National Identities, International Movements, and Global Perceptions: Understanding Pro-Palestine Activism Across Europe and the Impacts of the Global Sumud Flotilla

Over the last couple of years, the consequences of the war Israel waged in Gaza prompted widespread social activism in Europe. Participants from across Europe took part in the efforts of the Global Sumud Flotilla, and the flotilla garnered support from large crowds. What sparked European communities’ strong support for the Palestinian cause? How did this support translate into direct action in the form of participation in the Global Sumud Flotilla? Why did the flotilla resonate so widely with European citizens, and how did this impact global perspectives on what was happening in Gaza? This paper will conduct an investigation into this phenomenon, using process tracing to understand how European citizens became so interested in the conflict, how this produced direct action with global connections, and how this shaped worldwide perceptions of the conflict. It highlights the relevance of national history, the role of established activists like Greta Thünberg, the importance of pan-European and international representation, the effects of direct action in garnering broader attention and support throughout society, and the influence of activism in Europe on global narratives about conflict and political dynamics.