Castelbottaccio Passes Motion Supporting Recognition of the State of Palestine

July 23, 2025 - Castelbottaccio, Molise
At 7:05 PM on a warm July evening, the Municipal Council of Castelbottaccio convened to discuss a motion with international implications: the recognition of the State of Palestine and the promotion of peaceful coexistence between two peoples.

The motion was proposed by the civic group Progetto Castelbottaccio and brought to the floor by Councillor Nicola Marrone. It reflects growing calls among Italian municipalities to take a public stand on global humanitarian issues—even in the absence of direct foreign policy authority.

Why This Motion Matters

The council expressed deep concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the violence affecting civilians in both Gaza and the West Bank. It noted:

• The dramatic toll on civilians, including serious violations of human rights.
• Repeated calls by the United Nations and international bodies for an immediate ceasefire.
• The importance of self-determination as a fundamental principle of international law.
• That several European and national parliaments have already supported formal recognition of the State of Palestine.

Key Actions in the Motion

The council of Castelbottaccio unanimously approved the following actions:

• Expressed its concern for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the West Bank.
• Called on the Italian government to actively work at the international level to stop military operations and protect human rights in Gaza.
• Requested that the Italian Government and Parliament formally recognize the State of Palestine.
• Agreed to send the motion to the President of the Council of Ministers, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the President of the Republic, and the EU Commission—representing the will of the local community.
• Committed to sharing the motion with other towns in the Molise region, inviting them to adopt similar resolutions.

The Vote

The motion was passed unanimously by the seven council members present:

• Votes in favor: 7
• Votes against: 0
• Absent: 4

The session concluded at 7:18 PM.

A Small Town with a Global Voice

While Castelbottaccio is a small village nestled in the Molise hills, the motion reflects its deep commitment to peace, justice, and the dignity of all people. In the words of the council, "even without direct authority in foreign policy, we can and must express symbolic and moral positions on behalf of the citizens we represent."

This decision is part of a growing trend among Italian municipalities to raise their voices in support of peace and human rights around the world.