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Tufts University

Publication Date

Spring 2018

Program Name

Switzerland: International Studies and Multilateral Diplomacy

Abstract

This paper studies the humanitarian crisis in the occupied Palestinian territories, focusing on the Palestinians’ short-term needs in emergency relief as well as their long-term needs regarding sustainable development, good governance, legal and physical protection. Against the backdrop of a cost/benefit analysis of the current UN humanitarian operational model, the paper then introduces new models of engagement, such the UN’s positioning itself as a mediator between the PA and the civic society throughout the implementation of a decentralized development model. Within this framework, the UN is advised to complement its engagement by facilitating negotiations towards a unified Palestinian government that incorporates the PA’s expertise in engaging the global political platform with the civic-based authority Hamas has within Palestine. The paper also proposes that the UN deploy a peace-keeping mission to help reduce the rate at which Israeli authorities and extremist settlers are pursuing a coercive environment in the WBGS. The last section of the essay highlights a reconceptualized diplomatic negotiation process spearheaded by the UN that complements its domestic operations. This reform essentially involves the expansion of the UN agenda to leverage the strategic partnerships the Gulf States, China, and Japan have with Israel and Palestine, as well as their financial powers to help sustain a viable Palestine until a settlement is reached.

Disciplines

International and Area Studies | International Relations | Near and Middle Eastern Studies | Peace and Conflict Studies

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