Roger Waters Speaks To The United Nations
Roger Waters waded into the world of foreign relations yesterday (Nov 29) when he addressed the United Nations. In a 25-minute speech, he spoke out against alleged violations of international law by Israel against the Palestinian people.
You're probably thinking the same thing we are: "How can Waters understand the complexities and nuances of the Middle East when he won't even make the peace with David Gilmour?" However, Waters spoke as a representative of the Russell Tribunal on Palestine, which, according to its website, deals with "different aspects of complicities and omissions by states, international organizations and corporations in the ongoing occupation of Palestinian territories by Israel and the perpetuation of the violations of international law committed by Israel." Waters joined the tribunal for its fourth session in October, and appeared in a video discussing his reasons for his support of the Palestinians.
"I'm a musician, not a diplomat," began Waters, as thousands of Pink Floyd fans nodded their heads. "I’m looking only to shed some light on the predicament of beleaguered people. The Russian Tribunal on Palestine was created to shed such light, to seek accountability for the violations of international law, and the lack of United Nations resolve that prevent the Palestinian people from achievement their inalienable rights, especially the right of self-determination.”
This marks a busy spell of humanitarian efforts from Waters. Earlier this month he appeared at the Stand Up for Heroes benefit, and on Dec. 12 he will perform at the Hurricane Sandy relief concert at Madison Square Garden, alongside Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney, the Who and many others.
Watch Roger Waters Speak to the United Nations