This bulletin explores the concept of “Afterism,” which critiques the deceptive notion that the occupation of Palestine can be understood in terms of a “post-conflict” reality, where ceasefires or periods of calm are mistakenly perceived as progress towards peace or resolution. Instead, these intervals often serve to normalize and obscure the ongoing occupation and systemic violence that Palestinians endure. The first article, “Afterism and the False Narrative of Calm: How Ceasefires Mask the Occupation in Palestine,” examines how ceasefires are portrayed as signs of stability, masking the persistent oppression and legitimizing the status quo. The second piece, “From Ceasefire to Surveillance: How Afterism Perpetuates the Control of Palestinian Lives,” reveals how these periods of calm are frequently accompanied by increased surveillance and control, maintaining stringent oversight over Palestinian communities.
Finally, we delve into Raja Khalidi’s “Day-Afters in Palestine: 1937-2024,” where Khalidi critiques the repeated failures of external actors to address Palestinian realities and aspirations through flawed post-conflict planning, rooted in colonial designs rather than genuine pathways to justice.
Together, these articles highlight how “Afterism” perpetuates control and obscures the ongoing injustices faced by Palestinians, stressing the need for a more honest and comprehensive approach to address the struggle.
