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🇿🇦🇪🇬 South African Author and Egyptian Artist Return Goethe Medals Over Gaza Conflict

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The prestigious Goethe Medal, a symbol of honor recognized by Germany since 1975, has been returned by a South African novelist and publisher alongside an Egyptian artist. Zukiswa Wanner from South Africa and Mohamed Abla from Egypt made this bold move in protest against Germany’s perceived complicity in the conflict in Gaza.

Wanner, who was awarded the medal in 2020, and Abla, who received it in 2022, took a stand against what they view as Germany’s role in supporting the Israeli occupation of Gaza. Their decision to return the medals underscores their solidarity with the Palestinian people and their condemnation of the ongoing violence and oppression in the region.

In a heartfelt letter, Wanner expressed her deep concern after witnessing firsthand the injustices faced by Palestinians during her visits to the occupied territories. She emphasized the hypocrisy of Germany’s stance, particularly in light of its own history of guilt stemming from the Holocaust. Wanner called on the German government to acknowledge its complicity and take a stronger stance against the atrocities being committed in Gaza.

Similarly, Abla, a prominent Egyptian artist, emphasized the social responsibility that artists carry and their duty to speak out against injustice. His decision to return the Goethe Medal echoes his commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause and holding Germany accountable for its actions.

The timing of these returns coincides with mounting international pressure on countries like Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Canada for their involvement in the conflict. In early February, the Nicaraguan government initiated proceedings against these nations at the International Court of Justice, accusing them of aiding the Israeli occupation with weapons and support.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s recent remarks at the Munich Security Conference, where he expressed support for Israel while urging adherence to international law, have further fueled criticism. Many see Germany’s stance as contradictory, with Scholz himself acknowledging the need for humanitarian aid to reach Gaza while also defending Israel’s right to self-defense.

Germany’s alignment with Israel and pro-Zionist lobby groups has tarnished its reputation as a champion of human rights and international law. The decision by Wanner and Abla to return their Goethe Medals serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing suffering in Gaza and the need for global solidarity in addressing the root causes of the conflict.

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