ADDRESSING DESENSITISATION TOWARDS THE WAR ON GAZA

Abstract

The War on Gaza 2023/2024 has led to widespread desensitisation, particularly among those who initially empathised with the conflict. This phenomenon poses significant challenges to sustaining long-term activism, including Boycott movements. As individuals become desensitised, their emotional engagement wanes, leading to reduced participation in advocacy, lower public pressure, and diminished financial support for related causes.

This paper explores the mechanisms of desensitisation, and its impact on commitment to Gaza and Palestine-related activism, and targets to propose strategies to re-engage this affected population group. Through a literature review and analysis, the author identifies innovative storytelling, community involvement, and educational programs as critical tools for countering desensitisation. The proposed three-stages framework aims to revive interest, direct emotional engagement, and optimise inspiration, ensuring continued support for the people of Gaza. This study highlights the importance of sustained empathy and creative outreach in mitigating the effects of desensitisation and maintaining global awareness of the conditions of Gaza and the coming challenges that we started to experience in the rest of the occupied Palestinian land.