20th centuries. This period saw the rise of nation-states in Europe, where people began to identify more strongly with their country or nation rather than with local or regional affiliations.
However, Arab thinkers like Al Hakam Darwaza and Hamid Al Jubouri offer a different perspective.
In their book Arab Nationalism, they argue that nationalism has much older roots. They believe that what we see in the modern era is not the birth of nationalism but rather the crystallisation of national feelings that had existed long before. According to them, the foundations of national identity were laid much earlier, and the events of the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries merely brought these feelings to the forefront.
Nationalism, therefore, is not just a modern phenomenon.
It is a concept deeply embedded in the history and identity of societies around the world. But how does this concept relate to the state?
There are different ways to look at the relationship between nationalism and the nation-state. Some see the state as merely a system of government, a collection of institutions that manage the affairs of a nation.
Others view the state as something more comprehensive, embodying the collective values and ideals of a society.
This distinction is important because it highlights the different ways people understand their relationship with the state and with each other.
In this context, some people have tried to distinguish between three main aspects of the state: religion, culture, and humanity. If religion dominates, the state becomes a theocracy, where religious laws and values guide the governance of society.
If culture dominates, the state becomes authoritarian, where a specific cultural or national identity is imposed on all citizens.
However, if humanity prevails while still respecting religious and cultural affiliations, the state becomes a democracy, where different identities can coexist under a common citizenship.
Nationalists argue that there is no inherent conflict between nationalism, religion, and humanity.
They believe that all these elements can coexist within a society, creating a rich and diverse national identity.
Historically, the Arab nationalist movement began in the early 20th century, aiming to establish a united Arab state. This movement was a response to various forms of domination, including Turkish hegemony, colonialism, and Zionism.
The idea of Arab nationalism had its roots in Lebanon and quickly spread to other Arab countries, including Syria, Palestine, Iraq, Egypt, Jordan, Yemen, Kuwait, and the Arabian Peninsula.
The movement was closely tied to the Palestinian cause, even before it became a formal organisation. The founders of the Arab nationalist movement were motivated by a desire to liberate Arab lands from foreign control and to achieve social justice for all Arabs.
Given this history, I find the phrase ‘Down with nationalism’ particularly confusing, especially when linked to the Palestinian cause.
Nationalism has played a significant role in shaping the Arab world’s response to colonialism and Zionism.
It provided a framework for Arab unity and resistance, particularly in the context of the Palestinian struggle.
To reject nationalism outright, as the slogan suggests, seems to dismiss the historical and cultural significance of this concept.
If the phrase ‘Down with nationalism’ were used in a different context- perhaps to critique the excesses of nationalist movements or to promote a more inclusive, global perspective - it might make more sense.
However, using it in the context of the Palestinian struggle only distorts historical facts and undermines the efforts of those who have fought for the cause over the years.
It is important to be cautious with such slogans, as they can have a misleading impact on collective memory and understanding.
In conclusion, nationalism is a complex and multifaceted concept that has played a crucial role in shaping the identity and history of many societies, including the Arab world.
While it is important to critically examine the role of nationalism in contemporary politics, we must also recognise its significance in the historical context of the Palestinian struggle.
Rather than dismissing nationalism outright, we should seek to understand its role in shaping the collective identity and aspirations of people around the world.
By doing so, we can engage in more meaningful and informed discussions about the future of our societies and the world at large.
Translated by Badr al Dhafari
(The original version of this article was published in the print edition of Oman Arabic newspaper on August 13, 2024)
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
