Throughout history the "right of return" was so universally accepted that it was not codifed until 1215, in Chapter 42 of the Magna Carta: "It shall be lawful in the future for anyone…to leave our kingdom and to return, safe and secure by land and water…."
Following World War II the right of return was further enshrined in international law when in accordance with its Charter, the United Nations adopted In accordance with the UN Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights - Article 13(2) - states: "Everyone has the right to leave any country, including his own, and return to his country." The United Nations adopted The Universal Declaration of Human Rights on 10 December 1948 (Resolution 217 A III), the day before Resolution 194 was passed. By gaining UN membership Israel agreed to abide by the terms of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and of course, the UN Charter.
I just remembered that I wrote an article on the Right of Return years ago. It can be found here:
http://www.canpalnet-ottawa.
Regards,
Gary
