Palestine human development report 1998-1999

Abstract

This Palestine Human Development Report 1998-1999, is the most comprehensive report to date on the status and needs of human development in Palestine. It examines the factors that are necessary in order to maintain positive change, and to meet the many challenges facing the establishment of a modern Palestinian state, where sustainable human development can be achieved. This Report is a report for all Palestinians. It is presented at this particular time in order to contribute to the foundation of the modern Palestinian state, and to document for history where we stand at present and what we aspire for the future. The Report represents a major effort by hundreds of researchers, experts, representatives of official and nonofficial institutions, and representatives of non governmental organizations (NGOs) and political parties for a comprehensive view of human development in Palestine. However, more specialized focused studies are now needed to provide clearly defined and detailed programs of action for each sector. This Report in itself cannot achieve the desired outcomes unless decision-makers at all levels make use of its recommendations in formulating their strategies and policies. The focus of the Report on strengthening and empowering people and institutions expresses the participatory methodology used in its preparation, in itself a reflection of the increasing cooperation between academic institutions,Palestinian National Authority (PNA) institutions, NGOs and the private sector. This cooperation was tangibly demonstrated by the extent of public participation in the workshops that were convened in all parts of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip 3(WBGS) in the course of preparing the report.