From Cairo to Tokyo: Can you guess these twin cities?
Summary
Hackney, a borough in east London, is asking its residents if they want to end its long-standing twinning agreement with Haifa, a city in Israel. The local council decided in July to stop the partnership because of concerns about human rights related to the conflict in Gaza. The final decision will be made after public feedback and a policy review.Key Facts
- Hackney’s twinning with Haifa began in 1968.
- The Green Party-led council voted in July 2024 to end the partnership in principle.
- The decision relates to concerns over Israel’s actions in Gaza.
- Residents can give their opinions until October 14, 2024.
- Twin or sister cities are formal links between cities in different countries to promote cultural and civic exchanges.
- Many twin city relationships started after World War II to encourage peace and reconciliation.
- Other cities have ended or suspended twin city relationships over political conflicts, such as between UK cities and Russian cities after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
- Hackney’s case reflects a wider trend of cities reviewing their international partnerships for political or ethical reasons.
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